SCO University Journalism Cluster Urges Enhanced Regional International Communication

Leading scholars from the SCO University Journalism Cluster gathered at Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) over the weekend for a roundtable dialogue on regional international communication research, collaborative talent cultivation and cluster development.

Approved in 2025, the Journalism Cluster is a key educational initiative under the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) framework, with SISU as the leading Chinese institution.

Experts delivered forward-looking proposals to advance SCO-centered communication development.

SISU chair professor Jiang Heping stressed shifting communication strategies from supply-driven output to user-centered practice, highlighting the integration of content, technology and channels to achieve tangible communication effects.

Sun Modi, executive editor of International Communications, a journal under the China International Communications Group, noted that the SCO can serve as a vital platform to address global communication crises.

He emphasized that the cluster should function as both an academic community and a practical hub to deepen regional communication studies via publications and youth exchanges.

Deng Xiujun from Beijing Foreign Studies University called for building an independent disciplinary knowledge system, arguing that traditional media-centered theories fail to adapt to complex cross-border communication.

He proposed expanding research into diverse media forms and cultivating interdisciplinary talent with technical and cross-cultural competence.

Dalian University of Foreign Languages' Ning Xiaoxiao pointed out existing shortages in localized expression and inter-university collaboration, calling for integrated regional research resources and joint training mechanisms.

Chongqing Normal University's Yang Qi suggested pragmatic cooperation through shared courses, summer field practices and backpack journalist programs to nurture young communication talents.

In her closing remarks, Wu Ying, dean of SISU's School of Journalism and Communication, acknowledged cross-national cultural and institutional challenges.

She outlined long-term cluster development centered on joint research, curriculum sharing and cross-border practice, with the aim of building a sustainable cooperation system to strengthen cultural exchanges and people-to-people connectivity across SCO member states.