SJTU and Monash University Launch 2025–2026 Global Immersion Guarantee Program
2026/1/16 13:10:23
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) and Monash University have jointly launched the 2025–2026 Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) Program at SJTU’s Xuhui Campus. Hosted by SJTU’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), the program will welcome more than 320 Monash undergraduate students in batches from November2025 to February2026 for a two-week immersive learning experience in Shanghai.
Focusing on the theme of Sustainable Development, the program brings together faculty and students from both universities to engage in in-depth learning and exchange on frontier topics in global governance and public policy.
A Commitment to Global Education
The program officially commenced with an opening ceremony attended by key representatives from both universities. Qian Wang, Deputy Director of the International Affairs Division, SJTU, extended a warm welcome on behalf of the university. She highlighted the program’s history since its inception in 2019, emphasizing that the enduring partnership between SJTU and Monash is crucial for nurturing globally minded students.
Yingjie Wei, Vice Dean of the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), SJTU, addressed the cohortthat “SIPA has designed the GIG program to be a comprehensive platform integrating academic learning, cultural exchange, and practical engagement, serving as a bridge for friendship and a solid foundation for our future collaboration”.
Ms. PathcharinChen, in-country coordinatorof the program, representing Monash Universitythanked SJTU for the meticulous planning and expressed confidence that the students would gain valuable insights from their immersion experience.
Curriculum: Bridging Theory and Practice
The intensive curriculum, strategicallydesigned by SJTU-SIPA, blends academic lectures with cultural exchange and high-impact field visits:
Academic Insight: Students engaged in lectures covering cross-cultural communication, renewable energy, and the role of government in low-carbon development, providing a deep dive into China’s governance model.
Cultural Fusion: A highlight of the cultural component was a hands-on workshop in Chinese calligraphyand ink wash painting. Students experienced theancient art forms, fostering a powerful blend of Eastern aesthetic appreciation and Western analytical thinking.
Policy in Action(Field Visits): To link theory with practical solutions, the program included strategic field visits to observe global trends in innovation firsthand:
Sustainable Technology: Students explored the facilities of leading enterprises in renewable energy, gaining insights into China’s technological advancements in solar power and green manufacturing.
Future Mobility: The cohortvisited several leading electric vehicle (EV) production bases, gaining insights into the industry's core technologies and future development trends.
Urban Resilience: The field study at an urban waste management facility, integrated with dedicated modules on resource recovery, is designed to unpack the governance challenges and innovative approaches for future mega-cities.
By participating in the GIG program, Monash students are able to leverage SJTU’s extensive platform and resources, gaining unparalleled access to China’s academic landscape, technological innovation, and vibrant cultural heritage. The partnership further strengthens SJTU’s position as a world-class university actively promoting global education and contributing to international dialogue on sustainable development.