From November 3 to 8, SUSTech Vice President for Global Strategies, Professor Li Jin, was invited to join a distinguished delegation of 15 leading Chinese universities organized by the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE). This high-level delegation traveled to Ottawa, Canada’s capital, to participate in the 2024 Annual Conference of the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE 2024). At the conference's China Spotlight Session, Li Jin delivered a keynote speech, "Navigating Change: Evolving Policies and Trends in China’s Higher Education."

>>Jacques Frémont, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ottawa, welcomes the Chinese university delegation.

Li Jin's keynote speech highlighted China’s commitment to advancing education, science, and innovation over the past decade, solidifying its role as a burgeoning global innovation hub. As China shifts from traditional growth models to an emphasis on sustainable, innovation-driven economic growth, its educational development is becoming increasingly integrated with other sectors to support the national innovation ecosystem. 

Professor Jin shared insights into China’s progressive opening of its educational sector to international collaboration, fostering a more diverse and proactive environment for educational exchange. China’s approach emphasizes alignment with global trends, adaptability to new technologies, and the cultivation of globally competent talent. Flourishing initiatives like "Study in China" enhance cross-cultural understanding by welcoming students from around the world to learn from and engage with China. China’s higher education sector is increasingly involved in global governance and multilateral educational cooperation, particularly through its support for the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. He highlighted the major global scientific initiative, the Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (ONCE) project, led by Chinese scientists with active participation from SUSTech, as a key example.

Professor Jin noted that, despite current challenges in the international environment, the complementary strengths of China and Canada offer promising potential for mutual benefits in education and research. Canada’s excellence in research, sustainability, and employability-focused education aligns well with China’s robust industrial infrastructure and expansive market for technological applications. This synergy, he observed, creates significant opportunities for students and scholars from both nations.

>>Engaging in discussion with Jacques Beauvais, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) of the University of Ottawa.

Looking ahead, Professor Jin advocated for expanding collaboration between China and Canada in innovation, entrepreneurship, and student exchange, with a particular focus on joint training programs. He introduced SUSTech’s "Study at SUSTech: Global Youth Visiting Project," inviting Canadian students to participate in exchange programs in China, where they can deepen cultural understanding and forge connections across borders.

CBIE Annual Conference

Established in 1966, the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) advances global education and supports institutions worldwide. For decades, CBIE has led scholarship and support programs, advocated for international student rights, and influenced education policy. Its Annual Conference, held over 50 times since 1967, gathers educators, policymakers, and researchers globally to share insights, build partnerships, and promote international cooperation in education.