Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has taken a significant step in expanding its global reach by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST).
The new agreement will create valuable academic opportunities, foster innovation, and promote cultural exchange for students and staff at both institutions.
The core of the new partnership focuses on increasing academic collaboration and facilitating staff and student exchange opportunities. This means TUS students will have new chances to study in Shanghai, a vibrant and globally significant city. The MoU also covers Summer programmes, offering flexible, short-term study options to experience a new culture and academic environment.
A delegation from USST, led by Vice President Zhao Ming, recently visited TUS campuses in Limerick and Athlone. The visit included tours of the renowned Limerick School of Art and Design and the Athlone campus, culminating in the official signing of the agreement by Vice President Zhao Ming and TUS’s Vice President Internationalisation and Alumni, Donnacha McNamara.
Commitment to Global Engagement
The partnership enhances the university’s commitment to providing students with an international perspective, crucial in today’s world.
TUS President, Professor Vincent Cunnane welcomed the signing of the MoU between TUS and USST, he said: “This partnership aims to foster collaboration through the exchange of faculty, students and researchers, promoting innovation and global engagement between our two universities. It will enhance global learning opportunities for our students and faculty.”
Donnacha McNamara, Vice President Internationalisation & Alumni commented: “TUS is committed to increasing opportunities for our students to complete study abroad at our network of 200 partner universities. Our Asia office is based in Shanghai for 25 years and oversees partnerships with more than 25 universities in China. Shanghai is a vibrant city and presents an excellent learning opportunity for TUS students to develop their knowledge of Chinese culture and business. Cultural awareness training is offered to TUS students considering semester of study abroad.”
TUS’s Extensive International Network and Global Focus
TUS maintains a strong and dynamic network with international institutions spanning the globe – ensuring students have access to diverse academic and cultural experiences. The university has built a robust reputation for international partnerships.
These partnerships are further strengthened by TUS’s membership, as the only Irish University to be part of the Regional University Network – European Union (RUN EU). The network is a collaborative alliance of ten universities across nine European countries that champions regional development and provides students with unique European mobility programmes and degrees.
TUS’s overall focus on TUS Global underlines its dedication to internationalisation, opening up the world for its students and bringing a global perspective into its campuses.
About the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST)
USST is a large, distinguished institution with over 30,000 students and a rich history, tracing its origins back to institutions established in the early 20th century. It offers a wide range of academic programmes across engineering, science, economics, management, literature, and law.
A key feature of USST is its highly-ranked National University Science Park, which focuses on advanced manufacturing-oriented Research & Development. This technological focus aligns closely with TUS’s strengths and mission. Each year, USST welcomes over 1,000 international students to its historic Shanghai campus, offering programmes in both Chinese and English.