On November 21, the 2024 International Conference on the Cooperation and Integration of Industry, Education, Research, and Application (Tianjin)was held at the Tianjin Convention and Exhibition Center. Hosted by Tianjin University, the event brought together over 300 experts, scholars, and representatives from universities and enterprises across more than 20 countries and regions. Key leaders from the Ministry of Education, Tianjin, Henan, and Shanxi provinces also participated.

Yang Dan, Director of the Department of International Cooperation and Exchange at the Ministry of Education, highlighted the global significance of fostering platforms for industry-education-research collaboration. He emphasized the timeliness of enhancing international cooperation, given the ongoing technological revolution and the restructuring of global industrial and supply chains. Yang called for the creation of an inclusive and mutually beneficial innovation ecosystem, promoting deeper integration between education, talent development, and industry to contribute to a shared future for humanity.

During the opening ceremony, key figures such as Tang Zhiping the Vice Governor of Shanxi Province, Song Zhenghui the Vice Governor of Henan Province, and Markus Vitzthum, CEO of the École Hôtelière de Lausanne Group, delivered speeches underscoring the importance of international collaboration in science and technology.

Chen Shizhong, Deputy Secretary-General of the Tianjin Municipal Government, noted Tianjin's achievements in scientific innovation and talent cultivation, driven by strategic initiatives such as the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. He expressed Tianjin’s commitment to fostering deeper global cooperation in industry and education, accelerating technological advancements, and translating research into practical applications.

The conference also featured a series of unveiling ceremonies and project signings, reflecting tangible progress in fostering international partnerships. Experts, including Professor Gu Peihua from the Canadian Academy of Engineering, Professor He Guowei from the French National Academy of Medicine, and industry leaders, shared insights and experiences on enhancing cooperation across sectors.

Supported by the Ministry of Education’s School Planning and Construction Development Center, this conference has, over seven years, facilitated critical discussions and collaborations among global universities, research institutions, and enterprises. It continues to drive breakthroughs in core technologies, strengthen innovation capabilities, and enhance industrial competitiveness, contributing to the internationalization of Chinese higher education.

By: Zang Yifan

Editor: Qin Mian