ICMS and GZUC Partnership Brings Transnational Education Closer

The International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) and Guizhou University of Commerce (GZUC) are taking a significant step forward in international collaboration. 

During a recent visit by the Guizhou Provincial Government Delegation to ICMS, leaders from both institutions discussed an exciting future where ICMS degrees could be offered at GZUC.  

This partnership aims to enhance ties between Australian and Chinese higher education while creating valuable new opportunities for students. 

Dr Lu Yongzheng, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Guizhou Provincial Committee and Secretary of Education Commission, expressed strong support for the initiative.  

“I support this partnership between ICMS and GZUC University and I welcome anybody from ICMS to visit GZUC,” he stated. 

The visit began with an Aboriginal Welcome to Country Smoke Ceremony, underscoring ICMS’s commitment to respect and cultural exchange. 

Breaking New Ground in Education

A key moment was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ICMS and GZUC.  

The agreement, signed in the presence of the ICMS Mace, sets the stage for Transnational Education (TNE), allowing ICMS degrees to be accessed by students in China through GZUC. 

Michael Helleman, Head of Asia at Austrade, highlighted the broader significance of this collaboration.  

“Partnerships like this one strengthen international ties and open doors for innovation and growth,” he said. 

Delivering Mutual Benefits

The collaboration has drawn praise from Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins, who acknowledged ICMS’s role in the community.  

“For almost 30 years, ICMS has produced exceptional graduates. This partnership will give Guizhou students the chance to benefit from ICMS’s excellence,” she said. 

Phil Honeywood, CEO of International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), added, “ICMS is a leader in industry-focused education. We are excited by the impact this partnership will have on students and industries in both countries.” 

Focus on the Future

Plans include the creation of a GZUC – ICMS United College, Guizhou University of Commerce (GIUC). 

This initiative will develop programs in information technology, big data and analyticsas well as cyber security, among others, to match the growing needs of global industries.  

The partnership also seeks to establish a Digital Exhibition Laboratory through collaborations with companies like Huawei Cloud. 

The goal is clear – to produce graduates with the skills to thrive in international industries while boosting the global reputation of Australian education. 

Driving Change Together

“This partnership marks a new chapter for ICMS and GZUC. Together, we’re building opportunities that will benefit students, industries, and communities in both nations,” said ICMS President and Managing Director Rowan Courtney-O’Connor. 

With TNE at the heart of the collaboration, ICMS and GZUC are setting a powerful example of how international partnerships can drive education forward, creating pathways for students and strengthening connections between Australia and China.