When the China-Laos Railway opened in 2021, it didn’t just bridge mountains and rivers – it sparked a new era of opportunity. Meet Souliya and Khamla, two aspiring engineers from Laos whose lives took a thrilling detour when they boarded scholarships to study in the Chinese mainland. 🎓✨
From Vientiane to Beijing: Culture as Compass
\"I grew up watching Chinese dramas subtitled in Lao,\" laughs Souliya, 21, while demonstrating her newfound love for xiaolongbao soup dumplings. \"Now I’m learning AI robotics at Tsinghua University – something my village never dreamed possible.\"
Beyond the Classroom
Both students emphasize how weekend hikes along the Great Wall and late-night hotpot sessions shaped their perspectives as much as lectures. Khamla, 23, notes: \"We’re not just learning tech skills – we’re becoming cultural translators who can build partnerships.\"
The Road Ahead
With graduation approaching, the duo plans to return home and contribute to Laos’ digital infrastructure. As Khamla puts it: \"This railway carries more than cargo – it’s a corridor for dreams.\" 🌱💡
