Tsinghua University hosts 'University of Salamanca Day' highlighting academic collaboration

The School of Journalism and Communication at Tsinghua University held a "University of Salamanca Day" on March 12. Faculty and student representatives from the University of Salamanca and Tsinghua University jointly participated in a series of activities focused on academic exchange and cooperation. The event also marked the first in-person exchange since the two universities signed a memorandum of understanding, signaling a new step forward in their partnership.

The University of Salamanca China Alumni Association Release Ceremony held during the "University of Salamanca Day" at Tsinghua University, March 12, 2026. [Photo by You Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

At the opening ceremony, Juan Manuel Corchado, rector and professor of the University of Salamanca, reviewed the long history of the Spanish university since its founding in 1218. He stated that amid rapid global changes and the continuous emergence of new technologies, the cooperation between the two institutions is particularly significant. Through research collaboration and academic dialogue, the two universities provide a new platform for academic exchange between China and Europe.

Zhou Qing'an, dean and professor of the School of Journalism and Communication at Tsinghua University, said that the "University of Salamanca Day" marks a significant milestone in the cooperation between the two universities, transitioning their relationship from a written agreement to substantive exchanges. He noted that despite the geographical distance, the two institutions are united by a shared academic mission. Zhou also expressed hope that the seminar and academic exchanges would foster a long-term, prosperous partnership between the two universities.

During the thematic session, scholars from the University of Salamanca delivered a presentation titled "The University of Salamanca — A Beacon of Knowledge in the Western World and Its Connection with Chinese Civilization." They introduced the university's rich academic tradition and reviewed its significant contributions to the development of thought, culture and education throughout its history. The speakers also traced the early history of Spanish scholars studying and documenting Chinese society and culture, highlighting centuries of academic interaction between the school in Salamanca and China.

Scholars take part in a roundtable discussion on "Knowledge, Power and Global Responsibility – AI and Communication" at Tsinghua University, March 12, 2026. [Photo by You Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

During a roundtable discussion, scholars from both universities exchanged views on the topic of "Knowledge, Power and Global Responsibility — Artificial Intelligence and Communication." The participants noted that AI is transforming the ways we communicate, work and live, yet understanding social contexts and analyzing complex issues still requires the involvement of communication and social science researchers. They shared experiences from cross-cultural courses, doctoral programs and international exchange initiatives, and emphasized that in the future they plan to further develop joint doctoral programs, strengthen research collaboration and pursue academic publishing projects to address the challenges posed by AI.

The event also included the Salamanca-Tsinghua Collaboration Talks, as well as a book presentation and student representative exchange, further enriching interaction between faculty and students of the two universities.

Through the inaugural "University of Salamanca Day," the two universities have taken a new step in strengthening academic exchanges and cooperation. According to organizers, a "Tsinghua Day" event will also be held at the University of Salamanca this May to further promote collaboration in academic research and talent exchange.