XJTLU & DUT: Storytelling the Future of Global Collaboration

The partnership between Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and the Durban University of Technology (DUT, South Africa) continues to flourish, driven by a shared commitment to advancing continuing professional development and fostering intercultural understanding. A recent highlight of this collaboration was the UNESCO Story Circles session held on 18 February 2025, co-hosted by Dr Anisa Vahed from XJTLU’s Education Development Unit (EDU) and Dr Divinia Jithoo from DUT’s International Education and Partnerships (IEP) Office. Designed to promote intercultural dialogue, Story Circles, developed by Dr Darla Deardorff for UNESCO, exemplifies the power of global collaboration and intercultural engagement in higher education. It is a structured yet flexible platform for individuals to share personal narratives, fostering empathy, mutual respect, and cross-cultural appreciation.

Facilitated by UNESCO Chair Dr Werner de Wit, alongside representatives from XJTLU and DUT, the session created an inclusive and engaging environment for participants to explore diverse cultural perspectives. This initiative represents a significant milestone in the XJTLU-DUT partnership, aligning closely with both universities’ strategic goals of promoting global citizenship, collaboration, and joint exploration of international opportunities. Participants engaged in storytelling exercises highlighting the richness of diverse cultural contexts, reinforcing trust and mutual respect. Such activities are essential in preparing students and staff to navigate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.  By fostering meaningful academic partnerships, XJTLU and DUT are enhancing the professional development of their staff and students and contributing to the cultivation of responsible global citizens.

Top Left to Bottom Right: Werner De Wit (UNESCO Chair), Jian Chen (ILEAD, XJTLU), Divinia Jithoo (IEP, DUT), Xiaoxue Zhao (ELC, XTJLU) Anisa Vahed (EDU, XJTLU), Kuiyin Chen (ELC, XJTLU), Nirmala Moodley (DUT), Irina Shcheglova (EDS, XJTLU), Nellie Naranjee (DUT), Andile (DUT), Lebogang Brenda Mathebela (DUT)

This milestone event reaffirms the strength of the XJTLU-DUT relationship and highlights the transformative potential of collaborative initiatives in higher education. As the COIL project leader and facilitator at XJTLU, Dr. Vahed extends her gratitude to all facilitators and participants for their contributions to the success of this training session. Looking ahead, XJTLU is excited to expand such initiatives, further strengthening international collaborations and creating new student and staff development opportunities. EDU (XJTLU) and IEP (DUT) will continue to pave the way for a more inclusive, empathetic, and globally connected future.

By Anisa Vahed