Shanghai Partnership Signals Smart Future for AU Students

May 14, 2025 — Assumption University of Thailand (AU) signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shanghai Nanhu Vocational and Technical College, marking a strategic collaboration in intelligent connected vehicles, healthcare training, and metaverse-based education. The AU delegation, led by Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President of AU, met with Prof. Jianliu Zhu, Deputy Party Secretary and President of Nanhu College, and Vice President Zhou Yifeng.

Nanhu College, organized into five major academic groups — finance and commerce, tourism services, information technology, transportation, and culture and art — hosts nationally recognized training centers, including the Shanghai Vocational Education International Business Open Training Center, Auto Repair Open Training Center, and International Cruise Teaching Base.

The AU delegation toured Nanhu’s 5G Digital Creativity Training Center, International Cruise Training Base, and New Energy Vehicle Smart Connectivity Center, all integrated into the college’s Metaverse Digital Interactive Space, showcasing immersive technology and vocational innovation.

The collaboration includes:

Establishing a Sino-Thai Intelligent Connected Vehicle Joint Laboratory for co-developing curriculum for ASEAN markets.
Metaverse-based immersive nursing training bridging technology with healthcare education.
Hosting 50 Thai exchange students over the next three years, with faculty exchange to co-develop localized academic content.

Relevant SDGs:

SDG 4: Quality Education – Enhancing global learning experiences and immersive training.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Promoting innovation in connected vehicles and healthcare technology.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthening international collaboration and academic exchange.