Earlier this week, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) worked with “Exploration and Free Views” magazine to host the “New liberal arts and innovative talent training high-end forum” (Forum). More than 30 scholars from universities and academic journals around mainland China joined 10 members of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the Forum.

SUSTech University Council Vice Chairperson pointed out in his speech that SUSTech is working hard to develop its own path in the creation of a unique liberal arts discipline at a top first class science and engineering university. The Forum reflected the need to develop creative and innovative talents. He added that the School of Humanities and Social Sciences had undertaken many innovative reforms as part of its charge to its more open approach to the humanities and arts that encourages integration with the sciences, engineering and medicine. It has also encouraged interdisciplinary research across numerous areas at SUSTech as part of a wider quest to lay a solid foundation for the development of the SUSTech student body. Li Fengliang hoped that the continued contributions made by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences would see the further urban development of Shenzhen and become an important center for liberal arts in the Greater Bay Area.

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean Chen Yuehong stressed the importance of exploring a new path of reform in the integration of the humanities and arts education with sciences, engineering, and medicine for higher education in China for the new era. By adopting a small and focused academic team that provides a fundamental general education and multidisciplinary research directions, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences has been investigating a wide range of projects that support the improvement of cultural capital across Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area.

Following their speeches, participating scholars and experts gave their perspectives on a wide range of issues, including interdisciplinary integration, construction of science and technology and humanities, and cultivation of innovative talents. They compared different forms of liberal arts pedagogy and the inspiration for cultivating innovative talents well versed in their discipline. The discussions sparked lively debates and discussions, providing new ideas for SUSTech and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Under the stewardship of Dean Chen Yuehong and the mentorship of University Council Vice Chairperson Li Fengliang, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences will continue to develop in a positive direction. The cultivation of top-notch innovative talents requires them to understand cutting-edge scientific and technological knowledge while also understanding society’s needs, as part of their broader awareness of values, ethics and dreams. Only then can these talented individuals be truly engaged in the interdisciplinary works that contribute to the nation. This is the path that SUSTech has taken with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the successful convening of this Forum reflects the positive direction SUSTech is heading in this regard.