Global media delegation explores innovation and education at Zhejiang University

More than 40 journalists from domestic and international media outlets recently visited Zhejiang University (ZJU) to explore its latest achievements in scientific innovation, talent cultivation, and cultural heritage. The visit offered the delegation a firsthand look at how ZJU integrates cutting-edge technology with education to foster creative minds.

The delegation's first stop was the artificial intelligence (AI) exhibition hall. A historical photograph of China's first cohort of AI graduate students caught the attention of the visitors. I am deeply impressed that Zhejiang University offered AI-related graduate courses as early as 1978 and has persisted in this field for decades, remarked a journalist from Brazil. Beyond its rich academic history, the hall showcased tangible innovations, including the world's first intelligent seal-engraving machine and 4D-printed self-burying seed carriers. These exhibits demonstrated how ZJU translates theoretical code into physical applications.

At the Future Learning Center, the journalists experienced a new paradigm of cross-disciplinary education driven by AI. The center promotes a collaborative model of teacher-student-machine co-creation, breaking traditional boundaries of learning. The delegation observed various student-led projects, ranging from aerial intelligent robots simulating cable maintenance to self-bioluminescent plants. A Japanese journalist expressed admiration for the students' hands-on capabilities: I saw many undergraduate students presenting their high-tech research. Their active involvement and capability are truly inspiring.

The media representatives also toured the exhibition hall of A Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings. They marveled at how modern digital technology has revitalized traditional Chinese masterpieces, demonstrating ZJU's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with aesthetic education.

During the visit, a symposium was held where ZJU representatives and heads of relevant departments shared the university's experience in basic research breakthroughs and regional collaborative innovation. The discussions highlighted how ZJU leverages AI as an engine to drive educational reform, transforming students from readers into innovators. The journalists gained a deeper understanding of ZJU's commitment to innovation and its vision for future education.

Adapted and translated from the article published by ZJU WeChat Official Account
Translator: DING Chenwei
Photo: TING Guang
Editor: DING Chenwei