Heart Sapling Visiting Scholar Program at Three: Growing Toward the World

On April 19, 2026, the Heart Sapling Visiting Scholar Program (Heart Sapling Program) celebrated the third anniversary of its official launch.

Over the past three years, this international medical talent development initiative, launched by Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University (Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital), has continuously focused on cultivating young cardiovascular specialists from BRICS countries and Belt and Road partner countries. The program has built a platform for cross-border medical exchange while promoting the sharing of high-quality healthcare resources and capacity building.

Since its official launch at the United Nations Headquarters in April 2023, the Heart Sapling Program has continuously deepened its international cooperation. In April 2024, the program was included in the Global Development Project Database of the China International Development Cooperation Agency. In July 2024, it was selected for the Achievement List of the “Action Plan for Building a Shared Future” at the Second High-Level Meeting of the Global Shared Development Action Forum, becoming a vivid example of China’s active participation in global health cooperation.

As of April 19, 2026, the program had received a total of 37 visiting scholars from 16 countries for training in China.

Relying on the high-level cardiovascular specialty platform of Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital, trainees systematically participate in theoretical education, clinical practice, case discussions, and academic exchanges under the guidance of experienced mentors. Through the program, they gain in-depth understanding of the latest advances and innovative applications in cardiovascular disease diagnosis and treatment.

After completing the training, participants bring the concepts, technologies, and experience they acquired back to the clinical frontlines in their home countries, helping improve the capabilities of their hospitals and medical teams while enabling high-quality healthcare resources to take root in broader regions.

Starting from Xiamen, crossing mountains and seas, and connecting the world.

Over the past three years, Heart Sapling has not only witnessed the growth of young physicians, but has also continuously promoted medical exchange, mutual learning, and collaborative progress between China and the world.

On the occasion of its third anniversary, a special anniversary video of the Heart Sapling Visiting Scholar Program was released to look back on this journey that transcends borders and connects lives.

Heart Sapling at Three: Growing Beyond Borders