East & West International Conference on Pathways & International Programmes Highlights the Cultivation of International Talent in the New Era

On May 13, 2025, The East & West International Conference on Pathways & International Programmes, hosted by East & West International Education Group (EWIE) and guided by the Overseas Study Services Branch of the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), was successfully held at the Crowne Plaza Beijing Zhongguancun. Focusing on the pivotal role of pathway programmes in nurturing globally competent talent, the conference brought together more than 150 educational experts, institutional representatives, and industry leaders to explore the development and future of international preparatory education.

In his opening remarks, Mr. WANG Wei, Chairman of EWIE, warmly welcomed all attendees and introduced the EWIE’s long-standing efforts and accomplishments in the field. Since 2007, EWIE has actively built an international curriculum framework driven by a dual approach of “localized integration and global accreditation.” Over the past 18 years, it has partnered with over 20 Chinese universities and received recognition from hundreds of institutions across 14 countries. EWIE has sent more than 13,000 students to major education destinations such as the UK, US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, with 20% of graduates entering QS Top 100 universities, earning widespread recognition within the education community.

Mr. CEN Jianjun, Chairman of the Overseas Study Services Branch of CEAIE, former Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation and Exchange at the Ministry of Education, and former Minister-Counselor for Education at the Chinese Embassy in the United States, delivered a keynote address titled “Advancing Talent-Centric International Pathway Education.” He emphasized that international pathway education serves as a vital bridge between domestic and global higher education. He called for strengthening its educational function and maximizing its practical value. He also offered forward-looking insights and strategies in response to opportunities and challenges in talent cultivation, sparking thoughtful discussions among participants.

Mr. WU Xinping, Representative of the Cultural and Education Section of the British Embassy in China, also delivered a special address. By analyzing current developments in higher education in both the UK and China, he underscored the essential role of international pathway programmes in enhancing cross-cultural competence, facilitating UK-China educational collaboration, and responding to global educational trends.

During the featured speech session, YAN Haixia and FENG Jianghua, heads of the International Curriculum Center at EWIE, spoke respectively on the themes “Daring to Explore, Building Strength Over Time — The Development of East & West Pathway Programs” and “Innovating with Determination, Pursuing Excellence — The Future of East & West Pathway Programs.” They shared the challenging journey of East & West Pathway Programs from their founding to steady growth, offering valuable insights on curriculum development, teaching innovation, and student services. They also introduced future development plans, giving attendees a clear and in-depth understanding of the program’s progress and direction.

During the featured speech session, Dr. Alaric Rae, Deputy Director of External Relations at the University of Birmingham, Ms. Anita Sandham, China Regional Manager at the University of Sheffield, and Ms. YAN Ke, Vice Dean of the College of Continuing Education at Chongqing University each delivered a speech, sharing the practical experiences and achievements of their respective institutions in international pathway education cooperation projects from different perspectives. Their contributions demonstrated the key role of pathway education in connecting high-quality educational resources both domestically and internationally, and presented the audience with a diverse and vivid picture of real-world practices in this field.

At the accreditation ceremony, six educational institutions — the International Education Center of Dalian University, the School of Continuing Education at China University of Geosciences (Beijing), the School of Continuing Education at Jiangnan University, Melton International School in Qingdao, Northwestern Polytechnical University, and Kangqiao School in Xinzhan High-Tech Zone, Hefei — were awarded the plaque of “East & West International Curriculum Cooperation Center.” This marked a further expansion and refinement of the global platform for international pathway education jointly promoted by EWIE and its partners.

During the panel discussion session, themed “International Pathway Education and the Globalization of Education,” several distinguished guests gathered for an in-depth dialogue, including: Ms. Le Ying, Deputy General Manager of the Shanghai Center, EWIE; Ms. Claire Guo, Project Manager of the University of Sheffield China Office; Mr. Yao Hanbin, China Admissions Officer at Lancaster University; Mr. Zhang Jing, Director of China Education International Exchange Center; and Mr. Wu Xinping, Representative of the Cultural & Education Section, British Embassy in China. The panelists explored key issues surrounding the positioning, development trends, opportunities and challenges of international pathway education in the context of globalized education in the new era. They shared the response strategies and innovative practices of their respective institutions, offering the audience a multidimensional perspective and broadening the vision for the future development of international pathway education.

The Q&A session that followed was lively and interactive, fully reflecting the conference’s open, inclusive, and pragmatic atmosphere of exchange.

