Recently, Beijing University of Chemical Technology’s (BUCT) short-term academic exchange initiatives—the “Spring Seedling Program” and “Doctoral Research Program”—concluded successfully. A 108-member delegation, comprising undergraduates, master’s students, and doctoral candidates, traveled to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore for a short-term academic exchange from September 18 to 22. They have now returned to campus, enriched by valuable academic insights, cultural experiences, and inter-university friendships. This initiative, jointly launched by the International Exchange and Cooperation Department, the Academic Affairs Office, and the Graduate School, centered on “academic immersion, practical exploration, and cultural engagement.” It established a comprehensive development platform, effectively broadening students’ global perspectives and enhancing their academic and cultural communication capabilities. It marks a significant step for BUCT in cultivating globally competent talent.
I. Cutting-edge Courses Laying a Solid Academic Foundation
Students actively participated in the specially designed lecture series at NTU, which featured cutting-edge academic courses and industry case studies on innovation and entrepreneurship, including Approaches and Strategies for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education in Singapore, Developing and Enhancing Scientific Research Capabilities, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and Leadership in a Global Context. The “Distinguished Speaker Lecture Series” further featured renowned experts who shared their insights and achievements, broadening students’ academic horizons.
II. Study Tour to a Government Agency: Bridging Theory and Practice
Students visited the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) of Singapore, where they observed firsthand the city’s internationally advanced urban planning and governance models. Through this visit, they gained a direct understanding of how theory informs practice, deepening their grasp of the real-world application of their academic knowledge.
III. Alumni Insights: Lighting the Way for Future Generations with the Wisdom of Experience
BUCT invited several alumni working or studying in Singapore to share their experiences on topics including academic research, career development, and cross-cultural adaptation. The alumni expressed deep affection and warm wishes for their alma mater, stating that “it is particularly heartwarming to see fellow BUCTers, and we are honored and delighted to share experiences and support the development of the next generation.” They also wished that “our alma mater will achieve fruitful results in talent cultivation, continue to advance its internationalization, and reach new heights.”
IV. Cultural Exchange and Interpersonal Bonds: Fostering Warm Inter-university Friendships
Students visited the Singapore Chinese Heritage Centre, where they gained a profound understanding of the pioneering journey and cultural legacy of the Chinese community in Singapore through extensive historical materials and exhibitions. While exploring the city, they experienced Singapore’s multicultural vibrancy. At the end of the program, they received specially prepared gifts and heartfelt messages from their professors, all serving as testaments to the transnational friendships.
V. Students’ Voices: Growth and Gratitude
NTU held a closing ceremony and conferred certificates of completion upon the participating students. During the ceremony, student representatives from each college delivered remarks, expressing their sincere gratitude for the strong support, meticulous organization, and thoughtful logistical arrangements provided by both universities. They also extended heartfelt thanks to NTU professors for generously sharing their expertise and to their peers for their companionship throughout the program. The students cherished this valuable exchange experience, which inspired and enlightened them regarding their life direction and goals.
This program has not only effectively enhanced students’ academic and critical thinking abilities as well as cross-cultural adaptability, but also served as a bridge for BUCT and NTU to explore future in-depth cooperation including joint curriculum development, collaborative research, and faculty and student exchanges, laying a solid foundation for long-term educational partnership between the two institutions.
In the future, BUCT will continue to build on the “Spring Seedling Program” and “Doctoral Research Program” to expand partnerships with globally renowned universities, strengthen ties with overseas alumni, and build a multi-dimensional platform that integrates academic exchanges, practical experience, and alumni support, helping cultivate more globally-minded talent and elevate the university’s international talent cultivation to new heights. The delegation was led by Chen Yansheng, Deputy Director of the Changping Campus Office; Zhang Rui, Deputy Director of the Domestic Cooperation and Exchange Office; Zhang Jiafu from the International Exchange and Cooperation Department; Liu Chunmei from the Office of Academic Affairs; Lin Ziyu from the Graduate Affairs Office of the CPC BUCT Committee; and student advisors from the Student Affairs Office of the CPC BUCT Committee.