Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and the German Sport University Cologne have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration in sports education and research.

Professor Jürgen Mittag, dean of the Institute of European Sport Development and Leisure Studies, visited HUST on Sept 28, and delivered a lecture titled “German Sports: Clubs and Volunteering as the Foundation of Sports Development”.

The two universities agreed to strengthen their cooperation in student exchange programs, joint research, scholar visits, and international conferences. Professor Mittag and Professor Sun Jingbo, dean of HUST’s School of Physical Education, signed the memorandum, opening new international pathways for students and talent development.

In his lecture, Professor Mittag shared insights into the history and structure of German sports clubs, emphasizing the crucial role of volunteerism in maintaining these organizations. He drew comparisons with volunteer development in China and addressed current trends and challenges facing sports organizations today.

During the Q&A session, students asked questions on topics such as inclusion in sports volunteering, the role of AI in club management, and public sports policies in Germany. Professor Mittag also introduced ongoing research projects and summer courses at the German Sport University Cologne, inviting students and faculty to take part in future exchanges.

This visit marks the third academic exchange between the two institutions, which have kept a seven-year partnership in sports studies.

Source: School of Physical Education of HUST