Chunhui Lecture Series | Zhao Ronghui: Country and Area Studies and the New Development of Foreign Language Disciplines

On the afternoon of March 14, Professor Zhao Ronghui from Shanghai International Studies University was invited to a keynote speech for the “Chunhui Lecture Series” held by the School of Foreign Languages. Her speech, entitled “Country and Area Studies and New Development of Foreign Language Disciplines”, was delivered in Conference Room 290. The lecture provides an in-depth analysis of the disciplinary connotations, development paths of Country and Area Studies, and their profound integration with foreign language disciplines against the backdrop of globalization. The lecture was hosted by Vice Dean Liu Jiaji.

In addition to the faculty and students from the School of Foreign Languages, this lecture also attracted attention from the School of Mechanical Engineering, School of Construction Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, School of Materials Science, School of Science, School of Education, School of Environment, School of Intelligent Computing, and School of Future Technology. The venue was filled to capacity.

During the lecture, Professor Zhao Ronghui began by reviewing the development trajectory of Country and Area Studies, elaborating on its history and fundamental concepts. She emphasized the strong connection between Country and Area Studies and foreign language disciplines, stating that historical opportunities and contemporary requirements are jointly fueling the growth of Country and Area Studies. Professor Zhao pointed out that the increased attention given to Country and Area Studies over the past decade or so, as an academic tool to understand the world, is an inevitable outcome of the profound adjustments in globalization and the national strategic transformation. When exploring the relationship between the two, Professor Zhao noted that while foreign language disciplines and Country and Area Studies intersect, they are not identical; rather, they are closely linked and inseparable. Regarding the integration and development strategy, Professor Zhao pointed out that there are differences in the nature and types of language skills required for Country and Area Studies. The integration of these two fields should not only align with their respective characteristics and development requirements but also identify its characteristic orientation. Moreover, Professor Zhao stressed that Country and Area Studies necessitate the collaborative efforts of multiple disciplines such as economics and sociology, and the establishment of an integrated governance system to acquire and generate comprehensive global knowledge.

Professor Zhao’s lecture is detailed and accurate, offering a comprehensive interpretation of the new development in Country and Area Studies and foreign language disciplines, from theoretical perspectives to practical examples. It deepened participants’ understanding of the significance of Country and Area Studies for the evolution of foreign language disciplines in the new era, proving high inspiration for disciplinary development and academic research.

During the Q&A session, the faculty and students engaged in lively discussions with Professor Zhao, aligning with the university’s “Interdisciplinary Dialogue” initiative. Topics included the positioning of Foreign Language and Literature and Country and Area Studies, key development directions, and the cultivation of interdisciplinary talent, creating an enthusiastic and dynamic exchange.