HSE University’s Faculty of Creative Industries visits Communication University of Zhejiang

On September 15 – 16, 2025, a delegation from HSE University’s Faculty of Creative Industries visited the Communication University of Zhejiang (CUZ), touring the Hangzhou and Tongxiang campuses, meeting with university leadership and faculty, reviewing campus infrastructure, and discussing prospects for academic and project-based cooperation.

At Hangzhou, the parties held an official meeting that followed July’s talks in Moscow and reaffirmed prior agreements. They exchanged signed copies of a memorandum of understanding, discussed joint educational and research initiatives, and reviewed a shared digital platform already engaging students and faculty from both universities. At the close, Professor Kang, Dean of the School of Design, and Professor Liu Yajing — jury members for craft and photography competitions — received diplomas and letters of appreciation from HSE’s Institute for Creative Industries Development and the HSE ART AND DESIGN SCHOOL.

Before the meeting, CUZ students led a tour for Natalia Logutova, Deputy Director of HSE’s Institute for Creative Industries Development. The itinerary included media workshops and labs, the esports and game design center, and recording and broadcasting studios supporting the full game development cycle and preparing international events. The congress center, university museum, and cohesive campus-wide visual identity were particular highlights.

The next day in Tongxiang, the delegation met with teams from communication design, product design, and photography, and held a student session presenting HSE Creative International — an initiative supporting global careers in the creative industries. Discussions focused on dual-degree pathways, the use of digital infrastructure to showcase student projects and commercialize outcomes, and upcoming joint events. As a token of partnership, CUZ received illustrated calendars by alumna and Design Laboratory art director Maria Kulagina, showcasing HSE’s digital services. Immediate plans include co-hosted competitions and workshops, with special interest in product development and launch, combining expertise from Management in Creative Industries and Product Design.

Another shared priority is work with cultural and historical heritage — integrating traditional practices and visual language into contemporary design, promoting regional identities, and building local brands. These projects bring together students from graphic design, art management, UX/UI, and industrial design to address challenges relevant to both countries.

In her remarks, Natalia Logutova highlighted initiatives that support international career pathways, strengthen small towns, and launch local brands. Examples included the Creative City digital platform and the student expedition club Zaneslo.

The visit to Hangzhou and Tongxiang reinforced the HSE – CUZ partnership. A signed memorandum, active joint projects, and planned programs have established a solid foundation for long-term collaboration and created new opportunities for students and faculty at both universities.