The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) and Zhejiang Yuexiu University (ZYU) have signed a revised constitution and expanded cooperation agreement to grow their Joint International College in China.

The EIT Data Science and Communication College, a Joint Institute established in 2020 by EIT and ZYU, initially offered two EIT degrees, the Bachelor of Computing Systems and Bachelor of Creative Practice, with three majors in Information Systems, Intelligent Systems and Digital Media.

Representatives from EIT and Zhejiang Yuexiu University (ZYU) gather at Te Ara o Tāwhaki marae on EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus.

The updated agreement, signed at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus last Wednesday (August 6), formalises plans to introduce two new majors to the Bachelor of Creative Practice: Screen Production and Fashion Communication.

These additions, subject to approval by the China Ministry of Education, would increase the number of EIT degree majors offered at the College from three to five and could increase new enrolment capacity from 240 to 400 students per year.

More than 900 students have enrolled since the College’s establishment, with the China Ministry of Education approving eight annual student intakes covering the period from 2020 to 2027.

The signing took place during a formal visit from a senior ZYU delegation led by President Zhenhua Xu. The group was welcomed with a pōwhiri and campus tour and met with EIT staff and academic leaders involved in the college’s delivery and governance.

EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness said the visit reflected the strength of the partnership.

“We are delighted to host our colleagues from ZYU in Aotearoa. This visit highlights the significance of our partnership and the achievements we have made together.”

He thanked President Xu for his long-standing leadership and support.

EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness (right) and Zhejiang Yuexiu University (ZYU) President Zhenhua Xu sign an expanded cooperation agreement to grow their Joint International College in China.

“His commitment has been crucial to the progress of this programme and to the opportunities it provides for students.”

“We remain dedicated to ensuring students in this programme succeed, and we believe our ongoing cooperation will continue to strengthen both institutions.”

President Xu said the delegation had been impressed by EIT’s warm welcome and campus facilities.

He attributed this success to frequent academic exchanges, shared learning, and cultural appreciation, and said the expanded agreement would deepen this further.

“We consider it a successful example of Chinese cooperation with an international tertiary institute. This expansion is very significant as it will help our understanding of each other’s cultures. We can learn from one another, advance education together, and cultivate graduates with global vision.”