A delegation from Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (BiUH) recently visited Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), where both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on innovation in higher education, talent cultivation models, and potential future collaboration.
This visit not only deepened mutual understanding and friendship between the two institutions, but also laid a solid foundation for future cooperation in advancing the internationalization and innovation of higher education in China.
President Jari Grosse-Ruyken introduced BiUH’s unique background and development vision, which is the first university independently run in Hainan by an overseas university, with a focus on disciplines such as science, engineering, agriculture, and medicine. He emphasized BiUH’s mission of being rooted in China while having a global outlook. The university is committed to adopting the “practice-integrated” dual-education model of German universities of applied sciences, which integrates academic learning with real-world business practice. Under this model, students spend a substantial amount of time working on actual projects in companies during their studies. This ensures a seamless integration of knowledge and skills, fostering innovation, hands-on abilities, and a global perspective among students. The goal is to cultivate high-level, application-oriented, and interdisciplinary talent aligned with the needs of economic and social development.
During the meeting, XJTLU leadership extended a warm welcome to the visiting delegation. They gave a comprehensive introduction to the university’s journey in Sino-foreign cooperative education, its distinctive educational philosophy, and the significant achievements it has made. Professor Xi Youmin, Executive President of XJTLU, shared successful experiences in integrating the strengths of Eastern and Western education, building an international teaching environment, and promoting the deep integration of industry, academia, and research.
Professor Chao Qiuling, Party Secretary and Vice President of XJTLU, elaborated on the university’s innovative approaches and practices in terms of institutional development, student-centered education, and academic achievements. Both parties agreed that, in the context of accelerating globalization and technological change, higher education institutions bear the crucial responsibility of cultivating innovative talents and driving social progress.
The two sides also exchanged views on topics of mutual interest, such as campus construction and management, faculty development, research collaboration, student mobility, and how universities can better serve regional economic and social development.
This visit was not only a productive inter-university exchange, but also a valuable opportunity for sharing ideas and insights. Both institutions expressed a strong desire to further enhance communication and deepen cooperation in the future. They aim to jointly nurture more globally minded and innovative talents and contribute to national strategies and regional growth.
