Formations | Recherche
A network at the heart of global issues
The CUCM is much more than just an academic alliance. It is a dynamic network that already brings together 23 universities from 10 countries, all located in cities whose history and development are intrinsically linked to a canal or a river. These waterways, which link some 3,000 cities around the world, are vital corridors for trade, culture and international cooperation.
The main objective of the CUCM is to strengthen international academic cooperation to tackle major challenges, ranging from urban development to the ecological protection of historic regions. The mechanism is based on a philosophy of co-construction and benefit-sharing, aimed at maximising the impact of joint actions. The Yangzhou Action Plan 2026-2030 sets out concrete initiatives to achieve these objectives:
Area of Cooperation | Key Objectives and Specific Initiatives |
Talent training | Develop joint programmes, double degrees and student exchanges. Organisation of summer schools on "Canal Civilisation and the Low Carbon Future". |
Scientific research | Conducting research partnerships on innovation and sustainability themes, including the protection of canal cultural heritage, watershed ecosystem management, climate resilience, low-carbon and green technologies, and food security. |
Industry-University cooperation | Promoting technology transfer and disruptive innovation and creating specialised platforms. |
Cultural exchanges | Injecting new vitality into historic regions through intercultural dialogue, in particular through the creation of "Multicultural Exchange Poles" and the organisation of cultural events and technology fairs. |
Services to society | Contribute to improving global governance and the prosperity of cities, by producing influential think tank reports and innovative solutions. |
What does this mean for ESTIA?
Membership of the CUCM, and particularly the integration of the Yangzhou 2026-2030 Action Plan, transforms ESTIA's international cooperation into tangible actions that benefit its entire community:
For students:
Access to degree programmes in Chinese universities as well as specific scholarships for study stays or research internships in partner universities. Participation in themed summer schools and the CUCM Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition, offering international visibility and funding opportunities for their entrepreneurship and innovation projects.
For researchers and teachers:
The opportunity to carry out collaborative research projects on topical global issues (climate, heritage, artificial intelligence, advanced materials) within dedicated platforms such as the International Canal Research Center. Access to joint funding and facilitated academic exchanges.
For ESTIA as an institution :
Strengthening its international positioning and attractiveness. Development of strategic partnerships with universities and industrial players worldwide, particularly in China. Active contribution to the definition of technical standards and public policies on sustainability issues.
ESTIA's strategic commitment
By joining the CUCM, ESTIA is confirming its strong commitment to structured Sino-international cooperation and is positioning itself as a key player in the development of joint academic and scientific projects between Europe and China, thereby promoting open and forward-looking higher education.
By joining the CUCM, ESTIA has secured a prime position to :
Accelerate innovation by collaborating with global partners on cutting-edge technologies and participating in CUCM research initiatives.
Enhance its visibility and attractiveness on an international scale, in particular through participation in flagship events such as the "Forum de Développement Universitaire des Villes-Canaux" and the "Compétition d'Innovation et d'Entrepreneuriat Étudiant".
Offer new degree exchange opportunities to its students and faculty, through mobility and talent development programmes.
This initiative marks a significant step in ESTIA's international development strategy, in line with the challenges of sustainability and digital transformation that are shaping the world of tomorrow.