Zaw Min Aung: Tianjin University at the Forefront of Global Engineering Education

Zaw Min Aung, the Chair of the Committee on Education in Engineering of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), emphasized that Tianjin University is playing a leading global role in Emerging Engineering Education, with reforms that are holistic, industry-integrated, and innovation-driven, offering effective solutions to the common challenges facing engineering education worldwide.

Q1: What topics or discussions at the 2025 International Conference on Engineering Education Development left a deep impression on you?

The initiative of “New Engineering Disciplines,” also known as Emerging Engineering Education, and Tianjin University’s role in it, was a major highlight of the conference. This initiative, often summarized by the trilogy of the Fudan Consensus, Tianjin Actions, and Beijing Guidelines, represents a comprehensive reform of engineering education in China. Tianjin University is widely recognized as a key leader in this movement.

Q2: In your opinion, what is the biggest common challenge facing global engineering education today? Is the Emerging Engineering Education initiative an effective response to these challenges?

The biggest challenge lies in the widening gap between the skills graduates possess and the needs of a fast-changing, technology-driven workforce. It is not just about technical knowledge; the half-life of knowledge is shrinking rapidly, especially in information technology. Employers increasingly need graduates who combine technical expertise with strong communication, collaboration, ethical reasoning, and an understanding of interdisciplinary and real-world issues.

The Emerging Engineering Education initiative is a promising and effective response. By reforming curricula, emphasizing interdisciplinarity, and integrating industry, it helps bridge the gap between traditional training and modern demands.

Q3: Where does Tianjin University’s exploration and practice in the field of Emerging Engineering Education stand globally? What distinctive features have impressed you the most?

Tianjin University is a global leader in this field, positioning itself at the forefront of reform through a comprehensive, top-down approach that connects national strategic needs with curriculum-level innovation. Globally, its practices are highly regarded, particularly under China’s “Double First-Class” Initiative. The university has delivered tangible outcomes—for example, its chemical engineering discipline ranks among the world’s top 30 in the QS Subject Rankings.

The distinctive features that impressed me most are:

Holistic Curriculum Reform: The “Double Ten” project not only created 10 interdisciplinary majors, such as Intelligent Medical Engineering, but also upgraded 10 traditional majors by integrating AI, big data, and other frontier technologies.

Deep Integration with Industry: Tianjin University’s robust school–enterprise cooperation model goes far beyond internships, involving joint curriculum design and collaborative research with leading companies.

Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Programs such as the Engineering Science Experimental Class encourage students to break down disciplinary barriers, tackle open-ended problems, and cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit.

Q4: If you had to use one word or one sentence to describe the deepest impression Tianjin University’s reform in Emerging Engineering Education has left on you, what would it be?

Holistic. The reform is not a set of fragmented initiatives but a systemic re-engineering of the entire educational ecosystem—from curriculum and pedagogy to industry collaboration.

Q5: What would you like to say to students currently majoring in Emerging Engineering Education programs at Tianjin University?

Embrace this unique opportunity to be at the forefront of a global educational shift. Your program equips you not only with technical knowledge but also with the innovative and interdisciplinary skills the world urgently needs.

Your Unique Advantage: You are part of a curriculum that directly addresses the limitations of traditional engineering education, preparing you to solve complex real-world problems by integrating emerging technologies with core principles.

Be a Bridge-Builder: Take full advantage of the interdisciplinary approach—seek knowledge in computer science, economics, or humanities, not just in your core field.

Think Like an Entrepreneur: Use projects, competitions, and research to develop creativity and resilience. Do not fear failure; learn from it.

Leverage Industry Connections: Utilize Tianjin University’s strong ties with leading companies through internships and joint projects to build networks and gain practical experience.

You are not just students; you are pioneers in a new era of engineering. Make the most of this journey and use your education to create meaningful change in the world.

Editor: Qin Mian