Swinburne University has partnered with one of China’s most prestigious design, research and innovation institutions – Tongji University’s College of Design and Innovation.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley joined representatives from the two universities in Shanghai today as they signed an agreement to develop joint research focusing on design and innovation.
Tongji’s College of Design and Innovation and Swinburne’s School of Design will partner in new research projects and in managing joint PhD students, opening up opportunities for innovation. PhD students who graduate will be awarded jointly badged degrees from both Swinburne and Tongji Universities.
Mr Foley also announced Andrews Labor Government support for PhD Design Research Scholarships for up to three students each year from 2017.
Recipients will be awarded up to $5,000 towards their studies, which will be used for travel, living expenses and expenditure related to their research.
Mr Foley is in China with Victorian creative industries leaders from across the design, screen, visual and performing arts sectors. The visit follows the recent signing of a Cultural Partnership Agreement between Victoria and the People’s Republic of China, opening the doors for Victoria’s creative industries to forge new opportunities with Australia’s biggest trading partner.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“Design forms a big part of Victoria’s $23 billion creative and cultural economy and plays an increasingly important role across many industries. Design can help transform businesses across all sectors – from manufacturing to agriculture – making them more effective, more profitable and more exportable. It is a key capability of the 21st century.”
“This partnership with Tongji University, one of China’s most prestigious tertiary institutions, will help to bolster Victoria’s strengths in design education, strengthen Swinburne’s international reputation and position it at the leading edge of design research and innovation.“
Quotes attributable to Dean of Swinburne University’s School of Design Prof Scott Thompson-Whiteside
“Design research and practice play a fundamental role in the future state of our economy and have wider benefits to society and our wellbeing. Good design, underpinned by solid research, is an important catalyst for our future competiveness, prosperity and well-being.”
“We are delighted to be working closely with Tongji and very much appreciate the support given by the Victorian Government with the PhD scholarships.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020