Navigating New Pathways: Education and Innovation in China and Beyond

Amidst rapid technological advancements, China and the broader region are seeking new pathways forward in education and digital innovation. To achieve this, universities will need to bolster their connection, advance their own scientific and technological innovation and explore new trends in skills and talent development.

The 2025 QS China Summit will delve into how technology and digital platforms can enhance educational access and quality. Examining successful case studies from China and neighbouring regions, the summit will provide insights into new approaches that foster creativity and critical thinking. The conference will also highlight the importance of regional collaboration, emphasising the role of shared knowledge in addressing common educational challenges.

Track Topics

As global challenges, skills developments and technological advancements reshape the educational landscape, China and the world must navigate new pathways to take advantage of these changes. To do so, they will need to booster their partnerships, while also experimenting with and developing innovative solutions.

The opening panel brings together institutional leaders to discuss how universities can prepare for success to take full advantage of opportunities, as well as the challenges that they experience.

Strategic partnerships with industry, government and other educational entities institutions have become essential for sustained growth, innovation and success. Taking a strategic view to these partnerships and selecting those that bolster mutual benefit can mean the difference between good results and excellent results.

This session will showcase perspectives on achieving this, as well as successful case studies where partnerships have driven institutional success, enhanced resource sharing and expanded learning opportunities.

While the overall pool of internationally mobile students is expected to grow, competition from both emerging and traditional destination markets is expected to increase, driven by a desire to further internationalisation efforts and build talent pools. Developing and maintaining new and existing recruitment channels through partnerships, innovative solutions and distinctive value offerings with allow universities to succeed in this competitive environment.

This session will explore effective techniques for building robust recruitment channels, including digital marketing, partnerships with international agencies, and alumni networks. Additionally, it will explore how universities can adapt to provide students with what they need most to succeed.

The Belt and Road Initiative has made significant strides in connecting China with the world through economic, educational and infrastructural engagement, among many others. Despite its impact, there is a lack of understanding of its potential form those outside of China, and consequently, opportunities are not being taken advantage of.

This session will explore some of the work of the BRI, as well as its future plans so that institutions elsewhere can benefit from the global scheme. Bringing together experts in BRI and education, as well as those who have tapped into it, the session will provide further clarity on the programme and its relationship with education and work.

The surge in technology, such as generative AI, virtual reality and learning management systems, has left many universities wondering what they should use and how to implement it. While the pandemic showed that institutions could adapt, they must now continue to navigate the best outcomes and solutions for students, academics and the broader institution.

This session focuses on harnessing cutting-edge technologies to enhance learning experiences and outcomes. This session will explore how tools are transforming traditional educational models. By examining successful implementations and innovative practices, participants will gain insights into integrating technology effectively within their institutions.

The rapid transformation of industries is having massive implications for global economies. With skills and talents needs changing, universities must not only provide students with the hard knowledge to meet employer needs, but also the ability to adapt and change.

The session addresses the evolving demands of the modern workforce and the role of education in preparing students for these changes. As industries undergo rapid transformation, there is a growing need for adaptable, skilled professionals. This session will explore strategies for aligning educational programs with future job market needs, focusing on skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and technological proficiency.

QS Quacquarelli Symonds.

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