WINDHOEK, Sept. 20 (Xinhua) -- A group of 12 Namibian students aged between 13 and 16 departed on Saturday for a 10-day educational excursion to China aimed at exposing them to scientific innovation and cultural exchange.

The program, titled "Nuclear Energy Lights Up Dreams, Friendship Bridges the Future," is sponsored by Rossing Uranium, purchased by China Nuclear Uranium Corporation (CNUC) Namibia Mining Limited. It seeks to introduce the students to advances in science and technology while deepening mutual understanding between the two countries.

At a pre-departure event in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, the students expressed their excitement about the journey, which will take them to several Chinese cities -- Beijing, Tongliao, Zhangzhou, and Xiamen -- combining scientific exploration with cultural immersion.

"I mostly want to learn more about nuclear energy. I really want to make a notebook just full of notes about nuclear energy because that topic is really fun," said Benjamin Jacobus, a Grade 7 learner from Oshakati in northern Namibia, who also looked forward to visiting iconic sites such as the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and the Forbidden City.

Fifteen-year-old Berlize Ria Fuls said she was eager to explore science, cultural differences, and uranium. "I one day hope I can work with one of you, or every one of you. So, thank you very much for this opportunity," she added.

Another participant, Hella Kalola, said she hoped to "explore the rich culture of the country" and experience its modern infrastructure. "I hope to experience diverse traditions and art forms and taste authentic Chinese cuisine... I also want to witness the high-speed train," she said.

Susan Zhang, manager of public relations at CNUC Namibia Mining Limited, noted that the study tour also reflects corporate citizenship.

The initiative "demonstrates our shared commitment to corporate social responsibility, as well as strong support for education and youth development across Namibia," Zhang noted, urging the students to approach the journey with open minds and to become "a lasting bridge of friendship between Namibia and China."

The initiative follows Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's recent call for skills development to prepare the country for a nuclear-powered future. In August, Rossing Uranium also sponsored three Namibian students to pursue master's degrees in nuclear energy in China.

Rossing Uranium, Namibia's largest operating open-pit uranium mine, employed 871 people by the end of 2024, most of them Namibian. ■