Prof. YANG Zongkai, a trailblazing pioneer in China’s educational transformation, gives us deep insights on transformation and development of higher education in the age of AI

On 2 June 2026 (Tue), IHERD hosted its Distinguished Speaker Series featuring a trailblazing pioneer in China’s educational transformation, Prof. YANG Zongkai, Senior Professor of Central China Normal University (CCNU), Former President of CCNU, Xidian University and Wuhan University of Technology. The talk deeply explored the structural shifts universities must make to thrive in the era of AI.  

The event commenced with opening remarks from Prof. CAO Jiannong, Vice President (Education) and Director of IHERD. Welcoming Prof. Yang, Prof. Cao noted that the talk’s theme perfectly aligns with PolyU’s ongoing momentum toward "Education 4.0." This talk also builds on an established foundation of close institutional exchange. Prof. Yang delivered a keynote speech titled "Transformation and Development of Higher Education in the Age of AI." Drawing from his extensive practical experience in educational digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and smart education research, Prof. Yang shared deep insights focusing on two major dimensions: "How AI shapes new forms of education" and "How universities undergo governance reform for the AI era." 

This on-site exchange between Prof. Cao and Prof. Yang captured the golden key behind educational transformation: true upgrading is not achieved simply by installing a few software platforms or adopting a handful of AI tools. Instead, it requires seamlessly connecting the entire chain—from teaching philosophies and curriculum design to learning methodologies, faculty capabilities, and university governance.

The talk concluded with a highly dynamic Q&A session. Attending faculty, researchers, and students engaged eagerly with Prof. Yang, raising critical questions about the practical challenges of implementation, ethical AI utilisation, and the future matrix of student evaluation.