Ghent University East Asia Platform Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Reception in Guangzhou
(23-04-2026) April 10: Ghent University East Asia Platform (formerly known as China Platform), in collaboration with the Ghent University Alumni Guangzhou Chapter, hosted a reception at the Residence of the Consul General of Belgium to mark the 20th anniversary.
Around 40 guests gathered including representatives from partner universities in China (Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, and Guangzhou Medical University), as well as Belgian and Chinese alumni of Ghent University. Together, they reflected on two decades of fruitful collaboration and looked ahead to a bright future of continued partnership.
The reception opened with a welcome speech by Mr. Loic Waty, Vice Consul of the Consulate General of Belgium in Guangzhou. Professor Luc Taerwe, Director of the Ghent University East Asia Platform, then presented a detailed overview of the Platform’s milestone activities and cooperative achievements over the past 20 years. Mr. Shang Chenjing, an alumnus of Shenzhen University, introduced the development of the Guangzhou Alumni Chapter on behalf of the chapter.
Prof. em. Luc Taerwe, Vice Consul Loic Waty and Mr. Zhang Chi
Then, three alumni took the floor to share their career accomplishments and express heartfelt gratitude to Ghent University for nurturing their growth. Speakers included, Associate Research Fellow at the South China Sea Fisheries Dr. Xiaoting Zheng Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences; Mr. Jurgen Cobbaut, Head of Automotive China at Arcelor Mittal; and Mr. Min Yang, Founder and CEO of AULEO and Professor at Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen). Finally, Mr. Zhang Chi announced the launch of the 6th China Partners Academic Forum (CPAF) in 2026, extending a warm invitation to Ghent alumni in China to register and host one of the seminar sessions, continuing the tradition of academic excellence and cooperation.
The reception then transitioned into a relaxed networking cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed fine food and drinks while rekindling old friendships and forging new connections. Laughter and lively conversation filled the air as old and new friends shared updates, insights, and joyful moments over toasts.