Zhejiang University and University of Alberta further strengthen ties by renewing MoU

On the morning of May 8, Verna Yiu, provost and vice-president (academic) at the University of Alberta, Canada, led a delegation on a tour of Zhejiang University. The visit, aimed at reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two institutions, was marked by a warm reception from ZHOU Jianghong, vice president of Zhejiang University. The meeting was attended by key representatives from the Office of Global Engagement and the School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Zhejiang University.

ZHOU Jianghong extended his heartfelt welcome to Verna Yiu and her delegation. He provided the distinguished guests with an overview of Zhejiang University’s latest developments in talent cultivation, disciplinary construction, and global engagement. He applauded the 25-year history of successful collaboration between the two universities, expressing eagerness to enhance strategic communication, expand cooperation in education and research, and promote the sustained development of this partnership.

In response, Verna Yiu expressed her enthusiasm for future collaborative ventures and highlighted the University of Alberta’s 10-year strategic plan and research priorities. She acknowledged Zhejiang University as the University of Alberta’s most important strategic partner in China. The institutions have engaged in fruitful exchanges and research collaborations across various fields, yielding substantial results and showing great potential for future endeavors. Verna Yiu reaffirmed the University of Alberta’s dedication to strengthening this bond, leveraging multidisciplinary expertise, and jointly addressing global challenges.

During the meeting, ZHOU Jianghong and Verna Yiu formalized their commitment by signing a new memorandum of understanding on behalf of their respective institutions. Huang Cen, vice provost and associate vice-president (international) at the University of Alberta, and LI Min, director of the Office of Global Engagement at Zhejiang University, each presented their strategic priorities and corresponding initiatives. FAN Liwu, vice dean of the School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, engaged in a fruitful dialogue with the visiting delegation, sharing insights and perspectives on Zhejiang University’s approach to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in education.