Adelaide University has marked its debut at two of China’s most significant international education events – the China International Education Exhibition Tour (CIEET) and the China Study Abroad Forum (CSAF) – held from 10-20 April 2026.
Marking its first major international engagement since its establishment on 5 January 2026, Adelaide University’s presence at CIEET and CSAF signals a strong commitment to deepening ties with China and supporting the aspirations of Chinese students seeking a world-class global education.
A highlight of the tour was the keynote address delivered at CSAF in Beijing by Ms Lori Hocking, Adelaide University Pro Vice Chancellor (Global Partnerships).
The invitation to speak at the forum – hosted by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE), a body affiliated with China’s Ministry of Education – reflects the growing recognition of Adelaide University as a key international partner.
“It is an honour to be here and to represent a new university built on a vision of equity, collaboration and excellence in international education,” Ms Hocking said in her address.
She introduced Adelaide University as one of the world’s largest university mergers, bringing together the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to create a globally connected, future-focused institution.
With close to 60,000 students and already ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, Adelaide University is positioning itself as a leader in contemporary education.
“Our ambition is to provide an inclusive and transformative educational experience that prepares students for the jobs of the future,” Ms Hocking said.
“We are building a university where excellence and equity go hand in hand, and where collaboration with industry and global partners drives real-world impact.”
Participation in CIEET – a flagship national exhibition organised by CSCSE – provided Adelaide University with a powerful platform to connect directly with prospective students, parents and education partners across China.
The delegation undertook an extensive multi-city tour, visiting Beijing, Chengdu, Zhengzhou, Wuhan and Shanghai, engaging thousands of attendees through exhibition booths, presentations and one-on-one consultations.
In addition to exhibition activities, Adelaide University representatives participated in on-campus engagement programs at leading Chinese institutions, including Zhengzhou University and Shanghai University of Finance and Economics. These visits offered students valuable insights into postgraduate study opportunities and strengthened institutional relationships.
A key message throughout the tour was the continuity and strength underpinning the new university.
“While Adelaide University represents a bold new chapter, it builds on more than a century of academic excellence and longstanding connections with China through its founding institutions.
Importantly, our degrees are recognised by CSCSE, providing assurance to Chinese students that their qualifications will be valued and supported when they return home to pursue careers.”
Ms Hocking emphasised the importance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges and preparing the next generation of graduates.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, universities play a critical role in building bridges between cultures, ideas and innovation,” she said. “Through shared learning and research, we create opportunities to solve complex challenges together and deliver meaningful impact.”
Ms Hocking highlighted that Adelaide University’s strengths in key research areas aligned with global priorities, including health and medical sciences, artificial intelligence and data science, advanced manufacturing, space, agriculture and the green energy transition.
These areas offer significant opportunities for collaboration with Chinese partners in both research and industry.
The successful conclusion of the CIEET and CSAF tour represents a significant milestone in Adelaide University’s global engagement strategy and its official introduction to the Chinese market as a new institution.
“This tour has been an important opportunity to listen, connect and build relationships,” Ms Hocking said. “We are excited about the future and remain deeply committed to working with our partners in China to support students, advance research and foster long-term collaboration.”
As Adelaide University looks ahead, it aims to further strengthen its presence in China through expanded partnerships, student mobility opportunities and collaborative research initiatives.