The University of Bath has successfully completed its inaugural Engineering Practice Summer School in partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), one of China's leading engineering institutions. As the first student initiative delivered under a new partnership between the two universities, the programme marks an exciting milestone and demonstrates a shared commitment to developing long-term collaboration in engineering education and research.
Held in Shanghai from 13 to 19 July, the week-long programme brought together 13 mechanical engineering undergraduates from Bath and 25 students from SJTU for an immersive programme of technical learning, practical engineering experience, industry visits and cultural exchange.
Designed around the theme of engineering practice, the summer school gave students access to world-class facilities and technologies while developing the skills increasingly sought by global employers, including teamwork, problem-solving, intercultural communication and applied technical expertise.
Students took part in a series of lectures and laboratory activities focused on aerospace engineering and aircraft propulsion. Highlights included the disassembly and reassembly of aeroengine components, hands-on inspection and testing activities, and demonstrations of advanced measurement technologies, enabling participants to apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.
The programme also included visits to innovation and manufacturing organisations in Shanghai, including companies specialising in robotics, hydrogen fuel cell technologies and smart manufacturing. These experiences gave students valuable insights into emerging technologies and the future direction of global engineering industries.
Alongside the technical programme, students participated in team-building and cultural activities that encouraged collaboration between participants from both institutions. Working together throughout the week enabled students to build international networks, develop confidence communicating across cultures and gain experience of working in a global environment. The summer school was also an important opportunity for both universities to strengthen the newly established partnership, bringing together students and staff to explore future opportunities for collaboration in teaching, research and international engagement.
Professor Carl Sangan, academic lead for the summer school from the University of Bath's Department of Mechanical Engineering, said:
This was an outstanding learning experience for our students. The programme gave them access to engineering facilities, technologies and practical experiences that helped bring their academic studies to life. Just as importantly, it enabled students from Bath and Shanghai Jiao Tong University to work together, build friendships and develop the international perspective that is becoming increasingly important in engineering careers.
Professor Tim Ibell, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design commented on the collaboration with SJTU:
The fabulous success of this first summer school has shown what can be achieved when our institutions come together with a shared commitment to learning and collaboration. It has laid strong foundations for Bath and SJTU to build on, and gives us real confidence in the potential of our partnership in the years ahead. I am delighted to see this partnership flourishing.
The summer school forms part of the University's commitment to providing students with opportunities that enhance their academic experience while preparing them for careers in a globally connected workforce. Through exposure to different engineering approaches, technologies and cultures, participants gained valuable insights that will support their future professional development.
The University and SJTU are now exploring opportunities to expand student participation and develop further collaborations.
University of Bath and Shanghai Jiao Tong University
The Engineering Practice Summer School follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Bath and Shanghai Jiao Tong University earlier this year. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration across education, research, staff and student engagement.
Shanghai Jiao Tong University is recognised as one of China's leading universities and is internationally renowned for its strengths in engineering and technology. Building on longstanding academic links between researchers at both institutions, the partnership aims to create new opportunities for student exchange, postgraduate collaboration and joint research activity.