On June 5, the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS) and USP signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a new academic alliance between the two institutions. This strengthens USP’s role in internationalizing teaching and research, while also expanding ties with Chinese organizations, especially in the areas of social sciences and regional studies.
The ceremony took place at the Office of the USP President, located in University City, São Paulo, during a reception for a delegation from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), the institution that oversees UCASS. The visit’s schedule also included institutional presentations, meetings to discuss possibilities for articulation, and a visit to the USP-China Center’s office.
At the signing, the UCASS president, Zhang Zhengwen, pointed out the relevance of the protocol signed: “We are very happy and honored by this moment, which represents a significant step in deepening collaboration between our institution and a university that stands out not only as a leader in Latin America, but also as a benchmark of excellence on the global stage. This agreement is undoubtedly one of the most relevant we have ever established, both for the prestige of the University of São Paulo and the scope of the opportunities it creates. The partnership will open valuable doors for our students, who will be able to participate in highly qualified activities at USP, including regular subjects, special courses, seminars, congresses, and research projects in various areas of knowledge. This will make a decisive contribution to their intellectual, scientific, and intercultural training,” he celebrated.
The CASS vice-president, Zhao Rui, also attended the ceremony, joining the Chinese entourage along with researchers and deans of institutes connected to the Academy, such as the Institute of Latin American Studies and the Institute of Sociology.
Representing USP were Vice-Provost Maria Arminda do Nascimento Arruda; Ricardo Trindade, coordinator of the USP-China Center; Sergio Persival Baroncini Proença, head of the USP International Office; and Fraya Frehse, vice-chair of the International Cooperation Commission at the Faculty of Philosophy, Languages and Human Sciences (FFLCH).
This collaboration has strategic value for the vice-provost: “We are living at a time of profound changes in the world order. The emergence of new powers, the reconfiguration of international alliances, and global challenges such as climate change and social inequalities require critical and collaborative reflection. In this context, collaboration between countries like Brazil and China becomes even more relevant, and the joint work between USP and UCASS is a concrete example of a contribution to strengthening relations, promoting the exchange of knowledge, cultures, and experiences,” Maria Arminda says.
The agreement includes the mobility of professors, researchers, students, and technical and administrative staff, as well as the joint development of research projects, the organization of scientific and cultural events, the joint offering of courses and subjects, and the exchange of publications. The implementation of each initiative will be detailed through specific agreements. According to the document, both institutions are also committed to seeking funding sources to ensure the viability of cooperation programs and comply with applicable national legislation. The memorandum is initially effective for five years and can be renewed through a new agreement between the parties.
English version: Nexus Traduções, edited by Denis Pacheco
