Lanzhou University recently concluded its “Gansu Intangible Cultural Heritage English Speech Contest”, an event designed to encourage students to “tell the stories of Gansu’s intangible cultural heritage in English”. The competition attracted 52 students from more than 20 schools across the university, all demonstrating how fluent English can serve as a bridge for bringing Gansu’s cultural heritage to global audiences.

The contestants explored a wide range of intangible cultural heritage items from across Gansu. Their topics included the splendor of Dunhuang murals, the vivid charm of Qingyang shadow play, the craftsmanship of Tao inkstones(one of the four famous Chinese inkstones), and the shimmering beauty of the historic luminous cups. They also highlighted the delicacy of Longdong paper cutting, the centuries-old wisdom of Tibetan medicine, the intricate finesse of carved lacquerware, and the everyday culinary artistry behind Lanzhou beef noodles. From the melodious singing of Long Opera and the folkloric symbolism of scented sachets to the vibrant tunes of Hua’er folk songs and the richness of local legends, the presentations showcased the cultural depth and diversity of Gansu from multiple perspectives.

The contest concluded with three first prizes, six second prizes, and nine third prizes.

Speaking at the award ceremony on the 27th, Lu Xiaobing, Secretary of the CPC Committee of the School of Foreign Languages and Literatures, noted that Gansu is home to countless cultural treasures. He expressed the hope that the event would inspire students to develop a deeper understanding of the intangible heritage rooted in northwestern China, cultivate appreciation for the region’s traditional culture, and strengthen their ability to share China’s stories with the world, thereby contributing to the global promotion of “Symphony Silk Road, Picturesque Gansu”.

Organized under the guidance of the School of Foreign Languages and Literatures’ CPC Committee and hosted by the school’s Public Foreign Language Teaching Center, the competition provided students with a valuable platform for intercultural communication. It enhanced their practical English skills and ability to engage in cultural exchange, while also supporting the youth-oriented and international promotion of Gansu’s intangible cultural heritage. The event infused campus culture with distinctive regional character and new vitality, allowing the province’s millennia-old traditions to shine anew in the modern era.