Education News

Walailak University and Harbin Engineering University Sign MOU to Develop Double Degree Program in Artificial Intelligence

On 1 October 2024, Walailak University (WU) and Harbin Engineering University (HEU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a significant milestone in advancing academic growth and fostering international collaboration. The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Cai Chengtao, Dean of the College of Computer Science and Technology at HEU, China, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Monthian Setkit, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology at WU, Thailand.

Double Degree Program and Academic Cooperation

The newly signed MOU lays the foundation for the development of a Double Degree Program in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on a 2+2 Double Degree in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence as well as 3+1 Exchange Programs for lecturers and students. The agreement aims to expand academic cooperation in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, offering a robust opportunity for students and faculty from both institutions.

Key Objectives

The collaboration has several key objectives:

Dual-Degree Qualifications: Providing students with dual-degree qualifications to enhance global career opportunities.

Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Fostering cross-cultural education and collaboration, allowing students to experience the best educational practices of both universities.

Faculty Exchange: Supporting faculty exchanges to elevate academic quality and professional growth.

Curriculum Development

WU and HEU will jointly work on developing the detailed curriculum for the Double Degree Program, focusing on curriculum articulation, credit transfer recognition, and the alignment of Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs). This process will be conducted in accordance with the academic governance of both universities and is expected to be completed within one to two years.

Upcoming Exchange Initiatives

As part of this collaboration, lecturers and students from WU’s School of Engineering and Technology are scheduled to visit HEU in January 2025 for an academic and cultural exchange program. This visit will serve as a preliminary step for launching the 3+1 exchange program, set to begin later in 2025. To ensure seamless coordination, a series of online meetings are planned ahead of the visit.

Faculty Training and Joint Conference

HEU will offer specialized training for lecturers participating in the Double Degree Program. Additionally, HEU has proposed organizing a joint conference on Artificial Intelligence, aimed at showcasing academic research and fostering scholarly discussions. Prof. Dr. Cai Chengtao will serve as a keynote speaker, underscoring HEU’s commitment to this partnership.

This partnership between Walailak University and Harbin Engineering University is paving the way for innovation, cultural exchange, and academic excellence, creating valuable opportunities for both students and faculty.