On September 13, 2024, the EU-China Higher Education Research Center at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, the LEAD Academic Network, the Brussels School of Governance at VUB, and Beihang University, have jointly organized a pivotal seminar on EU-China higher education cooperation. Bringing together 31 distinguished academic leaders, policymakers, and researchers from six prominent European and Chinese institutions, as well as policy organizations, the seminar provided a dynamic platform for dialogue. Focused on enhancing academic collaboration through the Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet Programs, the event aimed to strengthen the visibility of EU and foster deeper academic partnerships between Europe and China, laying the groundwork for future educational innovations and cross-border cooperation.
Prof. Dr. Gao Ning from Beihang University opened the event, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural collaboration and academic exchange in driving innovation. Followed his opening address, Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu presented the EU-China Higher Education Research Center and the LEAD Academic Network.
The first panel, chaired by Prof. Dr. Guan Kongwen (Beihang University), discussed the evolving Erasmus+ Program. Prof. Dr. Florian Trauner (VUB) shared the Brussels School of Governance’s success with Jean Monnet initiatives and Erasmus+ projects. Prof. Dr. Fu Lisha (Beihang University) highlighted changes in Erasmus+ principles and their impact on Chinese participation, while Prof. Dr. Zhang Han explored Responsible Research and Innovation. Prof. Dr. Luciano Saso (UNICA) presented the development of Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet programs and the international dimensions of these programs. Prof. Dr. Li Zhuyu (Sichuan University) emphasized the importance of the mutual understanding among university students in China and the EU.
The second panel, led by Prof. Dr. Florian Trauner, focused on Jean Monnet Programs and their contributions to EU-China cooperation. Prof. Dr. Guan Kongwen introduced a Jean Monnet module on European integration. QI Zhengwen (VUB) analyzed post-COVID higher education collaboration, and Prof. Dr. Yang Zekun (Renmin University) discussed a Jean Monnet Module on digital transformation in EU governance. Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu presented a research proposal in exploring digital leadership, and Prof. Dr. Huang Yanfen shared her contributions as Jean Monnet Chair on innovations in public administration.
The seminar concluded with Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu highlighting how AI could revolutionize higher education and information delivery. Beyond recognizing current achievements, the event paved the way for future EU-China academic cooperation. Leveraging Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet programs, participants emphasized the opportunity for groundbreaking research collaborations to shape the future of education and innovation between Europe and China.
