Tsinghua University Hosts Southeast Asia High School Principals Forum: Fostering Educational Innovation and Cooperation
The 2025 Tsinghua University Southeast Asia High School Principals’ Forum took place recently in Singapore, bringing together educational leaders from 30 distinguished high schools in Southeast Asia, including institutions from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Indonesia. The forum aimed to facilitate discussions on critical topics such as innovative talent development and the alignment of high school education with university standards.
Morning Session Highlights
During the morning session, Tsinghua University showcased its educational philosophies and innovative practices. Professor Peng Gang, the Vice President and Provost, delivered a keynote address outlining the concepts and successes of the university’s undergraduate education. His presentation focused on restructuring curriculum systems and fostering comprehensive student development. Professor Wang Xiumei, Director of the Management Center for Colleges, also contributed by discussing college-based training models, emphasizing innovative approaches to personalized talent development through tutorial systems and community engagement.
Wang Shuaiguo, Director of the Tsinghua University Online Education Center and Secretary-General of the Global MOOC and Online Education Alliance, highlighted emerging trends in artificial intelligence education and demonstrated how intelligent technologies are transforming teaching methodologies. The session concluded with Qiu Yun, Senior International Admissions Officer, providing insights into undergraduate admission policies for international students, offering practical guidance to Southeast Asian high schools on navigating the application process.
Afternoon Presentations
The afternoon featured presentations from various well-known Southeast Asian high schools, illustrating their educational practices. Dunman High School from Singapore examined its talent cultivation system, including teaching case studies and management models. Tzu Chi School in Indonesia shared their experiences in curriculum reform and faculty development, with a focus on personalized educational pathways. Singapore (Cambodia) International Academy discussed innovative management and evaluation approaches, while Foon Yew High School in Malaysia presented its integrative approach to cultural heritage. Additionally, Furen International School from Singapore highlighted its achievements in curriculum reform and international education. These presentations provided valuable examples that could enhance regional cooperation.
Collaborative Dialogue
In a collaborative dialogue, Professor Zhang Li, Dean of Tsinghua Zijing College, introduced the “Global Education Collaborative Innovation” framework, advocating for the removal of geographical barriers to improve future talent capabilities. Professor Liu Jianguo, Associate Dean of Tsinghua Xiuzhong College, stressed the importance of integrating sustainable development principles into the educational framework, calling for educational systems to assume greater social responsibilities.
Conclusion
The forum played a significant role in envisioning cooperative strategies and served as a vital link in promoting educational collaboration across regions. The exchange of insights on talent cultivation and educational models among Tsinghua University representatives and Southeast Asian high school principals contributed to a deeper understanding of various educational frameworks and addressed challenges within the global educational landscape, aiming to cultivate innovative talents with competitiveness and social responsibility.
