SPbGASU representatives with colleagues from Henan University of Urban Construction
From 12 to 19 April, a delegation from the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering (SPbGASU) conducted a working visit to the People's Republic of China. The main goal of the trip was to strengthen partnerships and discuss promising scientific and educational projects with leading Chinese universities and organizations.
The delegation was led by Vice-Rector for Research Evgeny Korolev. It included Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Municipal Services Dmitry Ulrikh, Head of the Division for Curriculum Development and Academic Work Elena Aleksandrova, and Head of the International Relations Division Shuainat Akhmadulaeva.
Meeting a new partner — NCWU
The tour began with a visit to the North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power (NCWU). This meeting was of an introductory nature and marked the first step toward establishing a partnership between the universities.
On behalf of the Chinese university, the delegation was welcomed by Vice-Rector Li Yanbin, who noted the symbolism of the visit:
"Years 2026–2027 have been declared Cross Years of Education in Russia and China. The launch of this year's collaboration takes on particular significance and is a key step in developing cooperation."
During the negotiations, the parties discussed key areas of cooperation, including joint research, student and faculty members exchanges, and the development of educational programs. The SPbGASU delegation visited the university's history museum, the analytical testing center, and the Institute of Ecology and Environment.
At the end of the meeting it was concluded to prepare a cooperation agreement between the universities.
Developing cooperation with HUUC
The next stop on the visit was Henan University of Urban Construction, a long-standing partner of SPbGASU, with whom cooperation has been developing successfully since 2017.
During the meeting with university representatives, including Vice-Rector Sun Yuzhou, the prospects for developing an international laboratory in the field of water management and ecology, as well as the implementation of a joint educational program, were discussed.
A special event was the awarding Evgeny Korolev with the title of Honorary Professor of Henan University of Urban Construction, in recognition of his contribution to the development of Russian-Chinese scientific and educational cooperation.
Interaction with industrial partners
During the trip, the SPbGASU delegation also visited Chinese enterprises, including the Luoyang Henyuan Plant and the innovative Henan Chengye Company. Both companies specialize in the development and small-scale production of construction chemicals, including concrete additives and modern building materials.
Company representatives expressed interest in establishing cooperation with SPbGASU, which opens up additional opportunities for applied research and innovation.
Career guidance work
Career guidance was a special focus during the visit. The delegation visited Pingdingshan Secondary School No. 1, where they met with the administration and schoolchildren.
On this day, the school celebrated art and science. The students presented an exhibition of their creative works, demonstrated their knowledge of natural sciences, and displayed their own models and scientific developments, demonstrating a high level of preparation and interest in science.
The visit outcomes
The SPbGASU delegation's visit to China marked a significant milestone in the university's international development. The agreements reached with North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power and Henan University of Urban Construction lay a solid foundation for long-term cooperation.
The Chinese partners highly praised the scientific and educational potential of SPbGASU, emphasizing the importance of joint research in water supply, ecology, and urban management. The results of the visit contribute to strengthening the university's position on the international stage and open up new opportunities for students and faculty members.
