On May 8 and 9, Xu Meide, an internationally renowned higher education expert, Professor of the University of Toronto, Canada, and Guest Professor of Tianjin University (TJU), visited TJU where she delivered a wonderful academic lecture. She also had an in-depth discussions with scholars from TJU on the cultural and spiritual studies of Chinese universities as well as Chinese and foreign cultural exchange.

On May 8, Li Jiajun, Party Secretary of Tianjin University, met with Professor Xu at Peiyang Park Campus. They had a detailed discussion on the cultural development of world-class universities and reform of engineering education.

At the Symposium, 'Establishing International Research Platforms and Promoting World-Class Universities’ Cultural Development', Lei Ming, Vice Party Secretary of Tianjin University, presented Professor Xu with a Letter of Appointment as a Guest Professor of Tianjin University..

On the afternoon of May 8, Professor Xu gave a speech with the theme of “A world-class university with Chinese characteristics”. During her speech, she further explained her understanding of the “harmony in diversity” of Chinese civilization. She believes that China's civilization will have a greater impact on the world and that China has the ability to promote dialogue between the East and the West. Moreover, she emphasized the critical role of pedagogy by comparing the development of colleges in China and other countries.