International students from Zhejiang University of Science and Technology take a group photo at an administrative service center in Xihu district. [Photo/zust.edu.cn]

A group of 12 international students from Zhejiang University of Science and Technology in Hangzhou recently paid a visit to a local administrative service center to experience the speed and efficiency of the local government in streamlining public services.

Focused on deepening international students' understanding of China's administrative services system, the trip included a detailed introduction to the basic procedures of handling entry and exit certificates, which cover filling documents, taking identification photos, as well as paying fees.

The students praised the efficiency of the center handling over 100,000 certificates every year, as well as the kind and easy-going nature of its staff members.

The students were also introduced to the idea of "At Most One Visit," which was first raised by the Zhejiang government a few years ago and has spread across China, literally meaning that the public can manage their affairs within at most one visit to local administrative service centers, opposed to the traditional system of dealing with such procedures in multiple trips and in different places.

Kasonde Chileshe, a student from Zambia, said that the trip was awe-inspiring as it has broadened his perspective and raised his appreciation of the administration of the Chinese government.

Arron Salimu from Zambia was most impressed by finding that citizens in Hangzhou can freely give their suggestions on how to run their district. "If you ask me, there's no better way to govern the people by letting them take part in system making," he said.

International students learn about China's simplified administrative services. [Photo/WeChat account: pinganxihu]