Recently, Professor Xu Qiyong, from the School of Environment and Energy (SEE) at Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, led the international student recruitment team to attend two high-level international symposia: “Ecological Civilization: From the ‘Two Mountains’ Vision to Global Action Strategy” and “Harmonious Coexistence of Earth and Humanity – Multiple Pathways Towards Ecological Civilization.” During these events, he systematically presented the innovative “Sustainable Environment and Energy Development (SEED)” talent development program and launched the promotion of international student enrollment for 2026.
At the “Responsible Management Education” sub-forum of the first symposium, Professor Xu Qiyong was invited to deliver a keynote report, providing a comprehensive overview of the SEED program’s philosophy and implementation framework. He explained that SEED, symbolizing the concept of a “seed,” aims to establish an educational ecosystem integrating five core pillars: academic innovation, career development, actionable leadership, global perspective, and a supportive community. This system is designed to systematically cultivate students’ social responsibility and leadership in driving transformation. The program focuses on three cutting-edge modules in both curriculum and practice: Sustainable Management (ESG and green finance), Sustainable Environment (pollution control), and Sustainable Energy (renewable energy), ensuring students develop comprehensive capabilities to address complex environmental challenges.
“We aim not only to impart knowledge but also to inspire students to think and act as future leaders from the moment they enroll,” emphasized Professor Xu. Through laboratory research, international exchanges, and fieldwork, the SEED program guides students to engage deeply with urban and rural communities, practicing social responsibility and honing leadership skills in real-world contexts. The model has already achieved remarkable outcomes: 28% of graduates are contributing to green transformation in the Greater Bay Area, with the latest cohort’s retention rate rising to 32%. Additionally, several alumni have embarked on academic careers as doctoral supervisors at institutions such as Peking University, Harbin Institute of Technology, and Tongji University, continuing the legacy of research and academic leadership.
During the conference, Professor Xu Qiyong was honored with the “Outstanding Contribution Award” in recognition of his academic achievements in sustainable development. His co-authored monograph, Waste Management for Global Sustainability: A Comparative Analysis of China-US Policies and Practices, published by Springer Nature, was included in the “Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainability, Ethics & Governance” series. This accolade not only acknowledges his individual research accomplishments but also underscores the solid academic foundation of the SEED program in advancing high-level innovation.
Subsequently, representatives from the School attended the “Harmonious Coexistence of Earth and Humanity” International Conference in Suzhou’s Xiangcheng District. Held on the 20th anniversary of the “Two Mountains” vision and supported by UNESCO, the conference brought together nearly 100 experts, industry leaders, and organizational representatives from around the globe. The School’s delegates actively promoted its green educational philosophy, internationalized curriculum, and enrollment policies for 2026, fostering in-depth exchanges with participants. These efforts significantly enhanced the global visibility of the School’s master’s programs in Environmental Engineering and Environmental Science, laying a solid foundation for attracting outstanding students worldwide and expanding high-quality international enrollment channels.
The series of symposia received support from UNESCO, the World Academy of Art and Science, the Earth-Humanity Alliance, the Shanghai Institute of Innovation and Design, and the Ministry of Education Philosophy and Social Science Innovation Team “Design-Enabled High-Quality Urban Development Research” at Tongji University. By sharing the philosophy and practical achievements of the SEED program, the School of Environment and Energy at Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School has introduced an innovative paradigm centered on “Leadership-Social Responsibility” for global responsibility management education, further strengthening its international influence in the field of sustainable development.
