Successful conclusion of the 2025 International Summer School at Xiangya School of Basic Medical Sciences
On July 30, 2025, the closing ceremony of 2025 International Summer School program successfully was held at Xiangya School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University. During the month-long intensive study program (July 1-30), 15 young medical scholars, researchers, and industry leaders from four continents—America, Europe, Oceania, and Africa—gathered in Changsha. Through an innovative dual-track teaching model (the "China-Africa Medical Bridge" class and the "Xiangya Digital Intelligence" class) and a three-dimensional integration approach combining theory, practice, and cultural immersion, participants gained deep insights into the "Xiangya Pathway" of modern Chinese medical development.
Harmonious Integration of Theory and Practice : Exploring Innovative Medical Frontiers
Participants systematically studied the following core theoretical topics: pathology (covering disease diagnosis and tumor heterogeneity), forensic medicine (judicial identification and forensic pathology), advanced cancer research (etiology, metabolism, and immunology), digital healthcare technologies, gene editing and sequencing (in collaboration with BGI Genomics), and point-of-care testing (POCT, in partnership with Ustar Biotechnologies). The practical sessions provided comprehensive, hands-on experience within Xiangya's entire medical schools and affiliated hospitals.
l Pathology Workflow: All fellows expereinced from tissue processing and immunohistochemistry to digital scanning and ultrastructural pathology diagnosis (electron microscopy training)
l Cutting-edge technological experiences: AI-assisted diagnosis and application of digital pathology teleconsultation systems were taught at the Pathology Department of Xiangya Hosipital. Observation of surgical robots and minimally invasive devices, along with emergency skills training were held at Xiangya Second Hospital. Clinical skills training and health management insights were taught at Xiangya Third Hospital. Exploration of assisted reproductive technologies and regenerative medicine were performed at the National Engineering Research Center for Human Stem Cells and CITIC-Xiangya Hospital of Reproduction & Hedity. All fellows were exposure to translational research at the Cancer Research Institute, Sepsis Key Laboratory, and Furong Laboratory.
l Multidisciplinary Exploration: All fellows paid visits to Xiangya-affiliated hospitals or schools (Dentistry, Dermatology, Pharmacy, Nursing), the National Functional Experiment Center (experience wearable disease simulation), the Human Morphology Specimen Museum (VR anatomy systems), the Biological Specimen Museum, and the Biomedical Engineering Laboratory showcased Xiangya’s multidisciplinary progress and innovations in medical engineering.
Participants remarked that the program was "not only a professional upgrade but also a comprehensive revelation of China’s comprehensive and dynamic healthcare system."
Cultural Immersion Fosters Friendship and Mutual Understanding
The program elements of Hunan culture and the Xiangya spirit were also thoughtfully incorporated in the summer school program. Participants traced the century-old legacy of Xiangya Medical School and its affiliated hospitals, embracing the school motto: " Public Welfare, Diligence, Precision, Humility." Cultural excursions to the Yuelu Academy and the Mawangdui Han Tomb Relics Exhibition at the Hunan Provincial Museum deepened their appreciation of China’s medical and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, team-building activities at the Changsha Africa Park served as a platform for cross-cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
Closing Ceremony: Celebrating Achievements and Launching Future Collaborations
At the closing ceremony on July 30, participants delivered insightful presentations, applauding China’s innovations in pathology (particularly AI and digital pathology platforms) and innovative healthcare. They expressed eagerness to deepen collaboration with Xiangya. Professor Li Zhihong, Vice President of Central South University, awarded certificates of completion and commended the participants’ outstanding contributions.
This International Summer School has successfully established a high-level platform for global medical exchange, showcasing Xiangya’s distinctive strengths and China’s pioneering practices in healthcare modernization. It has not only enhanced international participants’ understanding of China’s medical advancements and culture but also forged robust collaborative ties, injecting new momentum into addressing global health challenges and advancing medical progress. The international cooperation and exchange efforts of Xiangya School of Basic Medical Sciences are now poised for a broader and brighter future.