At the conclusion of the event, Mr. JIN Xiaojun, Vice Dean of the Institute for East & West International Education, took the stage to deliver a closing address. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to all speakers for their insightful contributions, and to attendees for their sincere engagement throughout the discussions. He emphasized the deep understanding of international pathway education demonstrated by all participants, as well as their shared commitment to advancing high-quality educational resource sharing. Mr. Jin warmly congratulated the successful conclusion of the event, and looked forward to continued collaboration and joint progress on broader platforms in the future.

This conference marks the first of its kind in China’s international pathway education field. It has opened a new chapter for enhanced collaboration, mutual support, and shared development. With the momentum from this gathering, international pathway education is set to make more solid strides in the future — contributing to the cultivation of outstanding talents who possess national awareness, international understanding, cross-cultural competence, and the ability to meet global challenges, and driving international educational exchange and cooperation to new heights.

Durham University Delegation Visits EWIE to Deepen Strategic Global Education Partnership

On April 30, 2025, A delegation from Durham University, one of the UK’s top-ranking universities, visited East & West International Education Group (EWIE) to engage in comprehensive discussions on strengthening their ongoing partnership. This visit marked a new chapter in the long-standing relationship between the two institutions, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing innovation and excellence in international education.

During the meeting, both sides held in-depth and pragmatic exchanges on several key areas: optimizing existing collaborative programs, identifying new strategic initiatives, and coordinating multi-channel efforts in international market engagement. Durham University expressed strong recognition of EWIE’s expertise and platform strength in the global education space, and voiced enthusiasm for exploring more innovative, high-impact collaboration models.

This meeting not only reinforced mutual understanding and trust, but also laid a solid foundation for the next phase of elevated cooperation. EWIE remains committed to working closely with Durham University to harness global perspectives, integrate premium resources, and jointly shape a new benchmark in international education collaboration.

University of Essex Delegation Visits EWIE to Deepen Strategic Cooperation in International Education

On April 10, 2025, a delegation from the University of Essex visited East & West International Education Group for in-depth discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in the field of international education. The visit marked a significant step toward advancing joint efforts to provide students with higher-quality global education resources.

The University of Essex delegation featured a strong lineup, including Mr. Simon Foster, Global Assistant Vice President; Ms. Joyce Yang, Senior Regional Manager; Ms. Jo Wu, Senior Regional Manager; and Ms. Barbara Sun, Regional Director.

During the meeting, both parties engaged in focused dialogue across several key areas. First, they explored deepened cooperation on foundation program courses, especially the Essex-designated class within the IPMP (International Pre-Master’s Program). Both sides expressed a strong commitment to integrating their respective strengths and resources to further optimize curriculum design and better support students’ academic transitions into university-level study.

Secondly, the discussion extended to potential collaborative projects, with particular attention given to the 3+Master program. Drawing on their shared experience and resources in the international education sector, both sides explored new possibilities for academic cooperation to offer students more diverse and flexible development pathways.

In addition, the two sides exchanged views on multi-dimensional cooperation in marketing efforts, including both online and offline on-campus activities, as well as participation in education exhibitions and events.

This visit from the University of Essex opens a new chapter in the partnership between the two institutions. Looking ahead, EWIE and the University of Essex will continue to deepen their collaboration, working together to promote the development of international education and create broader opportunities for students’ growth and success.

Delegation from the University of York Visits EWIE

On April 7, 2025, a delegation from the University of York’s Department of Environment and Geography visited the Beijing headquarters of East & West International Education Group (EWIE).

The University of York, located in North Yorkshire, England, is a public research university and a member of the prestigious Russell Group of Universities. It is also part of the World University Network, N8 Group, White Rose University Consortium, and the European University Association (EUA). Established in 1963, the University of York is known for its high academic standards in the UK higher education sector. In 2012, it officially joined the Russell Group, and in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, it is placed at 184th, with a student population of approximately 18,000.

The Department of Environment and Geography at the University of York offers a range of interdisciplinary programs covering subjects such as natural geography, human geography, environmental science, ecology, and economics. The department offers five undergraduate programs in environmental science and related fields, nine master’s programs in areas like environmental economics and sustainable business, and numerous PhD research opportunities in related fields.

The University of York has maintained a long-term cooperative relationship with EWIE. During this visit, both parties explored opportunities for collaboration between the Department of Environment and Geography and domestic universities. Discussions included possibilities for interdisciplinary cooperation not only in environmental science, but also in areas such as economics, business management, education, and even other fields of social sciences and humanities.

