On March 12, 2025, Professor Joachim Schäfer from the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW) in Germany was invited to visit Zhongqiao University for a two-day academic exchange.
01 Guest Lecture
On the morning of March 12, Professor Joachim Schäfer delivered a lecture on the topic "Cross-Cultural Management in the Context of Globalization: Theory and Practice" in the lecture hall. The lecture was hosted by Dean Yan Hui, the Assistant to the President, Dean of the International Department and the School of International Education. Dean Yan extended a warm welcome to Professor Schäfer and briefly introduced his academic achievements in the field of cross-cultural management, praising his significant contributions to the study of globalization and cultural diversity.
In his lecture, Professor Schäfer explored the relationship between cultural traditions and modern economic transformation, using South Korea as an example to analyze the evolution of its economic and cultural development. He particularly emphasized the importance of cross-cultural management in today's globalized context. The core of the lecture focused on the theory and practice of cross-cultural management. Professor Schäfer pointed out that cultural differences are a crucial factor in cross-cultural management, as they not only influence national behavioral patterns but also play a significant role in shaping gender roles. These cultural differences lead to diverse ways of thinking, which in turn affect the problem-solving approaches people choose to take.
At the end of the lecture, Professor Schäfer expressed his high regard for the academic sensitivity and international perspective demonstrated by Zhongqiao University students. He praised their enthusiasm for participation and active questioning. He looked forward to further academic collaboration between Zhongqiao University and the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University in research, talent development, and other areas.
02 Faculty and Student Exchange Meeting
In the afternoon, Professor Schäfer held an academic exchange meeting with faculty and student representatives of Zhongqiao University. During the meeting, Professor Schäfer shared his academic research experience and insights, patiently answering questions from the attendees. Both sides engaged in a lively discussion on topics such as cross-cultural management and Sino-German educational cooperation, with a warm atmosphere and a strong academic vibe.
03 Joint Course Creation
On the morning of March 13, Professor Joachim Schäfer, in collaboration with the School of Economics and Management at Zhongqiao University, co-hosted a course titled "International Transportation Management." Combining his extensive practical experience, Professor Schäfer systematically explained the core elements and communication skills of managing cross-cultural teams. The course content was both accessible and comprehensive, integrating theory with practice. The students actively participated in the discussions, expressing that they gained a lot from the course.
04 Deepening Cooperation and Shaping the Future Together
During his visit, Professor Schäfer expressed full recognition of Zhongqiao University's achievements in the field of international education. He pointed out that the university's efforts and outcomes in promoting internationalization in education are commendable. He also expressed his expectations for deeper cooperation in academic research, talent cultivation, and other areas in the future. Zhongqiao University plans to use this visit as an opportunity to further advance its international education strategy, actively incorporate international educational concepts, and cultivate more high-quality talents with both global vision and innovative capabilities, in order to better serve society.
Source: School of International Education
Edit and Translation: Chi Zhang
