Fudan University in Shanghai is exploring more innovative ways to promote the development of Confucius Institutes in overseas countries.

"We hope that each institute will have its own distinguishing features," said Li Lin, a teacher from Fudan University, who is in charge of the university's Confucius Institutes project.

Since 2005, Fudan University, under the guidance of Hanban, the Confucius Institutes headquarters, has joined in the establishment of Confucius Institutes by cooperating with overseas universities. So far, the university has helped establish seven Confucius Institutes abroad.

"Over the past years, we have established different development models suitable for each Confucius Institute's conditions. We held the first young Sinologists forum in the Confucius Institute at the University of Frankfurt, Germany, that involved topics of politics, history, culture and language teaching," Li said.

More China-themed activities combined with local interests are expected to be held in the future.

Last week, more than 50 foreign directors of Confucius Institutes finished a 10-day training program at Fudan University, which included the study of Chinese, Chinese philosophy and culture.

Li said an online platform for the directors is also planned as a way to strengthen their communications.

Data from Hanban shows there are 429 Confucius Institutes and another 629 Confucius Classrooms in operation around the world, spanning 115 countries and regions. Another 500 overseas institutions are on a waiting list to host the group.