OeAD as a partner for higher education institutions in cooperations with China

The rector, the head of the Office of International Relations and Global Affairs, and leading scientists from TU Vienna met with the highest representatives of the university management and top researchers from the two Chinese universities of excellence. The aim was to deepen established cooperation, e.g. in civil engineering and architecture, and to explore new synergies in e.g. innovation and environmental sciences.

Alexandra Wagner, head of the OeAD Cooperation Office in Shanghai, provided on-site support with her expertise in organising and carrying out the Shanghai visit, enabling the delegation to gain in-depth insights into China's scientific landscape and to connect with the Austrian Consulate General. The programme also included a visit to the Austria Centre at Fudan University, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025 and offers advice and information for students and graduates.

The OeAD Cooperation Office in Shanghai has been a central service platform for Austrian higher education institutions, researchers and students interested in cooperation, research and study visits in China since 2005. It supports and facilitates institutional cooperation, coordinates its implementation on site and promotes visibility through cooperation with European and Austrian branch offices. Other tasks include supporting training courses for Austria-specific German as a foreign language in China, higher education marketing, advising Austrian institutions on all phases of the study admission process for Chinese applicants, developing and providing information to strengthen China expertise in Austria, and establishing and maintaining a local alumni network.