On 14 March 2025, School of Transdisciplinary Studies (STS), in collaboration with Graduate School (GS) of The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK), successfully launched a series of International Classroom for Climate, Wellbeing, and Sustainability (International Classroom Series). The first seminar, titled "Internationalisation of Higher Education: Help or Hindrance to Climate Action?", was delivered by Professor Tristan McCowan, Professor of International Education at the Institute of Education, University College London (UCL), who is also the Director of the Climate-U network. This seminar series aims to foster meaningful discussions and facilitates global knowledge exchange on critical sustainability challenges. The inaugural session of International Classroom Series brought together faculty members, scholars, students, and sustainability advocates to explore the role of higher education in addressing climate change.
The event began with opening remarks from Professor Mok Ka Ho, Provost and Vice-President (Academic and Research), Director of the School of Transdisciplinary Studies, and Dean of the Graduate School. Professor Mok introduced the International Classroom Series and emphasised how transdisciplinary collaboration and international dialogue can drive discussions on pressing global issues.
In his presentation, Professor Tristan McCowan explored three key dimensions of internationalisation and the dynamics of the global higher education system.
Professor McCowan discussed how the increasing global connectivity of higher education institutions contributes to both positive and negative climate outcomes. He highlighted the dynamics of a global system, examining how academic mobility, cross-border collaborations, and international partnerships can advance sustainability efforts while also increasing carbon emissions through travel and resource-intensive exchanges.
Following the keynote, the session transitioned into an engaging discussion and Q&A session. Participants raised pressing questions about balancing global academic collaboration with sustainability, the role of universities in shaping climate policies, and practical solutions to mitigate the carbon footprint of international education.
The International Classroom Series will continue to provide a platform for scholars and experts to engage in meaningful dialogue on sustainability challenges. This initiative reflects the university's commitment to fostering interdisciplinary learning and actionable research that contributes to global climate solutions.
