Liverpool John Moores University Deepens Partnership with Shanghai Engineering Institution

LJMU and SUES Strengthen Academic Ties Through New International Agreement

With over 200 years of heritage and more than 30 years as a modern university, Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is a well-established public research institution located in Liverpool, England. Renowned for its inclusive approach to education, strong civic engagement, and commitment to widening participation, LJMU serves a diverse student body of over 27,000 learners. As one of the UK’s leading providers of transnational education, the university maintains active partnerships across industry, health, maritime, and the creative sectors, with research and teaching closely aligned to real-world impact and community needs.

Building on this foundation, LJMU has further strengthened its international outlook by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Shanghai University of Engineering Science (SUES). The Shanghai University of Engineering Science (SUES) is a leading public institution in China, known for its strong emphasis on engineering and applied innovation. It is one of the first pilot universities under China’s Outstanding Engineer Education and Training Programme and a pioneer in Emerging Engineering Education. The university ranks in the top 50% globally across over 100 research disciplines and is particularly recognised for its contributions to materials science, mechanical engineering, and industrial design.

This strategic agreement marks the beginning of an enhanced partnership focused on academic cooperation, joint research initiatives, and mobility opportunities for students and staff across both institutions. The collaboration reflects LJMU’s ongoing commitment to global engagement and its vision to foster meaningful cross-border educational exchange. To mark the occasion, LJMU hosted a delegation of six representatives from SUES at its Liverpool campus. Led by Vice-President Professor Chunming Xia, the group met with LJMU Vice Chancellor Professor Mark Power, Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement and Partnerships Dr Aileen Jones, and colleagues from LJMU’s International team and the Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to align institutional priorities and explore future initiatives in education, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.

The MoU was formally signed at LJMU’s Student Life Building and is expected to strengthen collaboration in areas such as joint research, student-led projects, and academic mobility. LJMU and SUES have maintained a productive relationship since 2017, notably through initiatives like the Sino-British Joint Lab for Smart Sportswear and Sustainable Package Design. This partnership has also facilitated student exchanges, including SUES participants in LJMU’s Global Summer School and LJMU fashion students attending the Shanghai Summer School Fashion Pathway. Further reinforcing the relationship, LJMU Vice Chancellor Professor Mark Power was appointed Honorary Professor of SUES in October 2019. LJMU’s broader international engagement includes partnerships with institutions worldwide, with over 24,000 students studying for LJMU awards through transnational education programmes, placing the university sixth among UK providers. Additionally, nearly 2,000 international students currently study at LJMU’s Liverpool campus. This renewed partnership with SUES exemplifies LJMU’s strategic vision to expand global academic networks and deliver meaningful international opportunities for its community.

Editor’s Note:

The partnership between Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and the Shanghai University of Engineering Science (SUES) represents a significant step in advancing cross-border academic collaboration. By formalising their relationship through this Memorandum of Understanding, both institutions are creating a stronger platform for joint research, student-led projects, and academic mobility. For LJMU, the agreement expands its global network, strengthens its transnational education profile, and opens new avenues for research partnerships in areas such as engineering, design, and innovation. For SUES, the collaboration provides direct engagement with UK higher education expertise, broadening opportunities for its students and faculty to work within an internationally recognised research environment. Students from both universities stand to benefit from enriched learning experiences, access to diverse academic perspectives, and the chance to participate in international exchanges and collaborative projects. Such exposure enhances employability and develops the intercultural skills essential for thriving in a globalised workforce. This renewed alliance builds on a productive history dating back to 2017, ensuring that future initiatives are rooted in trust, mutual respect, and shared academic ambition. It is a clear example of how sustained partnerships can drive innovation, strengthen institutional capabilities, and provide life-changing opportunities for students. 

Skoobuzz commends LJMU's ongoing commitment to international education as both timely and admirable. This collaboration is set to broaden its global impact, stimulate innovation, and generate significant opportunities for students and staff at both universities.