From 10-15 April, a delegation of eight students and seven staff from the University of Nottingham, UK(UNUK), embarked on an immersive study tour to the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) and Ningbo as part of the mobility taster programme.
Professor Jon Garibaldi, Provost of UNNC, emphasised that UNUK and UNNC are collaborating in providing students with opportunities to develop their global competencies. The aim of this mobility taster programme is to enable UNUK students to explore opportunities to study in UNNC, while also offering potential prospects for their future career development.
Through a series of interactive workshops, technology showcases, corporate visits, and cultural immersion activities, the visitors gained profound insights into UNNC’s educational environment and research strengths, leaving them deeply inspired.
"Wow, this is so cool! Hope I can land safely!" On 11 April, in UNNC’s flight simulation lab, the realistic operation interface and dynamic feedback system of the flight simulator fascinated the UNUK students and staff. “We haven’t seen these in the UK before. It's amazing! The teaching is also really impressive.” said Ameit Kaur Dhaliwal, a student from UNUK.
In the Advanced Manufacturing Lab, a UNNC PhD student demonstrated a "multi-material vascular stent" created using a multi-material 3D printer, which combines soft and rigid materials that automatically expand at body temperature, perfectly adapting to vascular bifurcations.
“What was really interesting is printing with different combinations of materials with varying properties,” noted Mr. Richard Lindsay Tew, an Associate Professor in PDMes at UNUK. “I’m familiar with additive manufacturing from Nottingham and have been involved in many projects, but nothing as sophisticated as this piece of equipment.”
Delegates also witnessed the world’s first cryogen-free MRI device, co-developed by combining UNUK’s MRI technology and UNNC’s scientific research breakthroughs, which left a deep impression on everyone.
Beyond academic exchanges, the delegation also embraced a rich array of Chinese cultural activities. They visited Ningbo's historic landmarks, including Tianyi Pavilion (Asia's oldest surviving private library), the merchant-inspired Nantang Old Street, and Ming-dynasty Cicheng Ancient Town. Additionally, they participated in Chinese language classes, calligraphy practice, table tennis matches, and pottery-making workshops.Then, they visited leading local manufacturing enterprises to understand China's smart manufacturing and industry development.
"Everything here has exceeded my expectations. This is an incredibly valuable learning experience." Amhet said.
“The last time I was here was 13 years ago. Coming back now, I’m really impressed by how much it has changed to be even better—the facilities, campus atmosphere, and environment are absolutely amazing,” said Rachel Marie Jessop, Senior Strategic Projects & International Manager at UNUK. “It’s great to be here, and I hope more students will come in the future.”
Professor Jon Garibaldi noted that UNNC aims to create an innovative environment where minds from different cultural backgrounds can interact and spark new ideas. This mobility taster programme is not only a concrete demonstration of the deep ties between the two universities but also a precious opportunity for young people from China and the UK to build friendships and gain a deeper understanding of each other's culture. By learning, experiencing, and feeling, participants broaden their global horizons and inspire creativity.
Published on 16 April 2025