On the morning of January 12th, the opening ceremony for the 2026 "Intelligent Bioengineering" DUT-BGI International Student Winter School was held in Room 116 of School of Bioengineering. Attending the ceremony were Prof. DUAN Yuping, Dean of School of International Education, Mr. ZHANG Jidong, Vice Dean of School of International Education, Prof. XUE Chuang, Dean of School of Bioengineering, and international winter school members from nine countries including Brazil, Colombia, Serbia, and Greece, as well as representatives of Chinese and foreign experts and scholars. The ceremony was hosted by Associate Prof. JI Fangling, Assistant Dean of School of International Education.

In his speech, Prof. DUAN Yuping extended a warm welcome to all international winter school members and reviewed the collaborative achievements between DUT and BGI Group. He noted that since its launch in 2024, the DUT-BGI International Joint Program has achieved comprehensive coverage across undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels, enrolling a total of 64 international students from over 20 countries, gradually building a diversified and international innovative talent cultivation system. He encouraged the members to "let curiosity be the lamp and cooperation be the bridge," delving into cutting-edge knowledge in the field of intelligent bioengineering during the international winter school, while also experiencing the unique charm of Chinese civilization through cultural activities such as Chinese painting, seal carving, and dumpling making.

In his address, Prof. XUE Chuang emphasized that the deep integration of life sciences with artificial intelligence and information technology is reshaping the development landscape of bioengineering. He stated that this international winter school is designed around emerging themes like "Intelligent Bioengineering" and "Data-Driven Life Sciences," aiming to provide a platform for academic exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration for young scholars. He expressed his hope that the members would consider the DUT-BGI International Joint Program for their future advanced studies.

A solemn flag-presenting ceremony was held on-site. Dr. XU Jie, the lead teacher of the Serbian delegation, handed the winter school flag to the representative of the international student members. In her speech, the international student representative expressed that the theme of "Intelligent Bioengineering" filled her with anticipation for the learning ahead. She stated she would cherish every opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and participate in scientific research practices, fostering understanding and friendship through exchange.

This international winter school focuses on cutting-edge fields such as intelligent bioengineering and data-driven life sciences. Through academic seminars, laboratory practices, and Chinese cultural experiences held in both Dalian and Shenzhen, it aims to help international members broaden their academic horizons and enhance their innovative capabilities. It also represents an important practice for the university to further deepen international exchanges and expand global cooperation, building a bridge for young talents worldwide to understand frontier technologies and promote mutual learning among civilizations.