The President of the CDU led a delegation to visit Guangzhou University, jointly promoting a new chapter in international university cooperation.

On October 30, 2024, Professor Scott Bowman, President of Charles Darwin University (hereinafter referred to as CDU), was invited to attend the annual series of events of the Guangzhou International Sister Cities University Alliance (GISU) held at Guangzhou University, and visited Guangzhou University for the first time in his capacity as Executive Chairman. This important visit marks a significant beginning of Professor Bowman's leadership work in the alliance. The accompanying team included CDU Vice Presidents Steve Roger and Shannon Holborn, Dr. Lin Yong, Director of the International Office, Rebecca Marrone, Director of the President's Office, and other university leaders. Both sides had in-depth exchanges on future innovative cooperation between universities.

Professor Scott Bowman (left)Secretary Ouyang Qian (right)

During the talks, President Bowman first expressed his gratitude to the GISU Secretariat and member universities for their support, promising to fully promote the work of the alliance while actively promoting cooperation between CDU and Guangzhou University in teaching, research, and talent cultivation. He stated that the global environment is becoming increasingly complex and volatile, and universities should not only cultivate talents but also shoulder social responsibilities in global sustainable development and human well-being. President Bowman also mentioned that through the GISU platform, the friendly relations between Darwin City and Guangzhou City will become closer, and there will be more opportunities for cooperation and exchange in the future.

Secretary Ouyang warmly welcomed President Bowman's arrival and thanked CDU for its support to the alliance. He pointed out that Guangzhou University attaches great importance to exchanges with Australian universities, including CDU, and hopes to carry out more in-depth cooperation in the fields of environmental science, artificial intelligence, and climate change, creating more learning and research opportunities for teachers and students. Both sides agreed that the sustainable development of cities requires the joint efforts of universities around the world, and GISU is a platform for young people and scholars from various countries to exchange ideas and showcase innovation.

During the event, President Bowman also attended the final of the '5th Guangzhou International Sister Cities University Alliance City Innovation Student Entrepreneurship Competition', delivered a speech, and presented awards to the winning students.

President's Speech

This year's competition attracted student teams from 25 alliance universities, who showcased various innovative projects in the 'Concept Group' and 'Startup Group'. President Bowman encouraged the students during the award ceremony, stating that young people are the core force driving innovation, and the global competition platform provides them with an opportunity to showcase their talents and realize their creativity.

President Awarding Prizes to Winners

The head of the GISU Alliance Secretariat mentioned that the competition is part of the alliance's 'Global Innovation Talent Program', and will continue to help the development of excellent projects in the future, allowing more young people to find ways to realize their dreams in the field of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Next year, CDU will host the '2025 Guangzhou International Sister Cities University Alliance City Innovation Student Entrepreneurship Competition', with the final to be held in Darwin City, Northern Territory, Australia. Young people from around the world will gather here to showcase their creativity and passion. President Bowman stated that CDU will do its utmost to provide a platform for global youth to exchange ideas and cooperate, promoting collaboration and sustainable development of global cities through the competition.