On August 14, 2023, a significant event unfolded as Ms. Sundra (Sandy) Dawn Graham, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dunedin City Council (DCC) in New Zealand, alongside Mr. John Andrew Christie, Director of Municipal Enterprise Administration, embarked on a notable visit to Guangzhou Huali College. The esteemed gathering was graciously hosted by Mr. Zhifeng Zhang, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Professor Jiesheng Liu, President of Guangzhou Huali College.

Chairman Zhang commenced the proceedings by extending a heartfelt welcome to Sandy, for first visit to China and Guangzhou Huali College. During his address, he concisely outlined the institution's historical origins, the meticulous journey of construction, the formidable strides in development, as well as the attendant challenges that have been encountered along the way. Emphasizing the board of directors' unwavering commitment to international education, Chairman Zhang pledged full support for the institution's endeavours in enhancing the scope of its international education programs through robust international collaborations.

Chairman Zhifeng Zhang meets with Sandy Graham, CEO of DCC

A pivotal highlight of the discourse was Chairman Zhang's expressed hope for continued support from the DCC, specifically regarding the foundation program that stands as a joint undertaking between Guangzhou Huali College and the esteemed University of Otago situated in Dunedin. This collaborative program's significance resonates deeply within the educational landscape, and Chairman Zhang's aspiration for continued support underscores the importance of nurturing this transformative academic venture.

In the cordial ambiance of the Meeting Room of the International School, Professor Jiesheng Liu, the esteemed President of Guangzhou Huali College, extended a heartfelt welcome to the visiting dignitaries, Sandy Graham and John Christie. With warmth and hospitality, President Liu orchestrated the welcoming gathering, imbuing it with his characteristic humour. He jovially remarked that while Dunedin currently finds itself amidst a chilly winter, Sandy's presence in Guangzhou coincided with the city's most balmy season of the year.

President Liu, representing the entirety of Guangzhou Huali College, expressed his enthusiastic welcome for Sandy Graham's visit, punctuating his sentiment with a resounding applause that mirrored the warmth of the scorching weather prevalent in Guangzhou. This affable exchange served as a delightful icebreaker, setting the tone for a productive and amiable discourse ahead. With a keen sense of purpose, President Liu embarked on a succinct yet comprehensive introduction of Guangzhou Huali College. His address encompassed pivotal aspects ranging from the institution's historical genesis to its overarching vision and mission, encompassing details about student and faculty population, distinctive disciplines, as well as the defining characteristics that set the college apart.

Of particular note was President Liu's emphasis on the International School's distinctive hallmark – an English-language teaching platform that sets the stage for a globally immersive learning experience. The crux of his address, however, focused on the institution's hallmark international cooperative education endeavours, with an explicit spotlight on the pioneering international undergraduate foundation program – a collaborative initiative shared with the University of Otago in New Zealand.

President Jiesheng Liu met with Sondy Graham

Furthermore, President Liu underscored the commitment of Guangzhou Huali College to encourage and fortify the diverse avenues of collaboration with the University of Otago. Notably, he unveiled plans for expanding the partnership to encompass enriching academic "2+2" credit transfer programs, vibrant student exchange initiatives, as well as coveted Dunedin-based business internships tailored for Huali's aspiring scholars. This pledge of proactive support cemented the enduring bond between the two institutions, promising an enriched academic journey for the students involved.

Sandy graciously extended her gratitude to Chairman Zhang and President Liu for their warm and hospitable reception. The impressions left by Huali's vibrant campus, with its lush green surroundings, nurturing Book Bar culture, state-of-the-art sports facilities, and empathetic humanistic ethos, had deeply resonated with her. Of particular significance was her admiration for the International School's educational philosophy and hands-on approach, focused on nurturing well-rounded global citizens through an immersive all-English teaching platform.

As the CEO of the DCC, a position tethered to the prestigious University of Otago's home city, Sandy conveyed her unwavering commitment to fostering international cooperation, particularly within the framework of the collaboration established with Guangzhou Huali College. She wholeheartedly aligned with President Liu's vision of strengthening bonds and mutual understanding between Dunedin and China through dynamic student exchanges, reciprocal visits, and valuable corporate internships.

President Jiesheng Liu welcome Sandy Graham and John Christie

Sandy's endorsement of such collaborative endeavours further solidified the bridge between the two institutions and underscored the far-reaching impacts of their cooperative educational aspirations.

Among these scholarly endeavours, a standout collaboration emerged when the University of Otago and Guangzhou Huali College embarked on a momentous journey in May 2023. Their partnership led to the establishment of a dynamic joint international undergraduate cooperation project.

Sandy Graham gives the introduction of Dunedin, New Zealand

Evidencing the profound bonds between these institutions, Mr. Garry Chronican, Director of the International Foundation (Pathway) Department at the University of Otago, graced Guangzhou Huali College with his presence in late July, solidifying the commitment to this transformative educational venture.

The Group photo of Chairman Zhifeng Zhang and President Jiesheng Liu with Sandy Graham, CEO of DCC. New Zealand

Nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island, Dunedin emerges as an ancient city exuding historical charm. Rooted in the picturesque Otago region, the city's origins trace back to its establishment in 1848. Evidencing a compelling past, it once reigned as the largest urban centre in New Zealand during the 19th century, and while today it assumes the mantle of the second-largest city in the South Island, its enduring allure remains undiminished.

  Dunedin's architectural landscape is imbued with echoes of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, an influence that lends a distinctive character to the cityscape. The heart of the urban expanse finds expression in its octagonal downtown square, aptly named "The Octagon," a focal point that epitomizes Dunedin's unique architectural identity. Dominating this locale is the majestic St. Paul's Cathedral, its grandeur resonating with the adjacent City Hall – an emblematic edifice that serves as the headquarters of the DCC. This harmonious juxtaposition of historic structures weaves a narrative of a city rich in heritage and poised to embrace the future.

Dunedin stands as an esteemed hub of education, boasting two illustrious historical institutions nestled within its city centre. The University of Otago, a venerable establishment founded in 1869, and the Otago Polytechnic Institute, established in 1889, emerge as iconic landmarks of educational prowess. These two revered institutions collectively shape the city's academic landscape, encompassing an impressive portion of over 25% of Dunedin's populace. Approximately a quarter of the city's residents are dedicated to the pursuits of these educational powerhouses, exemplifying Dunedin's commitment to learning and knowledge.

Written by Jingxiang (Cecilia) Chen

Photo taken by Jingxiang (Cecilia) Chen

Reviewed by Haojun (Edwin) Chen

Approved by Shuze Tang