Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) has officially launched its first joint education programme in China, marking a milestone in the University’s internationalisation and transnational education strategy.
Led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation Professor Lucy Johnston, a UC delegation travelled to Qufu Normal University (QFNU) in Shandong Province to formally open the new partnership, which has been approved by China’s Ministry of Education under the prestigious Sino-Foreign Cooperative Education scheme.
The programme enables students to begin their studies at QFNU before transferring to UC’s Ōtautahi Christchurch campus to complete their qualification. Through a co-designed, co-taught mathematics curriculum, students will benefit from the combined expertise of academics from both institutions – gaining a truly international learning experience.
The partnership also creates opportunities for joint research, staff exchange and professional development, strengthening the academic connection between the two universities.
“This partnership reflects the best of international education – bringing together the strengths of both universities to create new opportunities for students,” Professor Johnston says.
“It shows what’s possible when universities collaborate globally, building on our shared commitment to research, teaching, and the exchange of knowledge across borders.”
While in China, Professor Johnston also had the honour of attending QFNU’s 70th anniversary celebrations and presented a gift to the University’s President, Professor Honghai Zhang, on behalf of UC, symbolising respect, friendship, and a shared commitment to education that underpins both institutions.
“We are deeply grateful to the University of Canterbury for its diligence and partnership,” said Professor Honghai Zhang, President of Qufu Normal University.
“As Qufu Normal University celebrates its 70th anniversary, the golden autumn ushers in a new journey for our students and our institution. Mathematics, one of QFNU’s founding disciplines, is proud to lead our first large-scale Sino-Foreign partnership. To the students joining this programme, I encourage you to take initiative in learning from the world, to respect cultural diversity, strengthen cross-cultural communication, and grow into international talents with global perspectives. As our motto reminds us — never be tired of learning, never be weary of teaching.”
The partnership between UC and QFNU, ranked among the top 150 institutions globally for mathematics (Shanghai Rankings), highlights both universities’ commitments to developing globally engaged graduates, expanding research collaboration, and strengthening international academic networks.
It also reflects national and international priorities for international education. The initiative aligns with the Government’s International Education Going for Growth Plan, which aims to double the sector’s value to $7.2 billion by 2034 through increased student exchange, stronger global recognition, and sustainable growth. These goals echo UC’s vision to grow thoughtfully, welcome more students, and build a community that’s global in reach with firm local roots.
The programme’s inaugural cohort began their studies at Qufu last month.
Professor Johnston says the visit reinforces UC’s dedication to long-term partnerships that extend opportunities for students and academics alike.
“By working across borders, we enrich the learning experience, inspire innovation, and prepare students to thrive in a globally connected world.”
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