The Polytechnic University of Castelo Branco (UPCB), in Portugal, took part in a business mission to China, promoted by the Portuguese-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCILC), to deepen academic and business relations and identify co-operation opportunities for the institution and the Beira Baixa area.

Represented by its rector, Luís Farinha, the university joined a programme of activities in Chongqing and Chengdu that included the 19th Europe–China Business and Technology Co-operation Fair, visits to industrial plants and science and innovation parks, and contacts with companies and investors.

During the visit, meetings were held with economic groups, government bodies and Chinese universities. At these meetings, the university presented the capabilities of its six schools and explored common interests in exchanges of students, teaching staff and researchers, applied research and business collaboration.

The exchanges covered digital technologies, telecommunications, automation and robotics, agricultural sciences and food biotechnology, management, design, education and health. Possibilities were also explored for hosting Chinese students, teaching Portuguese and possibly creating advanced training in Chinese for business.

The institution said follow-up to these links would be guided by common interests and the viability of initiatives. The mission forms part of the strategy of bringing together training, science and economic activity, also involving companies and institutions from the region.

(Source: O Regiões, 24 October)