BXAI Summer Program
The BXAI Summer Program 2024 was held from August 3 to 18 in partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University. 64 Bai Xian Scholars from the 2023 cohort gathered for an immersive and enriching two weeks together as they explored the theme “Digital Transformation in Asia,” examining how digital technologies have driven social change in Asia as they become increasingly integrated into various aspects of society such as business, government, law, finance, and everyday life.
The program kicked off with team building activities and a three-day excursion to unique sights in the vicinity of Shanghai, where participants enjoyed time to experience the history and culture of China while forming friendships with one another early on in the program. A series of soft skills workshops and seminars followed, as well as two academic sessions examining key topics surrounding Asia’s digital transformation such as generative AI, smart city development, and AI in finance. The weekend featured a brand-new city tour activity titled, “Bai Xian Shang-highlights”, which exposed students to the various facets of Shanghai’s history, culture, and development.
Towards the end of the Summer Program, scholars enjoyed an opportunity to connect with the BX community at a “Coffee & Chat” session with members of BXAI’s leadership, and an alumni evening with former scholars from previous cohorts. They then concluded their learning journey by taking part in final group presentations, a leadership-themed keynote lecture, and a closing ceremony. The Summer Program drew to an official close at the gala dinner, a signature event that took on new meaning this year as the BX community gathered to not only celebrate the completion of the ninth Summer Program, but also to commemorate BXAI’s 10th anniversary.
The annual BXAI Summer Program is held every August and gathers current Bai Xian Scholars on one university campus for a fun and enriching experience designed to broaden perspectives, foster community, and extend learning beyond the classroom.
The BXAI Summer Program is an important component of the Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP). Designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, the summer program aims to provide scholars with a unique opportunity to explore important topics, build community, and develop 21st-century skills in an immersive and engaging setting. Through exchanges with influential global leaders, panel presentations, debates, and skill-building workshops, scholars are able to broaden their perspectives and develop a greater understanding of important issues that relate to Asia and its role in the changing global landscape. In addition, field trips, workshops, and special tours allow scholars to experience the local culture and customs of the host country, while various experiential activities provide opportunities for scholars to form treasured friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.