I had the incredible opportunity to visit Shanghai Jiao Tong University, where the motto "gratitude and responsibility" defines the spirit. This visit, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs China and the China International Press Communication Center, was an illuminating experience. Our group, consisting of journalists from Asia-Pacific and Africa, was guided by notable figures like Chen Dehai, Counselor of the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Hu Xubo, Deputy Director of the Information Department of the Shanghai Municipal Foreign Affairs Office.
The journey began with a warm welcome from the university's faculty and management. We explored the university's museum, which narrated the rich history of this prestigious institution. Shanghai Jiao Tong University, founded in 1896 as Nanyang College, has evolved into a globally renowned higher education hub.
Our guides highlighted its significance as a key national university directly supervised by the Ministry of Education and co-established with the Shanghai Municipal Government. They emphasized its achievements within initiatives like the 985 and 211 projects, as well as the Double First-Class Initiative. Currently, the university is led by Party Secretary Yang Zhenbin and President Ding Kuiling.
In the university's museum, we learned about its historical roots, its transformation from Nanyang College, and its pivotal role in Western education and translation. The strong emphasis on engineering education has cultivated a workforce of skilled engineers in international companies.
Our tour extended to the School of Media and Communication at the Pao Yugang Library. Peng Dayin, where Secretary of the Party Committee of the School of Media and Communication, Cao Jie, Deputy Director of the Propaganda Department, Chen Ke, Deputy Director of the International Exchange Office, Wang Qian, Director of the International Office of the Graduate School and Associate Professor of the School of Media and Communication, and Li Yongheng, Director of the School of Student Affairs Office, were also there.where we met with Representatives of international students from the School of Media and Communication like PHD student from Pakistan Nida Khan and a student from Afghanistan Mr Fardin Ayar and Shahir Sharifi.
After the warm and informative welcome where we interacted with faculty members and international students, This school comprises various departments such as Journalism and Communication, Film and Television, Design, and Cultural Industry and Management. With a diverse student body and a dedicated faculty of about 55 members, the school offers a wide array of undergraduate, master, and doctoral programs.
The international students we met shared their experiences, depicting an enriching environment supported by scholarships and excellent facilities. Their accounts reassured me of the quality of journalism education offered at Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
In conclusion, the university's global ambience, diverse student body, and experienced faculty paint a picture of a thriving educational landscape. It's evident that Shanghai Jiao Tong University is a nurturing ground for future journalists.