The 2026 Sino-German Medical Summer School, marking the third consecutive year of the Sino-German Academic Exchange Week for Medical Students, recently concluded in Shanghai. Hosted by Tongji University School of Medicine and organized by Shanghai East Hospital, this year’s program brought together 30 medical students and 23 faculty members from six premier German institutions, including the University of Bonn, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, the University of Cologne and the University of Marburg. Through academic presentations, hands-on interactions and field visits, participants gained first-hand insights into the local healthcare system, from medical innovation to community outreach initiatives that promote public well-being.
Academic Presentations Focus on Emerging Medical Innovations
The two-week program featured 31 academic presentations covering research fields in AI and medicine, surgical robotics, medical big data, and virtual and augmented reality in medical education. Highlighted as a primary showcase of China’s progress in medical AI, Med-Go—a clinician-led large language model developed at Shanghai East Hospital that integrates medical literature and clinical guidelines into specialized healthcare applications—captivated German participants throughout the program. With Chinese and German experts taking turns to deliver presentations, the academic sessions fostered in-depth discussion on a range of medical topics.
According to the program overview, Sino-German medical talent cultivation is moving beyond routine student exchanges toward deeper institutional ties, driven by joint research initiatives and dual-degree frameworks.
Community Visits Spotlight Grassroots Well-Being
Compared with previous years, this year’s field visits adopted a more structured, research-oriented approach. A dedicated session introduced China’s health insurance system, including its funding, coverage and the respective roles of community health centers and tertiary hospitals.
In Yangpu District, participants visited a residential community first built in the 1950s, where many homes once lacked private indoor toilets and basic amenities. Following complete reconstruction, the community now offers substantially improved living conditions, enabling residents to return to upgraded homes without additional financial burdens. Participants also visited a senior canteen, an elder-friendly activity center, and a restful habitat garden developed on the site of a once-neglected ornamental pond. These visits showcased local efforts to improve housing, elder care and the community environment. Grid-based management, residents’ consultative meetings and volunteer services further illustrated how grassroots Party organizations foster community participation and local governance. “Walking through the community gave us a direct feel for everyday life here, where local residents truly enjoy peaceful and fulfilling lives.” said a German exchange student during the visit.
Student Exchanges Foster Lasting Connections
For the first time, the program debuted dedicated student-led presentation sessions. Student Representatives from Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the University of Bonn shared insights into differences between Chinese and German medical curricula, balancing academic and personal life, and research opportunities during clinical placements. Their experiences offered practical guidance for Chinese students preparing for exchanges in Germany.
The program also highlighted Tongji’s Sino-German Experimental Class in Clinical Medicine—established in 2021 with six enrolled cohorts and two full cohorts having completed study visits in Germany. Beyond academics, Chinese and German faculty and students took part in cultural and sports activities, bonding over a Mid-Autumn Festival lantern-making workshop as well as a friendly badminton match.
“Out of curiosity, we came; Enriched by friendship, we return.” a German exchange student said when reflecting on the group learning outcomes.
The enduring benefits and far-reaching impact of the program will continue to unfold. Uwe Koch, Science and Education Counselor at the German Consulate General in Shanghai, encouraged Chinese and German youth to build genuine connections through their shared experiences. Evelyn Korn, Vice President of the University of Marburg, cited a famous German quote, “Fremd ist der Fremde nur in der Fremde,” reflecting on 35 years of collaboration with Tongji University—a journey of fostering mutual understanding, enriching both sides, and promoting shared growth.
Looking ahead to Tongji University’s 120th anniversary in 2027, ZHENG Jialin, Dean of Tongji University School of Medicine, and XU Meidong, President of Shanghai East Hospital, both expressed their firm commitment to expanding open and inclusive Sino-German medical collaboration.
