Zhejiang University strengthens ties with Singaporean universities

From July 14 to 17, a delegation led by WU Jian, Vice President of Zhejiang University, paid a productive visit to Singapore, fostering robust partnerships with key academic institutions. The delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), the National University of Singapore (NUS), and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) on critical topics ranging from undergraduate education to green low-carbon and sustainable campus building and logistics management.

At the Singapore University of Technology and Design, the delegation met with Prof Ricky Ang Lay Kee, Associate Prof LIU Xiaogang, Director of the SUTD Honours and Research Programme (SHARP), Corinna Choong, Senior Director for Sustainability, and Evelyn Tan, Director of International Relations. The discussions centered on sustainable development in higher education, campus management, honors degree programs, and the enhancement of teaching facilities. Since the signing of a cooperation agreement in 2010, Zhejiang University and the Singapore University of Technology and Design have bolstered their ties through faculty and student exchanges, curriculum development, and joint research. Both institutions eagerly anticipate further deepening their collaboration to nurture top-notch innovative talent and advance sustainable development goals.

Later, the delegation visited the National University of Singapore, where they received a warm reception from Professor Peter HO, Vice Provost (Undergraduate Studies & Technology-Enhanced Learning), and officials from University Campus Infrastructure. Discussions focused on the strategic development and future campus planning of both universities. Emphasizing their mutual commitment to global sustainability, the parties pledged to leverage their respective strengths in educational and research innovation, green infrastructure renovation, and sustainable operational practices.

At Nanyang Technological University, the delegation engaged in discussions with Professor Jesvin Yeo, Deputy Provost (Strategy), Alfred Cheng, Director of the Office of Development & Facilities Management, and Brian Tan, Director of the Office of Campus Housing. They exchanged insights on educational operations, green campus construction, campus spaces and logistics support. Central to the talks was the exploration of strategies to enhance environmental sustainability and integrate AI into undergraduate education. The visit also included a tour of Gaia, renowned as Asia’s largest wooden building designed for zero-energy consumption.

Additionally, the delegation met with the Singapore ZJU Alumni Association and the Zhejiang Commercial Representative Office in Singapore. Discussions with alumni and business representatives highlighted mutual interests in advancing educational and developmental goals, reflecting on shared experiences and future prospects.

The visit underscored Zhejiang University’s commitment to forging lasting partnerships with leading global institutions, marking a significant step toward advancing collaborative efforts in education and sustainable development.