On January 13, 2025, the inaugural “Fudan-Arab League Excellence Internship Program” officially commenced at the Secretariat of the Arab League in Cairo, Egypt. The program was jointly established by Fudan University and the Arab League Secretariat, organized by the Institute of Global Public Policy (IGPP) and the Training Department of the Arab League, with support from the Fudan-Arab Research Centre for Global Development and Governance and the China-Arab Network for School of Public Policy and Administration (CANSPPA). The internship program offers Chinese university students with an opportunity to intern in various departments at the Arab League, as part of the efforts to deepen the implementation of the “Eight Major Common Actions” for China-Arab cooperation.

Following a nationwide open application process and a rigorous selection procedure, 12 students from diverse academic backgrounds were selected to participate in this two-week internship program.

The opening ceremony was attended by Hemoud Almajid, Director of the Training Department, Faisal Swedan, Deputy Director, and other officials from the Arab League. Director Almajid warmly welcomed the internship group, emphasizing the importance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the structures and mechanisms of the Arab League, experiencing the local history and culture, and appreciating the unique aspects of humanity. He also expressed hope for future visits by Arab League officials to China. Deputy Director Swedan conveyed confidence in the development of the program. The interns then introduced themselves and expressed sincere gratitude for the warm reception.

After visiting the Arab League Headquarters, the internship program was lectured by officials from the Arab League. The first lecture was delivered by Hala Gad, Director of the Department of Documents and Information. Director Gad provided a detailed introduction to the historical development, organizational structure, and the key role the Arab League has played in promoting unity and cooperation among Arab countries and resolving regional conflicts since its establishment in 1945.

The second lecture was given by Maha Gad, Director of the Department of Cultural and Civilizational Dialogue. Director Gad explored the rich cultural diversity of the Arab world, particularly the differences in language, religion, and traditions between countries. She pointed out that the cultural ties between China and the Arab world have deep historical roots, dating back to the Silk Road period.

After the lecture, a student representative presented a commemorative gift to the speakers with a group photo. Over the next two weeks, other department heads from the Arab League will continue to provide the internship group with fascinating lectures on topics such as China-Arab relations.

Based on their academic background, career development goals, and personal interests, the interns were assigned to various departments with senior Arab League officials as mentors. Additionally, the interns will visit the Chinese Embassy in Egypt to gain a deeper understanding of the current development and policy frontiers of China-Arab relations. Through rich cultural visits and dialogues with Egyptian students, the interns will also immerse themselves in social, cultural, and human environment, further enhancing their understanding of the Arab world.

This internship activity is organized and implemented by IGPP at Fudan University as the Chinese partner. As the leading institution for the China-Arab 10+10 University Cooperation Program in the field of public policy, IGPP has been actively fostering cooperation with the Arab world. Notable achievements include the joint establishment of the Fudan-Arab Research Centre for Global Development and Governance and the signing of strategic cooperation agreements with the Arab League Secretariat. IGPP also initiated the CANSPPA and organizes the annual “China-Arab Global Development and Governance Forum.” Additionally, the International Master of Public Administration (IMPA) program in IGPP enrolls mid-career officials from the Arab League annually. On November 9, 2024, the 2nd “China-Arab Global Development and Governance Forum” was held at Fudan University. During this event, both sides formally launched the “Fudan-Arab League Excellence Internship Program.”