Spanish students tour the campus of Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU) in Pingshan District. Photos courtesy of SZTU

About 40 students and faculty members from the Euncet Business School of the Polytechnic University of Catalonia are taking part in a two-week summer program organized by Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU) in Pingshan District. Running until July 8, the program includes academic lectures, visits to leading companies like BYD, and cultural tours to landmarks such as Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville.

Spanish students visit Shenzhen Technology University.

Spanish students share a light moment during their campus tour at Shenzhen Technology University.

For many of the students, this marks their first visit to both Shenzhen and China. Arnau Claret and Alex Serrano said they didn’t hesitate when they learned about the opportunity. “We’ve always wanted to explore China, and when this chance came up, we jumped at it,” said Claret.  

Both Claret and Serrano were particularly impressed by Shenzhen’s driverless cars, the city’s cleanliness, and the expansive SZTU campus. “The campus of SZTU is huge compared to ours, and the facilities — from the gym to the library — are excellent. I really like it,”said Serrano.

Paula Vaquerizo Cruces said that before visiting Shenzhen and China, she only knew them from movies. But upon arrival, she saw that everything is impressive.

Students and faculty from Euncet Business School and Shenzhen Technology University pose for a photo at a canteen at Shenzhen Technology University.

Rita de Cássia Baptista Pereira, a third-year university student, was amazed by the driverless cars and food delivery drones. “These are new to me. I have never seen anything like it before,” she said. “The city strikes a perfect balance between technology and culture. There are stunning modern buildings, as well as places preserving traditional heritage.” After this experience, Pereira said she would consider returning to Shenzhen for travel or study if future opportunities arise.  

Antonio Llop Padilla, president of Euncet Business School, said his impression of Shenzhen exceeded expectations. Though it’s his first visit, he has been familiar with Shenzhen’s reputation as a rapidly growing tech hub. “The city is highly developed in terms of technology, sustainability, and urban mobility,” he remarked.  

Students and faculty from Euncet Business School pose for a photo at Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville.

In March 2024, SZTU signed a cooperation agreement with Euncet Business School, marking its first partnership with a Spanish higher education institution.

Padilla emphasized the value of this collaboration. “Bilateral cooperation enhances the learning experience for students from both Barcelona and Shenzhen. Given the high quality of SZTU’s faculty, we truly appreciate this alliance, which helps our students grow and achieve more,” said Padilla.