Shenyang, China – 26 May 2025 — Hewa Fouad Ali, a staff member in Tishk International University’s (TIU) Faculty of Education, English Language Teaching Department, recently attended a 20-day “Seminar on Outstanding Teacher Development for Developing Countries” hosted by Shenyang Normal University (SYNU) from May 6 to 26, 2025.

A Platform for Global Collaboration

The program, designed for just 25 mid-career educators from eight developing nations, featured a mix of daily lectures, peer-led seminars, and field visits across Shenyang, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. During his presentation, Hewa Fouad Ali discussed how TIU can integrate pedagogical and curriculum design best practices from China to improve local learning outcomes.

The visit has resulted in a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) now under review by SYNU’s senate. This MoU, supervised by the Faculty of Education Dean, Dr. Dogan Ozdemir, and the Head of the ELT department, Dr. Venera, proposes joint research projects in education and applied linguistics, as well as reciprocal conferences.

Hands-On Learning and Future Opportunities

The delegation visited prominent institutions like Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, and Shenzhen University, where they explored China’s approach to curriculum innovation, teacher training, and technology integration in multicultural settings.

Following the mission, Hewa has briefed TIU leadership on a number of strategic initiatives, including:

  • Incorporating Chinese language electives for students.
  • Seeking Belt and Road scholarships for talented graduates.
  • Inviting SYNU experts to TIU’s upcoming international teaching-quality conference.

This mission reinforces TIU’s commitment to international cooperation and academic excellence, and it is expected to create new opportunities for both faculty and students.

Keywords: Tishk International University, English Language Teaching, TIU, Lecturer, Teacher Development, China, Shenyang Normal University, Educational Mission, Global Collaboration, Memorandum of Understanding, Academic Excellence, International Cooperation, Belt and Road Scholarships