College of Engineering partners with China's Zhejiang University

The University of Hawai`i at Mānoa College of Engineering and China’s Zhejiang University (ZJU), Hangzhou, College of Civil Engineering and Architecture signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the purpose of promoting research collaboration in various areas of civil and environmental engineering under a five-year agreement.

 

“China represents a tremendous area of growth in science and technology for the world,” said Peter E. Crouch, dean of the College of Engineering. “I’m pleased that both institutions recognize the mutual value of strengthening our academic cooperation and exchange in the area of civil and environmental engineering.”

 

The agreement between the UH Mānoa College of Engineering and ZJU proposes the development of a PhD candidate exchange program, faculty exchange program, joint research endeavors and discussion on recommendations for the establishment of a new English instruction-based curriculum for ZJU.

 

“The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is ecstatic about our new international collaboration agreement with our colleagues from Zhejiang University,” said C.S. Papacostas, chair of the department. “We anticipate many mutually beneficial results as a consequence.”

 

 

 

Founded in 1897, Zhejiang University was initially known as Qiushi Academy, one of the earliest modern academies of higher learning established in China. In September 1998, a new Zhejiang University was established on the basis of the amalgamation of the four former individual universities, namely Zhejiang University, Hangzhou University, Zhejiang Agricultural University and Zhejiang Medical University. Zhejiang University is a key comprehensive university whose fields of study cover philosophy, literature, history, education, science, economics, law, management, engineering, agriculture and medicine.

 

 

The University of Hawai`i at Mānoa College of Engineering has launched thousands of successful careers in Hawai`i and throughout the world. Graduates occupy key roles with engineering firms, government agencies, defense contractors, and as entrepreneurs.  Many of its 9,000 alumni have made significant engineering contributions to the state’s infrastructure and are now set on accomplishing similar tasks abroad.  The College’s respect for the Hawaiian culture is reflected in its successful mentoring program for under-represented science and engineering students. As the College celebrated 100 years of engineering education at Mānoa in 2008, it continues to focus on becoming a major contributor to Hawai`i’s renewable energy and sustainable future.