This collaboration gave UNE academics the chance to teach undergraduate students at Henan Agricultural University (HAU) while also strengthening relationships between the two institutions.
Associate Professor Debbie Bower and Dr Anna Probert from the discipline of Zoology, alongside Dr Kosar Gharib-Naseri and Dr Amy Tait from the discipline of Animal Science taught students at the university, while by Professor Shubiao Wu, Professor John Gibson, and Professor Brian Wilson networked with researchers. The courses taught delivered specialised content to students interested in invasive species, animal nutrition, freshwater conservation, and animal production systems. Their visit aimed to provide students with cross-cultural learning and continue to encourage academic exchange across the two institutions.
For the UNE lecturers, the trip offered both cultural and academic insights. For freshwater ecologist, Debbie, China’s approach to turtle farming and large-scale river engineering was particularly fascinating.
“It was a great opportunity for reciprocal knowledge exchange,” Debbie said. “Visiting other institutions and cultures is a fantastic chance to learn about alternative methods to teach and research. We particularly enjoyed judging an English singing competition for the first-year students.”
Image: Associate Professor Debbie Bower with turtles
Anna, who taught invasion science, the cause and effect of invasive species, found the experience both rewarding and enjoyable. “Teaching in a different university setting and meeting the wonderful students and staff at HAU was a highlight,” she said.
For Kosar, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science, UNE’s participation in these exchanges is highly important. “It allowed us to extend our academic horizons and share our knowledge on a global stage. This experience has enriched my teaching, as I had to rethink and simplify complex scientific concepts to engage students who were learning in their second language,” said Kosar.
Amy, Lecturer in Animal Welfare Physiology and Reproduction, most enjoyed being able to expose new students to her discipline area. “I provided a series of lectures to second year students about animal production, behaviour and handling,” she said. “Having the opportunity to teach what I am passionate about to students that have no prior knowledge of our Australian systems was incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond the lecture hall, the UNE team was warmly welcomed by HAU staff and students, experiencing local culture, visiting markets, and exploring the sights of Zhengzhou, like the Yellow River. The exchange underscored the importance of cross-cultural learning and collaboration.
“Forming connections with institutions like HAU opens up new avenues for research and student exchanges, enriching both our university’s culture and our personal growth,” said Kosar.
The success of this visit was made possible through the strong collaborative efforts of UNE and HAU faculty, particularly Professor Shubiao Wu, whose leadership has been instrumental in fostering the partnership. As UNE continues to seek international research collaborations and attract high-achieving postgraduate students, initiatives like this academic exchange play a crucial role in building lasting global connections.
Image: Amy, Debbie, and Anna with Chinese students
