A delegation led by BNBU President Prof Chen Zhi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and started a five-day visit from 22 to 26 February 2025, Dubai local time. The visit aimed at fostering collaborations in higher education, research, and talent cultivation. It resulted in multiple agreements with top universities and enterprises, advancing the university's internationalisation and cross-cultural engagement.
Prof Chen said that this visit has further expanded BNBU's network of cooperation in the Middle East. It would also enhance educational and cultural exchanges under the "Belt and Road" initiative, contributing wisdom and strength to global educational development.
Expanding academic collaboration
The delegation visited Abu Dhabi University, the American University of Sharjah, Middlesex University Dubai, and the University of Sharjah, discussing topics including student exchange, postgraduate training, and research partnerships.
At Abu Dhabi University, both sides agreed on multiple issues, including student exchange and postgraduate education.
Prof Chen Zhi (left) with the Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University Prof Ghaan Aouad (right)
The American University of Sharjah explored partnerships in media and communication, translation and digital humanities, artificial intelligence, data science and more, with plans to form a working group for further discussions.
Prof Chen Zhi with the Chancellor of the American University of Sharjah Dr Tod Laursen (second from left)
The President of the University of Sharjah praised BNBU's educational philosophy, with both sides expressing interest in joint doctoral programmes and student exchange.
The delegation at the University of Sharjah
Pro-Vice Chancellor Middlesex University and Director Middlesex University Dubai Prof Cedwyn Fernandes, highlighted the shared goals. "The two universities are highly aligned in cultivating global talents. Future cooperation will provide students with a broader international practical platform." The two institutions reached a preliminary consensus on faculty and student exchange and joint admissions, with plans for detailed discussions.
The delegation at the Middlesex University Dubai
Strengthening institutional and corporate partnerships
The delegation also met with key institutions and businesses. At the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, they exchanged views on educational collaboration, cultural exchange, and multi-level talent development, agreeing on initial steps for admissions and student exchange.
BNBU Associate Vice President (Teaching and Learning) Prof Huang Yu emphasised the university's commitment to open and long-term international collaboration in research, faculty exchange, and credit recognition.
Prof Huang Yu at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai
BNBU also explored industry partnerships, visiting the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Huawei Branch Office in the UAE. Discussions at DMCC focused on AI research, Chinese language talent cultivation, and China-UAE cultural exchange. Prof Chen introduced BNBU's academic strengths in AI and international Chinese education, emphasising interdisciplinary talent development.
The delegation at the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
At Huawei, the delegation learned about advancements in 5G, AI, smart cities and more. Prof Chen expressed interest in collaboration on research, student internships, and talent development, and Huawei's representatives welcomed partnerships to drive innovation and digital transformation.
The delegation at Huawei
Promoting BNBU at Dubai Chinese School
The visit included a trip to the Chinese School Dubai on 26 February, the first full-time Chinese basic education school overseas, to conduct an enrolment presentation and exchange activities. Prof Huang introduced BNBU's liberal arts philosophy and commitment to global talent development.
Engaging alums and expanding global influence
During the visit, the delegation met with UAE-based alums and expanded international recruitment efforts. At the gathering, graduates shared their career journeys. Lian Luo of the Class of 2016 recounted her transition from flight attendant to pilot, showcasing BNBU alums' resilience. Prof Chen praised their achievements and contributions to the university's global reputation.
BNBU continues to expand its global reach, now partnering with over 80 institutions worldwide. The visit strengthens ties with the UAE in education, research, and talent development, advancing the Belt and Road Initiative's educational and cultural exchange goals.
From MPRO
Reporter: Cecilia Yu
