UM rector attends China-Russia University Presidents’ Forum and visits universities in Harbin

Yonghua Song, rector of the University of Macau (UM), attended the China-Russia University Presidents’ Forum 2023, which took place within the framework of the Association of Sino-Russian Technical Universities. Presidents, experts, and scholars from prestigious universities in China and Russia gathered at the forum to discuss and exchange views on talent cultivation, cooperation in science and technology, and cultural development. UM is a member of the association, and on behalf of the member universities, Song delivered a keynote speech on talent development system towards the future. In his speech, Song shared his insights into the concept of nurturing talent for the future and presented innovative approaches to developing STEM talent in the context of emerging engineering education. He also highlighted UM’s exploratory initiatives and practical experiences in the field.

In addition, Song led a delegation to visit Harbin Institute of Technology and Harbin Engineering University, where in-depth discussions were held to enhance collaboration between universities. At Harbin Institute of Technology, the UM delegation visited the State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, the laboratory of the School of Electrical Engineering & Automation, and other research platforms. During the meeting with Harbin Institute of Technology President Han Jiecai and other representatives, Song said that following the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2022, the collaboration between the two universities in multiple STEM fields and exchange programmes has been fruitful. He expressed hope that both universities will strengthen communication and collaboration, particularly in the fields of smart manufacturing, robotics, and electrical engineering. At Harbin Engineering University, the UM delegation visited the National Key Laboratory of Underwater Robot Technology, the National Key Laboratory of Underwater Acoustic Technology, and other research platforms. The delegation had a meeting with Yao Yu, president of Harbin Engineering University, and other representatives. Both parties had in-depth discussions on enhancing academic exchanges and research collaboration in the fields of robotics, smart manufacturing, and ocean research.

Members of the UM delegation included Wang Chunming, director of the Research Services and Knowledge Transfer Office; Wang Ruibing, director of the Global Affairs Office; Ma Shaodan, associate director of the State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City; Xu Qingsong, programme coordinator of the Master of Science in Robotics and Autonomous Systems programme of the Faculty of Science and Technology; and Zhou Jiantao, professor in the State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City.