Strengthening Ties: Welcoming Chang'an University Delegation to UCD

We were delighted to welcome a delegation from our partner institution, Chang’an University in Xi’an, to University College Dublin on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 June. Professor FAN Wen, Vice-President of Chang'an University (CHD), Professor HUANG Guanwen, Director of International Office, Professor WANG Laijun, Principal of Graduate School, Professor LI Cheng, Vice-Principal of CDIC and Mr ZHAO Liang, Party Secretary of CDIC visit marked another milestone in our ongoing collaboration.

Over the course of two dynamic days, the delegation engaged in connecting with colleagues across several disciplines and experiencing the vibrant UCD campus community. 

The visit commenced with a warm welcome and introductory meeting with Professor Paul Fanning, UCD International Dean and China Provost, Dr Catherine MacKenzie, Deputy Provost, Michael Garvey, China Joint Colleges Director, and Julia Janiszewska, CDIC Programme Manager. The conversation set the tone for a day filled with rich academic exchange and partnership building.

The delegation then visited the School of Geography to meet with Head of School Julien Mercille, where discussions centred on the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programme, offering an opportunity to explore shared academic interests and future collaborations. This was followed by a networking lunch at the UCD University Club, hosted by the School of Geography.

In the afternoon, the group toured the Schools of Civil Engineering, Mechanical & Materials Engineering, and Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy (APEP). These visits offered the delegation an in-depth look at UCD’s facilities and innovative research initiatives.

The day concluded with a relaxed and engaging dinner hosted at the Confucius Institute, providing a warm setting for informal discussion and cultural exchange.

The second day began with a visit to the Centre for English and Global Languages, where Dr Anna Nunan and Dr Stephen Kelly guided the delegation through a comprehensive introduction to UCD’s language programmes and student supports. 

The visit concluded by midday, leaving our guests energised and inspired. Their enthusiasm and engagement throughout their stay exemplified the strong spirit of collaboration that underpins the UCD–Chang’an University partnership. This visit was a wonderful opportunity to share expertise, and explore new possibilities for cooperation in research, teaching, and cultural exchange.