From November 21 to 24, Dr. Shawn Chen, Founder and Chairman of Sias University, was invited to Japan to participate in the 2024 Annual Conference of the International Association of Universities (IAUP). This conference, a pinnacle of academic excellence, convened educational leaders from every corner of the world to engage in profound discussions about the evolving trends and pressing challenges confronting higher education today. As a member of IAU, Dr. Chen was invited to participate in the President's Forum and other key agendas, accompanied by a representative from Sias Office of Foreign Affairs. This representation not only highlighted Sias’s significant standing within the international education community but also emphasized its relentless pursuit of global engagement and academic excellence.

During his visit to Japan, Dr. Chen actively carried out a series of educational exchanges and cooperation activities, and on November 21st, he was invited to visit the Japan Association of Private Universities and Colleges (JAPUC), where he engaged in a fruitful meeting with Mr. Hidemon Koide, the Secretary General of JAPUC, and Mr. Ichiro Tanioka, the Vice President of JAPUC. The discussion centered on bolstering the strength of private universities in both China and Japan. The two parties delved into a profound dialogue regarding enhancing cooperation and exchange between private universities in both countries, as well as collectively advancing the landscape of higher education. Following this insightful conversation, several cooperative intentions were reached, marking a significant milestone in fostering closer ties between educational institutions in China and Japan.

Dr. Chen also visited Josai International University (JIU) and had a productive meeting with Mr. Tang Fuzhi, Vice President of JIU. The two sides had in-depth discussions on strengthening cooperation and exchanges between their respective universities, emphasizing collaborative efforts in education and teaching, scientific research, and the exchange of visits between faculty and students. During this meeting, both sides emphatically expressed their commitment to further enhancing communication and collaboration, aiming to jointly contribute to the nurturing of high-quality talents who possess an international vision and innovative capabilities.

Furthermore, Dr. Chen made a special trip to visit Sias students who are currently pursuing their studies at Japanese partner institutions. He inquired thoroughly about their academic pursuits and living conditions, expressing genuine concern for their well-being. Dr. Chen encouraged these students to value the precious opportunity of exchange, to diligently study, gain profound insights, and establish a strong foundation for their future endeavors. Additionally, he advised these students to share their exchange experiences with a wider audience upon their return to Sias and further encouraged more Sias students to embark on exchange programs and other international initiatives, highlighting the immense benefits derived from tapping into Sias’s extensive internationalized education resources.

Dr. Shawn Chen participated in the annual conference of the International Association of Universities.

Dr. Shawn Chen visited the Japan Association of Private Universities and Colleges.

Dr. Chen visited Josai International University.

Dr. Chen visited Sias students studying in Japan on exchange.