I. A Dream Realized, A Journey Begins

In recent years, China has emerged as a top destination for a growing number of African students. For many young Africans, studying in China is more than a strategic decision; it's a transformative journey of personal and professional development. Beyond generous scholarship opportunities, China offers world-class education in engineering, medicine, geological sciences, and economics, underpinned by its remarkable economic growth and technological advancements. China's diverse cultural environment also affords international students rich and meaningful cultural immersion. While the journey comes with its share of unexpected challenges, these obstacles help students improve language skills and broaden their perspectives. For many African students, this experience is a key that unlocks opportunities on the global stage and builds a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to contribute to their home countries' development. After earning my master's degree from the Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny (UFHB, formerly known as Université de Cocody) in Côte d'Ivoire, I aspired to pursue further studies in an environment with a strong academic focus and abundant research resources. In July 2020, I was honored to receive a Chinese government doctoral scholarship to pursue my Ph.D. at China University of Geosciences (Wuhan). This opportunity marks a significant step in my academic career and offers a valuable chance to deepen my understanding of Chinese culture, to gain expertise, and eventually contribute to my country's growth.

My interest in mineral resources developed gradually during my studies and early career. My academic passion was ignited by the complex mechanisms behind mineral discovery and their significant impact on a nation's socioeconomic development. Côte d'Ivoire, rich in diverse mineral resources, holds approximately 35% of the West African greenstone belt, featuring ample deposits of gold, diamonds, manganese, and nickel. I have always been convinced that the scientifically sound and rational development of these resources could create immense opportunities for my country's growth.

Given this, China became my ideal study destination. Chinese universities boast an excellent international reputation in geological sciences and technology, with a proven track record of impressive research achievements. My first exposure to Chinese people came during my work at KASSA GOLD SA in Côte d'Ivoire, where I had the chance to work alongside Chinese partners. Their rigorous work ethic, strong technical skills, and cultural openness solidified my desire to study in China. This experience gave me firsthand insight into their highly efficient work style and strengthened my resolve to pursue my academic ambitions in the country.

II. Taking the First Brave Step

Embarking on my journey to China was a major turning point in my life. It marked not only the beginning of my study abroad experience but also a gateway to a much broader world. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse myself in an ancient and profound Eastern civilization distinguished by rich traditions and unique wisdom. I was about to embark on a journey to understand, respect, and ultimately fall in love with a new culture. So, when I received the scholarship admission letter, I was overcome with excitement and joy. It had always been my dream to pursue advanced studies in a country like China, renowned for its strong higher education system and rich cultural diversity. However, beneath the excitement, there was a deep sense of sadness and anxiety, especially about leaving my beloved daughter. She is the center of my universe, and the thought of being so far away from her for an extended period was truly heartbreaking.

Leaving my home country for a place with a completely different culture felt like stepping into the unknown. The preparations, from securing my visa to booking my flight, took a full month. The high price of the airline tickets, significantly more than I had anticipated, added considerable financial pressure. Furthermore, the global COVID-19 pandemic and China's strict containment measures at the time heightened my anxiety about the life awaiting me. The pandemic not only disrupted the global economy but also made studying abroad in China far more challenging. As a student with modest financial means, I knew I would face many obstacles. However, the greatest challenge was overcoming my own anxiety. This was my first time leaving my home country, my first time being away from my family for so long, and my first time truly stepping out of my comfort zone into a new environment. I was a mix of both fear and excitement. I was driven by one strong belief: that through dedicated study and hard work, I would acquire the knowledge and skills to return home and contribute to my country's development. This conviction became a powerful force, helping me overcome my fears and anxiety. On the day of my departure, I bid a tearful, painful farewell to my friends, family, and my hometown. I knew the journey ahead would be difficult, but I was confident this experience would ultimately shape me into a more mature and resilient person. I was ready to embrace this new chapter with a fresh perspective.

Franck and his family in Africa

III. Stepping into a Whole-New World

Due to the pandemic, I was only able to travel to Wuhan two years after receiving my scholarship. On November 16, 2022, I officially arrived in Wuhan and began my Ph.D. program at China University of Geosciences. Stepping onto unfamiliar soil, I was immediately struck by the profound cultural differences. I quickly realized that daily life in China is governed by rules and social norms—from how people greet each other and the etiquette of using chopsticks to the importance of respecting elders. I was largely unaware of these cultural nuances before my arrival, and every interaction felt like a unique cultural exploration. I had to constantly adjust my actions and words, learning and reflecting continuously. Fortunately, I was met with incredible kindness from the moment I arrived. The support from my classmates and the staff at the International Student Affairs Office was invaluable, making me feel welcome and secure. They helped me with enrollment procedures, showed me around the campus, and guided me as I adjusted to the new rhythms of academic and social life. Their assistance was pivotal in helping me navigate my first steps as a student in China.

Over time, I started to further explore this unfamiliar yet vibrant city. Wuhan's urban landscape seamlessly blends modernity and tradition: towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and tranquil parks coexist in harmony. Every corner felt new and fascinating, with each neighborhood possessing its own unique charm. In my daily life, I slowly began to appreciate the richness and diversity of Chinese culture—from the lively street scenes and the serene gardens to regulars eating and chatting in noodle shops. Each of these moments left a lasting impression on me.

Initially, the language barrier posed a significant challenge, but it also sparked my strong desire to learn Chinese. I was eager to better understand the country and form genuine connections. Mastering the language not only eased my daily life but also unlocked a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture. Of course, living abroad also brought financial pressures. In China not many part-time work opportunities are  available for international students, forcing me to budget meticulously and plan expenses carefully. I learned to be financially disciplined, finding ways to save money without compromising my quality of life. This process helped me adapt to life in China and taught me valuable financial management and self-discipline skills that will benefit me for years to come.

Franck at China University of Geosciences (Wuhan)

About the Author

Franck Désiré GOGNAN (Chinese name: 郭浩勇) , from Côte d'Ivoire, is currently a Ph.D. candidate in geology at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan). He specialized in mineralogy, petrology, and mineral deposits. His research focuses on using methods like trace elements, stable isotopes, and fluid inclusions to analyze the formation of ore deposits, the origin of mineralizing fluids, and the source of ore-forming materials. He also applies machine learning to geochemically identify and classify pyrite and sphalerite within SEDEX-type deposits.

Franck's exceptional professional skills have been widely recognized. He was named The Best Mineral Exploration Geological Engineer in Côte d’Ivoire by KASSA GOLD SA. He has also excelled in the "Tripartite Symposium"—a collaborative event involving universities, mining authorities, and industry companies in Côte d’Ivoire. Furthermore, his outstanding potential and international vision were acknowledged in China with the award of “The Third C-STAR African Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program”.