On 25 and 26 November 2024, a delegation from Tongji University in Shanghai, led by Prof. Dr. Yihun Wang and Prof. Dr. Jin Zhao, visited the Department of Business Education at Paderborn University. The exchange focussed on international cooperation in vocational education and training.
Professional dialogue and insights into practice
During their visit, the participants discussed current research topics in international vocational education and training, including doctoral projects and opportunities for cooperation, in presentations and talks. The programme was supplemented by visits to two vocational colleges in Paderborn, which offered practical insights into the German dual training system.
Prof Dr Yihun Wang praised the platform for academic exchange: "The Graduate Student International Academic Forum offers young academics the opportunity to share their ideas, gain new perspectives and advance their professional development." Prof Dr Jin Zhao was also impressed: "Prof Dr Kremer's team provided us with an unforgettable academic journey. Our doctoral candidates received valuable input and at the same time got to know the inspiring learning environment at Paderborn University."
Prof. Dr. H.-Hugo Kremer, Head of the Chair of Business and Vocational Education with a focus on media didactics and continuing education, emphasised the importance of the visit: "It was an honour to host the delegation from Tongji University. The varied programme offered exciting insights into the research and teaching of both institutions as well as into the learning environments of German vocational colleges."
Doctoral students from the Department of Business Education, including Friederike Breuing, Franziska Otto and Niklas Sänger, presented their research projects and engaged in intensive dialogue with the guests. Exchange students from Tongji University, who are studying in Paderborn as part of the Asian Studies in Business Education (ASBE) programme, were also actively involved in the programme. They organised a guided tour of Paderborn and supported the intercultural dialogue.
The international guests were enthusiastic about the insights and discussions: Hou Meixia, a doctoral candidate from Tongji University, explained: "The intensive discussions about the connection between industry and education have significantly deepened our understanding of the German vocational training system and the dual model." Her fellow student Guo Yuzheng added: "I am grateful for the open dialogue with the researchers at Paderborn University. The suggestions for my research topics were enormously helpful and inspiring."
