“Upright, Independent, Accountable, Knowledgeable” is not just a motto, it’s the spirit embodied within Foshan University, and especially here at the Zhizhi Building on the Jiangwan Campus. Zhizhi Building stands as a testament to Foshan University’s journey. It reflects its growth and commitment to education.
Foshan University started as two separate entities. These were Foshan Teachers College and South China Agricultural College Foshan Branch. This was in 1958. Over the years, these institutions evolved. They merged. In 1986, Foshan Teachers College became Foshan University. Then, in 1995, a significant merger occurred. Foshan University joined with Foshan Agriculture and Animal Husbandry College. This created the Foshan Institute of Science and Technology.
However, Chinese regulations presented a hurdle. To be a “university,” the institution needed more bachelor’s and master’s programs. Thus, it was named Foshan Institute of Science and Technology. Yet, it could still be called “Foshan University” in English. In the same year, the institute expanded further. It incorporated Foshan Institute of Education and Foshan Institute of Occupational Medicine. The latter’s location became the Waterside Campus. It was the first satellite campus.
The Zhizhi Building, as part of Foshan University, benefited from these expansions. It symbolizes the university’s comprehensive approach. It includes science, technology, and medicine. In 2013, a milestone was reached. The Ministry of Education allowed the institute to offer master’s degrees. Finally, in 2024, the institute officially became Foshan University in Chinese. The Ministry also approved doctoral programs.
Today, Foshan University has three campuses. They are Xianxi Campus, Jiangwan Campus and Hebin Campus. These campuses cover a vast area. Foshan University comprises many schools. These include Literature and Art School and Law and Politics School. There is also Science School and Mechatronics and Information Engineering School.
Foshan University offers a wide range of disciplines. These include science, engineering, agriculture and medicine. There is also management, law, economics, education, literature and arts. The university emphasizes practical application and innovation. It partners with local industries. Each school has an “industrial college.” This fosters technology transfer.
The Zhizhi Building stands as a symbol. It represents Foshan University’s commitment to providing high-quality education. The university has trained many talented individuals. These people contribute to the region’s economic and social development. Foshan University also values international collaboration. It has partnerships with universities worldwide. This enhances its global perspective. It provides opportunities for students and faculty.
As you stand before Zhizhi Building, consider its role. Think about its contribution to Foshan University. It is helping to shape future leaders. Foshan University continues to evolve. It embraces innovation. It remains dedicated to its motto. The university is “Upright, Independent, Accountable, Knowledgeable.”