XJTLU founds Basic Education Group, pioneering a future-oriented education model

Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), in collaboration with the People’s Government of Futian District, Shenzhen, has officially founded the XJTLU Basic Education Group. This milestone marks a major step forward in strengthening cooperation in the field of basic education and signals a shared commitment to exploring innovative and future-oriented education models.

The newly established Group will leverage XJTLU’s strengths in higher education to introduce advanced international educational concepts and practices. Through curriculum and pedagogical innovation, as well as enhanced faculty development, the Group aims to build an integrated and seamless education system spanning from early childhood to higher education. This structure is designed to support the holistic development of students and prepare them for success in a rapidly changing world.

The inauguration ceremony was hosted by Mr. Bing Lan, Principal of the Foreign Language High School, the Group’s core member school. He stated: “As China’s first K-15 international basic education group with a distinctive foreign language focus, XJTLU Basic Education Group has made a critical breakthrough by establishing ‘XIPU Class’ within public high schools. Its founding reflects Futian’s pioneering spirit as a Special Economic Zone and marks an important innovation in the field of basic education.”

Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of XJTLU, emphasized in his remarks: “This deep collaboration between XJTLU and Futian District has resulted in the establishment of an integrated basic education group encompassing kindergartens, primary schools, middle schools, and high schools. By incorporating cutting-edge concepts in AI and digital education, we aim to unlock the creative potential and wisdom of Chinese learners and to seek new directions for the development of basic education in China.”

Mr. Weihua Zhu, Member of the Standing Committee of the Futian District Committee and Deputy District Mayor, affirmed: “Futian District has always prioritized education and committed its best resources to building a system that satisfies the people. The foundation of XJTLU Basic Education Group represents the tenth milestone in Futian’s group-based education reforms. We will offer full support to this initiative and aim to build the Group into a model of basic education excellence, collaborative schooling, and a cradle for innovative talent.”

Mr. Yiying Zhong, Deputy Director-General of Shenzhen Municipal Education Bureau; Member of the Education Work Committee of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee; Member of the Leading Party Members' Group of the Bureau, remarked: “Futian District has taken the lead in investing in education and pursuing innovation in basic education. This partnership between Futian and XJTLU brings together two strong forces with complementary strengths. It lays a solid foundation for cultivating globally minded, innovative, and practically capable talents. With joint efforts from all parties, the XJTLU Basic Education Group is well-positioned to become a shining symbol of Shenzhen’s educational excellence.”

Following the ceremony, the leadership team of the XJTLU Basic Education Group and principals from each academic level held in-depth discussions on the Group’s governance charter and the 2024–2025 academic year work plan. Workshops were also held to align strategic objectives with the specific teaching and learning needs of member schools.

By Zhen Wang

Edited by Bo Kou and Xiaoyan Jin

Translated by Sichen Fan