Shanghai Jiao Tong University Global College (SJTUGC, abbreviated as GC hereafter) has hosted an exchange program between Technical University of Munich (TUM) and SJTU. The program held from April 2 to 9 was organized by SJTU’s Office of International Cooperation and Exchange.
Coinciding with the 130th anniversary of SJTU and the 20th anniversary of GC, students from both institutions participated in a week-long program featuring academic exchange, industry visits, and cultural activities, further strengthening institutional ties.
A New Chapter of Exchange at a Historic Milestone
The opening ceremony was held on April 3 at GC. SJTU Vice President Weidong Liu and GC Associate Dean David Hung delivered remarks. GC International Programs Office Manager Viva Du hosted the event.
The opening ceremony took place on April 3 at Long Bin Building. SJTU Vice President Weidong Liu and GC Associate Dean David Hung delivered remarks. The ceremony was hosted by Viva Du, manager of the GC International Programs Office.
In his address, Liu noted that the visit of TUM faculty and students during SJTU’s 130th anniversary carried special significance. He highlighted the long-standing cooperation between China and Germany in higher education and encouraged students to enhance mutual understanding and develop lasting connections through the program.
Hung reviewed GC’s 20-year commitment to international education and stated that the exchange program reflects the college’s ongoing efforts to promote global collaboration in talent cultivation and research.
Eva Riekenbrauck, a student representative from TUM, expressed enthusiasm for the program, describing it as a valuable opportunity for learning and exchange.
Academic and Industrial Engagement Driving Innovation
As leading institutions in engineering education, both universities place strong emphasis on innovation and talent development. During the program, students visited SJTU’s Student Innovation Center and several leading enterprises, gaining a comprehensive understanding of China’s technological innovation ecosystem and global industrial trends.
Activities included:
- Visiting the Student Innovation Center and participating in a generative artificial intelligence experience session;
- Touring Systence to explore advanced interconnection technologies;
- Visiting Lenovo to learn about the development of Chinese tech enterprises;
- Exploring collaborative robotics at JAKA Robotics;
- Learning about circular economy practices at INTCO Recycling.
Experiencing China Through Culture and City Life
For many TUM students, this marked their first visit to China. In Shanghai, participants visited the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to gain insights into the city’s development, and took a night cruise along the Huangpu River, experiencing the city’s vibrant modern landscape. They also explored local neighborhoods, engaging with everyday urban life.
On campus, students visited the university’s history museum and art museum, gaining a deeper understanding of SJTU’s traditions. Cultural activities such as lacquer fan crafting and traditional rubbing techniques offered hands-on experiences of Chinese intangible heritage. Events such as SJTU People’s Day fostered interaction between Chinese and German students, strengthening friendships. Kite painting and flying activities symbolized the enduring bond between the two institutions.
The program also included a cultural visit to Suzhou, where students toured the Lingering Garden and the Suzhou Museum, experiencing the integration of classical and modern Chinese culture.
Building on a Strong Foundation for Future Collaboration
Since establishing cooperation in 1995, TUM and SJTU have achieved fruitful results in student exchanges, faculty visits, and research collaboration. GC launched its exchange program with TUM in 2018, and as of the Spring 2026 semester, a total of 45 students have participated in mutual exchanges, with increasing academic and research engagement.
This program not only continues the legacy of collaboration but also opens new avenues for future cooperation. Both sides will further expand exchange formats and deepen collaboration in innovation and talent development, contributing to global higher education and cross-cultural understanding.
Student Reflections
“I truly enjoyed the program, as there were so many meaningful and engaging activities. The company visits, especially to Lenovo, were particularly impressive. It was fascinating to experience daily life in Shanghai and gain a deeper understanding of how the city operates. I am also grateful to be part of this special anniversary and would like to extend my congratulations. I look forward to continued and fruitful collaboration between the two universities, as there is so much to learn from each other.”
—— Gregor Bock, TUM
“During the program, I was happy to act as a bridge between the local students of SJTU and the TUM student delegation. Having already studied here for one year, I could guide them, and show both Shanghai as well as SJTU to the TUM students. I made a lot of new friends during this week, and I will always treasure this experience!”
—— Tobias Palzer, TUM
(Currently exchange student at SJTU GC)
“‘See you in Germany’ was the last thing I said when we said goodbye. Throughout the exchange, I was both a storyteller of Shanghai culture and a listener in cross-cultural dialogue. Whether walking through campus in the rain or exploring the city together, we deepened our mutual understanding. This program is not only a cultural exchange but also an important bridge for advancing academic collaboration and long-term partnership between the two universities.”
——Muxi Zhang, SJTU GC
(Sophomore student at SJTU GC)
“I’m truly grateful to SJTU and the Global College for this wonderful opportunity. The program has been an unforgettable experience, especially the night cruise and the visit to Lenovo, where I not only explored new perspectives but also built meaningful connections.It was inspiring to see the strong collaboration between China and Germany, and this experience has greatly broadened my understanding of both. Thank you, and happy anniversary to SJTU and GC.”
——Daniel Ho Jin Jun, U Sydney
(Currently exchange student at SJTU GC)