EWIE Facilitates Strategic Partnership Between Shanghai Sanda University and the University of Aberdeen

On March 19, 2025, a delegation from Shanghai Sanda University, accompanied by Ms. Le Ying, Deputy General Manager of East & West International Education Group (EWIE) Shanghai Center, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Aberdeen. This milestone marks a significant step forward in international education collaboration, made possible through the active facilitation and coordination of EWIE, reinforcing its pivotal role as a bridge in global education partnerships.

Shanghai Sanda University was represented by two vice presidents and the director of the International Exchange and Cooperation Office, who engaged in in-depth discussions with the University of Aberdeen on a range of academic collaborations. These include the 3.5+Master dual-degree program, postgraduate and doctoral pathways, and short-term exchange programs. As a key driving force behind this partnership, EWIE leveraged its extensive expertise in international education resource integration, institutional networking, and program implementation to provide comprehensive support for a seamless collaboration.

A highlight of this agreement is the 3.5+M program, which offers Shanghai Sanda University undergraduate students a globally competitive pathway for further studies. Through EWIE’s coordination, this initiative has fostered close collaboration between the University of Aberdeen Business School and Shanghai Sanda University, laying a solid foundation for future joint research, faculty exchange, and international talent development.

This partnership represents a major milestone in Shanghai Sanda University’s internationalization efforts and serves as yet another successful example of EWIE’s commitment to facilitating deep collaborations between Chinese and UK universities. Looking ahead, EWIE will continue to leverage its strengths to support more institutions in establishing global education partnerships, contributing to the high-quality development of international education.

 

Cardiff University Delegation Visits EWIE to Explore New Opportunities for International Cooperatio

On March 28, 2025, a delegation from Cardiff University, including Ms. Sian Keepin, Regional Manager for China and the Far East, and Ms. Vivian Gu, Senior Manager of the China Office, visited East & West International Education Group (EWIE) to engage in in-depth discussions on international education collaboration.

During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities to advance multiple joint projects in the field of international education. As a prestigious century-old institution and a member of the Russell Group, Cardiff University is globally recognized for its excellence in research and teaching. EWIE, with its deep expertise in the international education market, has a profound understanding of Chinese students’ needs and aspirations.

Through this collaboration, both sides aim to strengthen resource integration, leverage their complementary strengths, and enhance the quality and impact of international education programs. By working together, they seek to provide students with high-quality, comprehensive educational services, nurture globally competitive talent, and drive the advancement of international education.

University of Sussex Pro-Vice-Chancellor’s Delegation Visits EWIE

On March 20, 2025, a delegation led by Prof. Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement at the University of Sussex, visited East & West International Education Group. The delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. WANG Wei, President of EWIE.

Both parties engaged in in-depth discussions on potential collaboration projects, multi-dimensional market engagement, and resource integration. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in international education and implementing joint initiatives.

Following the meeting, the delegation was invited to a dinner reception to further strengthen the friendship and partnership between the two institutions.

This visit reinforced the strong relationship between EWIE and the University of Sussex and laid the foundation for future cooperation. EWIE remains committed to fostering global academic exchanges and providing students with enhanced international education opportunities.

EWIE Invited to Attend the University of Leeds Appreciation Dinner

On March 14, 2025, at the invitation of the University of Leeds, Mr. WANG Wei, President of the EWIE, attended Professor Hai-Sui Yu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Appreciation Dinner in Beijing. The event aimed to strengthen exchanges, foster collaboration, and promote the development of future joint projects.

During the dinner, Mr. Wang held in-depth discussions with Professor Hai-Sui Yu along with other key leaders, focusing on both existing and potential collaborative initiatives. Their conversation primarily revolved around international education programs, with both sides reaching a consensus on leveraging their respective strengths to drive deeper cooperation.

In a warm and engaging atmosphere, Mr. Wang and Professor Yu expressed strong confidence in the future of their partnership. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing communication and ensuring the smooth implementation of collaborative projects. 

EWIE Participates in the University of Birmingham’s 125th Anniversary Celebration

On March 14, 2025, at the invitation of the University of Birmingham, EWIE had the distinct honor of participating in the university’s 125th-anniversary celebration. A highlight of the event was the prestigious award ceremony, where Mr. WANG Huanchen, General Manager of Wiseway, represented EWIE and actively engaged in insightful exchanges during the evening banquet.

During the celebration, Mr. Wang held cordial and constructive discussions with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Birmingham and the Head of the China Office of the International Department. Their conversation delved into promising opportunities for collaboration in EWIE’s key business areas. Both parties expressed a strong mutual interest in fostering deeper cooperation and exploring future projects, with a shared vision of achieving sustainable, long-term benefits.

