EdD programme welcomes new cohort of future education leaders

On 28 February, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) welcomed ten new students to the third cohort of its Doctor of Education (EdD) programme. Chosen from a competitive pool of applicants — many of whom are experienced professionals in the education field — the new cohort took part in an orientation session designed to familiarise them with the University’s vision, resources, and academic expectations.

Group photo of students and staff

Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of XJTLU (pictured below), warmly welcomed the new cohort and provided a comprehensive overview of the University’s unique characteristics and key developments since its founding.

In his address, he highlighted the university’s evolution since its founding, emphasising XJTLU’s distinctive educational philosophy and forward-looking approach. Professor Xi also introduced the broader educational ecosystem developed at the university, one rooted in exploration and strategic design, integrated with industry, and focused on equipping students with hands-on, real-world experience.

“XJTLU is committed to exploring how technology and artificial intelligence can transform educational practice,” said Professor Xi. “Our goal is to create a vibrant, accessible, personalised, and future-facing learning environment. The Academy of Future Education is also actively exploring innovative teaching methods and embracing digital transformation to develop future-oriented professionals who can thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Dr Trevor Mahy, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the School of Languages, detailed the robust English language support available to EdD students.Ms Qiaodi Zhang from the Student Development Advisor Centre outlined the range of support services available, emphasizing the advisory team’s role in helping students navigate both academic and personal challenges throughout their doctoral journey.

Dr Tim London, Director of Learning and Teaching at the Academy of Future Education, encouraged students to seek help from academic staff, to ask questions freely and to keep challenging themselves intellectually in order to generate new ideas and insights.

Professor Xiaojun Zhang, Chief Officer of Education at XJTLU and Executive Dean of the Academy of Future Education (pictured below), addressed the cohort with a call to action in the face of global educational transformation. “The mission of education is shifting,” he said. “We are no longer merely transmitting knowledge—we must cultivate innovation, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary competencies. Our systems must evolve to provide students with opportunities for growth and real-world engagement.”

The event concluded with a roundtable led by Professor Rong Wang, Director of the EdD programme, and Dr Juliana Tay, Director of the MA in Child Development and Family Education. Current EdD students engaged in candid discussions with the new cohort, offering insights on how to integrate research with professional practice, manage time effectively, and navigate academic challenges.

By Xiaoyan Jin and Xiajie Gong

Translated by Ruolin Li

Photo courtesy by Tao Liu