Wang Lin, dean of the HNU-ASU Joint International Tourism College of Hainan University (HAITC), led a team from Arizona State University (ASU) to visit the Hainan National Park Research Institute on May 29.

Team members from ASU talk with representatives from the Hainan National Park Research Institute on May 29. [Photo/WeChat account: HAITC]

The establishment of the research institute marks an important step in deepening industry-education integration, Wang said, adding that the HAITC hopes to conduct in-depth cooperation and exchanges and establish long-term cooperation with the institute in talent cultivation, disciplinary construction, as well as in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Wang said that she hopes both sides will work together to boost the construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port to train innovative and entrepreneurial talents, as well as professional technicians.

Team members from ASU talk with representatives from the Hainan National Park Research Institute on May 29. [Photo/WeChat account: HAITC]

The institute aims to serve major projects and policy research for the construction of the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park and ecological civilization, according to its executive director Tang Yanfei.

It is a scientific research platform, talent training base and bridge for international exchanges, as well as a global platform featuring openness, cooperation and sharing.

Collaboration is the beginning of win-win results, Tang said, adding that he hopes to work with the college to share opportunities and advance innovation.

The two sides also discussed topics such as joint training programs for students, potential cooperation mechanisms and the expansion of cooperation and research.

Team members from ASU talk with representatives from the Hainan National Park Research Institute on May 29. [Photo/WeChat account: HAITC]

The institute, initiated by the Hainan Administration of Tropical Rainforest National Park, Hainan University, the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Forestry and Beijing Forestry University, is a public interest institution committed to biodiversity conservation and studies on the protection and habitats of Hainan gibbons.

Since its establishment in 2019, the institute has prioritized enhancing international cooperation and drawing on global experience to support the development of Hainan. It has also contributed to the research on the island’s biodiversity during the formation of the Hainan FTP.