Chongqing- On November 4, the Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications (CQUPT) and Russia's Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) unveiled a new collaborative educational institution, marking the first China-Russia joint university in western China and Russia's Far East region.
The unveiling ceremony of the Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications-Far Eastern Federal University Joint Institute on Nov. 4. (Photo/Zheng Yu)
The joint venture, called the Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications-Far Eastern Federal University Joint Institute, is the only approved institution of its kind in the region. It launches a new chapter in higher education cooperation between the two countries.
FEFU, one of Russia's leading public universities, is located in Vladivostok in Russia's Far East. It is recognized as the region's largest and most innovative educational and research center. It hosts the Eastern Economic Forum's permanent venue and boasts world-class campus infrastructure and a cutting-edge smart computing center.
According to Su Sen, President of CQUPT, the joint institute will offer both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The undergraduate programs will focus on Computer Science and Technology, Digital Media Technology, and Internet of Things Engineering. Graduate programs will include Information and Communication Engineering, Computer Science and Technology, and Control Science and Engineering.
The initial enrollment target for the next four years is 1,650 students, with a four-year undergraduate program and a three-year master's program. Upon completion, students will receive dual degrees and certificates from CQUPT and FEFU.
The institute plans to fully launch all six programs by 2026. It has already started enrolling students for the Internet of Things Engineering program, with the first batch of 100 students admitted this year.
Wang Yang, the dean of the joint institute, explained that the program that students will primarily study at CQUPT, with Russian faculty coming to China to teach. This model will bring the course resources from both institutions. The joint institute will enroll both Chinese and Russian students, enabling both groups to study together and foster mutual learning. Chinese students can also visit Russia for exchange programs, expanding their international perspectives.
In terms of talent development and future impact, Wang emphasized that the institute will deeply integrate the expertise of both universities in the fields of Digital Intelligence Technology and will actively involve Chinese and Russian enterprises in the training process. The goal is to cultivate internationally-oriented professionals who meet the strategic needs of both countries. Graduates will be given priority for employment in China-Russia communications, corporate expansion, and technology cooperation fields, enhancing bilateral trade and technological exchange.
According to the Chongqing Municipal Education Commission, the city has established six China-Russia joint educational institutions and projects, including the Chongqing Tchaikovsky Conservatory of Music, a partnership between Chongqing Normal University and Russia's renowned Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory. Nearly 1,000 students from both countries engage in exchange programs and visits every year, strengthening the cultural and educational ties between China and Russia.