Landmark partnership welcomes first ākonga

UCOL’s joint institute with Xi’an University, the ‘Palmerston North Institute of Xi’an University’, welcomed its first cohort of 140 ākonga this week as its inaugural courses commenced in Shaanxi Province, China.

The Institute is a collaboration between UCOL and Xi’an University and offers undergraduate courses with an international and cross-cultural perspective in software engineering and data science and big data technology.

Jasmine Groves, UCOL Chief Executive, says the collaboration with Xi’an University demonstrates UCOL’s growing international reach, while enriching academic communities and strengthening the bonds of friendship between New Zealand and China.

“Through the institute, ākonga will experience an education shaped by both Chinese and New Zealand academic traditions.

“The opportunity to graduate with qualifications from Xi’an University and UCOL will demonstrate specialist capability, as well as the ability to work across cultures, understand different perspectives and apply knowledge in an international environment.

“Our teachers are excited to share their advanced specialist knowledge, practical expertise and New Zealand perspectives,” says Groves.

Ms Groves would like to acknowledge University President Prof. Liu Bo, Party Secretary Wang Yuxuan, and the leadership of Xi’an University for their vision and commitment to establishing the joint institute.

“Establishing a joint institute across two countries requires shared ambition, careful planning, trust and strong relationships.

“I’d also like to acknowledge our inaugural ākonga and the founding members of this new international learning community. They will always hold a special place in the history of this partnership and will help shape the experience for the ākonga who follow.”

Xi’an University’s President Prof. Liu Bo says, “Thanks to our shared resolve and persistent efforts spanning the Pacific Ocean, Palmerston North Institute is now officially launched. I wish to pay my highest tribute to officials from provincial and municipal authorities for their care and support for the institute’s development, as well as to all colleagues from both universities for their dedicated work.”

“In 2026, we have achieved encouraging outcomes. Our two programs — Software Engineering, and Data Science and Big Data Technology — have attracted higher quality enrolments than anticipated. The ample, high quality student pool fully testifies to the high recognition of this China New Zealand cooperative education model among society, parents and candidates alike.”

Addressing the ākonga, President Prof. Liu said, “You will systematically study cutting edge curricula on new generation information technology and artificial intelligence. Upon graduation, you will be awarded degree certificates from both institutions, equipping you with solid credentials to pursue your dreams on the global stage.”

Dean Rankin, UCOL’s Executive Dean Health & Humanities, was instrumental in setting the programme up.

“It is the first foreign collaboration of its kind approved for Xi’an University and one of the first established by undergraduate universities in Shaanxi Province,” says Rankin.

“Software engineering, data science, and big data technology are transforming virtually every part of modern life. They underpin innovation in business, industry, education, healthcare, and our communities. The demand for graduates who can develop technology, interpret complex information, and apply data responsibly will only continue to grow.

“The institute brings together the strengths and perspectives of Xi’an University and UCOL to prepare ākonga for this rapidly evolving future. It is an important partnership for UCOL and reflects our commitment to international education and to working with respected institutions that share our focus on quality, innovation, and student success.

“The institute is positioned as a significant long-term initiative for Xi’an University and a platform for strengthening education links between Shaanxi Province and New Zealand,” says Rankin.

Ākonga will complete four years with teaching and curriculum contributions from both institutions. Eligible graduates then receive a Xi’an University degree and UCOL’s Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology.

UCOL is also establishing joint programmes with two other Chinese Universities - Weifang University and Xi’an Shiyou University.