On the afternoon of June 17, 2025, Professor Guangtao Fu from the University of Exeter was invited by Professor Huapeng Qin to visit our institute. He delivered an academic lecture in Conference Room E213 of the college, focusing on the enhancement of urban water system management paradigms through the integration of artificial intelligence.

Professor Guangtao Fu is Professor of Water Intelligence at the University of Exeter, UK. His work lies at the forefront of artificial intelligence and water research, where he develops and applies advanced computer models, big data analytics, and AI tools to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in water management—from flooding and pollution to the creation of sustainable urban water systems. He is currently a Fellow of the International Water Association (IWA),and has previously held prestigious roles as a Royal Society Industry Fellow and a Turing Fellow.

In this talk, Professor Guangtao Fu focused on the theme of data-centric water engineering. He first guided the students through a review of the evolution of water engineering, and emphasized the important role of data in the modern development paradigm for the planning, design and operation of water systems. Subsequently，he showed us a data-centric approach to fostering transformation through five key pathways: green, decentralized, decarbonised, circular economy and automation. In addition, he highlighted the latest research progress and challenges in the journey toward fully automated planning and management of water systems.

This talk also attracted students from the Southern University of Science and Technology. Throughout the lecture, both teachers and students exhibited keen interest, actively posing questions and humbly seeking advice. This engagement triggered a lively discussion. Professor Guangtao Fu responded to the students' inquiries with patience and thoroughness, ensuring that the students gained substantial insights from his presentation.

After the meeting, the teachers and students posed for a group photo with Professor Guangtao Fu. This lecture facilitated the exchange and deepened the understanding between our school and the world's leading water system research teams. It broadened the students' international perspective and enhanced their grasp of the latest research advancements in the field of water systems, thereby establishing a solid foundation for further reinforcing collaboration with top international universities.