From 11 to 15 May, a five-member delegation led by Ms. Jin Yan, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of the Central Academy of Drama (CAD), visited LASALLE College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), and China Cultural Centre in Singapore. The delegation include Ms. Ju Ping, Director of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Tian Xu, Deputy Director of Development and Planning, Ms Wu Chunchao from Party Committee’s Office/Office of the President, and Ms. Chen Yi from Foreign Affairs Office.

The delegation first visited LASALLE College of the Arts, where they held discussions with Dr. Venka Purushothaman (Deputy President and Provost), Professor Leon Rubin (Dean, Faculty of Performing Arts), and Melissa Quek (Head, School of Dance and Theatre). Colleagues from the Division of Quality, Planning and Global Engagement also attended the meeting.

Dr. Purushothaman warmly welcomed the CAD delegation on behalf of LASALLE. He stated that LASALLE aims to cultivate students’ innovative thinking and practical capabilities, focusing on the growth of young artists. He expressed hope that, against the backdrop of globalisation, both institutions could jointly explore development paths and collaboration opportunities for art in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). Ms. Jin Yan noted that LASALLE is a key international strategic partner of CAD. She emphasised that while AI brings challenges and opportunities to arts education, it is essential to embrace technological innovation while upholding traditional arts education values. She looked forward to future collaborations in competitive specializations, interdisciplinary exchanges, and the advocacy of cultural diversity.

Delegation visiting LASALLE College of the Arts

Following the talks, the delegation toured LASALLE’s performance areas and exhibition spaces, and observed rehearsals by dance students.

Delegation touring LASALLE College of the Arts

On 13 May, the delegation visited NAFA and held talks with Dr. Ernest Lim (Dean, Faculty of Performing Arts), Dr. Nellie Sng (Associate Dean, School of Music of the Music Department), and Rei Poh (Associate Dean, School of Theatre). The Programme Leader of Mandarin Drama) and colleagues from the Strategic Development and Global Engagement Division also attended the meeting.

Delegation meeting with NAFA representatives

Dr. Lim shared that NAFA’s mission is to cultivate well-rounded theatre arts professionals, with a strong focus on students’ career development and practical skills. He highlighted that 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership between NAFA and CAD, expressing hope to use this milestone to elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights. Ms. Ms. Jin Yan introduced CAD’s recent achievements in academic and teaching development. She commended NAFA’s position as a founding member of ATEC and highlighted its successful hosting of the 8th ATEC International Forum. She reaffirmed both institutions’ commitment to enhancing cooperation in Chinese-language theatre and building a globally recognised platform for Asian arts education.

Delegation at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts

On May 14, the delegation visited the Singapore China Cultural Centre, holding talks with Kong Yuan, Director of the Centre. As a cultural institution established by the Chinese government in Singapore, the Singapore China Cultural Centre has been committed to promoting cultural exchanges between China and Singapore since its founding in 2015. Through art exhibitions, educational programs, and other initiatives, it has built a platform for cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Kong Yuan warmly welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the Central Academy of Drama's (CAD) cultural mission and contributions in advancing artistic education exchanges between the two countries. Jin Yan emphasized that CAD remains dedicated to cultivating a new generation of artistic talents with a "Chinese ethos." She expressed hopes to strengthen collaboration with the Centre, contributing CAD's expertise to deepen China-Singapore cultural ties and foster mutual understanding.

Discussion with Singapore China Cultural Centre

Following the discussion, Jin Yan and her delegation toured the Centre's facilities, including its exhibition hall, theatre, library, and classrooms, guided by staff members.

CAD Delegation at Singapore China Cultural Centre

This visit underscored CAD’s strategic efforts to advance high-quality global partnerships. It reinforced ties with ATEC member institutions and achieved consensus on innovation in AI-era arts education and cross-cultural talent development. Moving forward, CAD aims to leverage ATEC’s platform to expand its international network, elevate global engagement, and cultivate artists with a global perspective.