Official launch ceremony of the SDU-UoW International Business School held at the SDU Conference on High-Quality Development of International Cooperation in Education. [Photo/Shandong University]

On April 27, Shandong University's Weihai campus hosted the Conference on High-Quality Development of International Cooperation in Education. The event highlighted the official launch of the SDU-UoW International Business School, marking a significant milestone in global academic collaboration.

Yan Jianbo, vice-governor of Shandong province, offered his congratulations, praising SDU's 125-year dedication to regional development. He highlighted the new school's crucial role in enhancing Shandong's higher education, attracting global intellectual resources, and expanding the province's openness. Yan encouraged SDU to make the most of this partnership to lead in international education and contribute to provincial modernization.

Li Shucai, president of SDU, emphasized the school's embodiment of global development initiatives and its role in enhancing China-New Zealand cultural exchange, which aligns with the university's internationalization strategy.

Neil Quigley, vice-chancellor of the University of Waikato, said that the establishment of the school is a "living bridge" connecting both nations through education, culture, science and technology. He expressed optimism for fostering mutual understanding, sustained cooperation, and enduring friendship across generations.

In a video message, New Zealand Ambassador to China, Jonathan Austin, said that this partnership reflects the shared commitment to quality education and preparing students for global challenges. He anticipated deeper collaboration in educational innovation, talent development, and scientific research, reinforcing the strong friendship between China and New Zealand.