This momentous occasion not only reinforced the strong ties between Wiseway and the University of Birmingham but also established a solid foundation for future collaborations. EWIE looks forward to working closely with the University of Birmingham to support more students in realizing their study abroad aspirations and to advance meaningful educational partnerships between China and the UK.

Highlights of the Event

President WANG Wei Visits Partner Institutions in Singapore

From January 23 to 24, at the invitation of partner institutions in Singapore, President WANG Wei of the East & West International Education Group (EWIE) led a delegation to visit Singapore. The delegation toured the Kaplan Singapore Campus, the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), Newcastle University Singapore Campus, Curtin University Singapore Campus, and the American Center for Education (ACE). During the visit, Mr. Wang and his team held candid discussions with leaders of the respective institutions on matters such as mutual recognition of international curricula and opportunities for EWIE International Curriculum Program students to study in Singapore. Consensus was reached in multiple areas of cooperation, laying a solid foundation for future collaboration. Ms. YAN Haixia, General Manager of EWIE’s Wuhan Center, and Mr. FENG Jishang, Director of the International Curriculum Center, participated in the visit and meetings.

During the visit to the Kaplan Singapore Campus, President WANG Wei and his delegation met with the Executive Vice President and the Head of the International Market Department. The institution provided a detailed introduction to the learning, living, services, further education, and employment opportunities for Chinese students studying in Singapore. Kaplan Singapore will actively promote the recognition of EWIE’s IYO International Year One Program, IPMP Master’s Preparatory Program, and Murdoch University’s Master’s Program by University College Dublin, which is ranked 126th in the world.

At the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), President WANG Wei held talks with the Head of International Admissions and Cooperation. Both sides introduced their respective international curriculum programs and the achievements of their domestic cooperative projects. They explored potential areas for educational collaboration, leveraging their complementary strengths to promote credit exemptions between SIM’s Diploma Program and EWIE’s IYO International Year One Program. This means that future IYO students who meet the academic requirements can transfer to SIM to continue their studies. After completing all courses in Singapore, students will receive a bachelor’s degree from the University of Birmingham or the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), providing EWIE International Curriculum Program students with another fast track to world-renowned universities.

During the visit to Newcastle University Singapore Campus, President WANG Wei met with the CEO, as well as the heads of administrative operations and international admissions. The university offers a one-year master’s program in renewable energy, primarily enrolling local Singaporean students. Starting from 2025, the university hopes to collaborate with EWIE to recruit Chinese students, providing opportunities for Chinese university graduates to obtain degrees from prestigious UK institutions. Newcastle University is ranked 129th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. Studying the master’s program in Singapore can save students more than one-third of the cost compared to studying in the UK. Renewable energy is a cutting-edge field, and graduates have significant competitive advantages and development potential whether they return to China or work in Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries.

At Curtin University Singapore Campus, President WANG Wei held talks with the Vice President and the Head of International Admissions. Curtin Singapore will expedite the recognition of EWIE’s IYO International Year One Program. In the future, students who complete the IYO program can study for two years at Curtin Singapore Campus and receive the same bachelor’s degree as those studying in Australia. Both sides also discussed cooperation in the Scholars Hub project. Curtin Singapore plans to enroll 30 students annually for doctoral programs in fields such as Energy, Engineering, Education, and Business Intelligence. Students recommended through the Scholars Hub project will receive priority review and admission. Curtin Singapore Campus is adjacent to the National University of Singapore (NUS), allowing students to access some of NUS’s educational resources. Curtin University, a century-old institution located in Perth, Western Australia, is ranked 174th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings and is highly favored by Chinese students.

During the visit to the American Center for Education (ACE), President WANG Wei met with the Executive Vice President and the Head of China Affairs. Both parties aim to leverage their respective resources, move beyond traditional student recruitment models, and innovate collaborative approaches to jointly offer bachelor’s degree programs from prestigious UK universities. Established in 2007, ACE is a private institution approved by Singapore’s relevant administrative departments to award diploma qualifications. The institution can collaborate with foreign universities to introduce their programs and award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from partner institutions. Currently, ACE offers American university general education courses, allowing students to transfer to the University of Wisconsin-Madison or the State University of New York after two years of study in Singapore. Collaboration with ACE will open a unique pathway for EWIE in the Singapore study abroad market, enhance EWIE’s influence in Singapore, and provide valuable exploration for the internationalization of EWIE’s international curriculum programs.

Through these visits, EWIE has further strengthened its cooperation with Singaporean educational institutions. This will help EWIE deepen and solidify its international education business in Singapore, enhance the influence and recognition of EWIE’s international curricula among Singaporean institutions, and provide new resources for the development of the Group’s related businesses.