Amman: Yarmouk University and China's Shanghai Theatre Academy have explored opportunities to enhance academic and cultural cooperation, focusing on theatre education, performing arts, and artistic exchange.
According to Jordan News Agency, discussions were held during a meeting between Yarmouk University President Dr. Malek Al-Sharaari and Zhao Xiaoqiang, the Cultural Counselor at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Amman and Director of the Chinese Cultural Center. Zhao was accompanied by a delegation from the Shanghai Theatre Academy.
Dr. Al-Sharaari emphasized the strong academic connections between Yarmouk University and Chinese higher education institutions, viewing the visit as a significant step towards enhancing joint academic and research cooperation in cultural and artistic disciplines. He expressed Yarmouk University's intent to establish partnerships with Chinese academic institutions to foster cultural exchange, support research initiatives, introduce Chinese language programs, and provide scholarships and training opportunities. He also mentioned that the university offers Arabic language programs for non-native speakers and hosts Chinese students.
Al-Sharaari also highlighted the Faculty of Fine Arts' role in preparing graduates who contribute to artistic development on national and regional levels. He affirmed the university's readiness to collaborate with the Shanghai Theatre Academy in areas of shared interest.
Zhao expressed China's commitment to strengthening ties between Chinese universities and Yarmouk University, commending its efforts to promote Chinese language education and strengthen cultural ties between the two nations.
Delegation members from the Shanghai Theatre Academy praised Yarmouk University's cultural openness and its role in promoting intercultural dialogue. They reflected on the academy's academic journey as it celebrates 80 years since its founding, evolving into a comprehensive arts institution with programs in theatre, traditional Chinese opera, dance, film, and television.
The delegation expressed willingness to expand cooperation with Yarmouk University, particularly in theatre studies, aiming to develop joint academic programs that encourage innovation and address future arts education needs.
The visit included a tour of the Faculty of Fine Arts, where the delegation was informed about its academic departments and programs, and a visit to the Jordanian Heritage Museum at the Faculty of Archaeology and Anthropology.