IAA and Shanghai University Forge Partnership to Advance Global Cultural, Technological, and Artistic Education

17 October 2024, New York, U.S.A — A significant Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony marked the commencement of a collaborative educational initiative between the International Academy for Arts & Cultural Studies (IAA), and Shanghai University. The event featured Mr. Wang Congchun, Vice President of Shanghai University, and Ambassador Marco A. Suazo, Head of Office at UNITAR-NYO.

H.E. Marco A. Suazo, Mr. James Hongchuan Mu, Mr. Congchun Wang / Photo Credit: Alicia Rando Ibanez

The Memorandum of Understanding establishes the "Shanghai University Office of International Cooperation and Education." It initiates the creation of an International Center for Cultural, Technological, and Artistic Education along with a Global Urban Renewal and Sustainable Development Academic Think Tank. These initiatives are designed to cultivate global talent and foster innovation across cultural and technological sectors, particularly focusing on sustainable urban development.

Following the signing, Ambassador Suazo led a tour of the United Nations Headquarters for Mr. Wang Congchun and Mr. Jin Jiangbo, Executive Dean of the SHU Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts and SHU Shanghai Institute of Urban Regeneration & Sustainability. This tour highlighted the critical role of cultural and educational partnerships in advancing sustainable development goals and underscored the robust future collaboration between these institutions.

Mr. Jiangbo Jin, H.E. Marco A. Suazo, Mr. Congchun Wang / Photo Credit: Alicia Rando Ibanez

"It was an honor to host Mr. Wang Congchun at this pivotal event. We are enthusiastic about the prospective collaborations this partnership will engender," remarked Ambassador Suazo.

This partnership reflects the shared commitment of IAA, UNITAR, and Shanghai University to promoting global education, cultural diplomacy, and sustainable practices, setting the stage for a synergistic future where education and sustainability are closely aligned.