From 5 to 7 November 2025, the Faculty of Education and Human Development (FEHD) at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) and the Faculty of Education at East China Normal University (ECNU) co-hosted the Fourth Asian Education Doctoral Student Institute (AEDSI) in hybrid mode on ECNU’s Putuo Campus in Shanghai.
This year’s theme, “Navigating Your Doctoral Journey in the Era of AI: Community, Creativity, Career,” attracted more than 140 participants, including 28 on-site attendees from 11 institutions across six regions, and over 110 online participants from across Asia and beyond.
The programme was coordinated by a joint committee of EdUHK and ECNU doctoral students, guided by Dr Li Jianbin, Associate Head (Community Engagement), Department of Early Childhood Education, EdUHK, and Prof Shen Wei, Assistant Dean, Faculty of Education, ECNU. Twelve invited scholars from institutions including EdUHK, ECNU, the University of Kansas, Durham University, Nanjing University, and the Southern University of Science and Technology contributed to sessions on academic networking, AI‑enhanced research competencies, and evolving career opportunities. A highlight was a visit to UBTECH’s robotics exhibition, where participants experienced the latest humanoid robotics and AI innovations.
The Institute opened with remarks by Prof Chen Shuangye of ECNU and Dr Emma Buchtel of FEHD, who both emphasised the significance of research communities in an era of rapid technological change. Dr Buchtel also presented on cultural adaptation and wise reasoning in the age of AI.
Dr Yang Weipeng, Associate Professor in EdUHK’s Department of Early Childhood Education, delivered talks on emerging directions in AI and education research, along with practical advice for doctoral students aiming to publish in leading academic journals.
Concluding the event, Prof Shen and Dr Li reflected on the Institute’s achievements in fostering a collaborative, forward-looking community of young scholars. They encouraged participants to continue pursuing interdisciplinary dialogue and global engagement.
FEHD remains dedicated to nurturing doctoral talent and strengthening international academic partnerships. The successful 4th AEDSI further demonstrates our commitment to supporting the next generation of educational researchers.
