From September 17 to 18, 2024, a five-member delegation from Bath Spa University (BSU) visited Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology (HUHST). The delegation included Pro-Vice-Chancellor John Strachan, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor Academic Planning Ben Hughes, Director of International Recruitment and Cooperation Jiemin Tomita, Research Head in the School of Education Sarah Hayes, and Director of the China Office Wang Guangsheng. The purpose of this visit was to deepen cooperation between the two institutions and further promote the high-quality development of HUHST-BSU joint education program.

                   (Group photo of leaders from both universities)

On September 17, Ben Hughes and Sarah Hayes delivered two special academic lectures on international education for faculty and students from the School of Education, School of Business, and School of Music and Dance at HUHST. Drawing on their educational experience and expertise, they introduced BSU’s educational philosophy, teaching characteristics, discipline strengths, and international exchange programs. Through vivid case studies and excellent presentations, the students gained a deeper understanding of the cutting-edge theories and practices of international education.

In the evening, the BSU delegation attended the welcome party for the freshman, which was titled “Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival at HUHST”. They enjoyed the spectacular and professional performances together with faculty and students at HUHST, while also experiencing the unique charm of Chinese traditional culture. The exchange of different cultures composed a beautiful symphony of friendship and reunion.

                     (Group photo taken at the welcome party)

On September 18, Pro-Vice-Chancellor John Strachan was invited to attend the opening ceremony of HUHST, where he delivered a speech. Following the ceremony, both universities held a roundtable conference titled “Innovating Together for a Shared Future” in the university library. Representatives from both institutions reviewed the progress of the HUHST-BSU joint education program, discussed its future development, and engaged in preliminary negotiations for a new round of cooperation agreements.

After the roundtable conference, the BSU delegation, accompanied by several representatives from HUHST, toured the History Museum. The delegation members listened attentively and frequently paused to observe the displays, gaining a deeper understanding of HUHST’s rich history and educational characteristics.

                                                            (Group photo taken at the History Museum of HUHST)

On the afternoon of September 18, a faculty-student symposium was held for the School of Education at HUHST, where representatives from HUHST and the BSU delegation engaged in in-depth discussions on educational philosophy, teaching methods, and curriculum design. They also exchanged views on specific matters concerning the joint education program.

                                                    (Group photo taken at the faculty-student symposium)