Second ICOMOS University Forum for Cultural Heritage in China
On 20 September, Tianjin University hosted the Second ICOMOS University Forum for Cultural Heritage, in collaboration with ICOMOS China and ICOMOS Nepal. More than 100 experts, scholars, and students from 9 countries (China, France, Nepal, Italy, the UK, Japan, Republic of Korea, Belgium, and Indonesia) participated in the event. Structured around the theme “Cultural Heritage – Interdisciplinary Innovation,” it provided an opportunity for attendees to explore new approaches for heritage protection, research, and education.
The event opened with congratulatory remarks by ICOMOS Vice President Leonardo Castriota, who brought attention to the forum’s importance for global cooperation and knowledge-sharing in the heritage sector. Song Xinchao, President of ICOMOS China, then discussed “interdisciplinary innovation” as a key method for addressing the growing complexity of heritage issues and encouraging sustainable development. Inu Pradhan Salike, Vice President of ICOMOS Nepal, expressed her hopes for deepened regional collaboration. Finally, Professor Wang Tianyou, Vice President of Tianjin University, extended a warm welcome to all guests and highlighted the university’s commitment to promoting interdisciplinary integration.
The programme featured three sessions on the following themes:
- Policy making and management for cultural heritage conservation.
- Interdisciplinary innovation for heritage research and conservation practices.
- Reconstruction of the cultural heritage education system from a global perspective.
Among the speakers were leading academics, heritage managers, and international experts. They presented case studies on topics ranging from landscape-based management strategies and innovative conservation technologies, to the future of conservation education and international cooperation. ICOMOS France Director Isabelle Palmi gave examples of integrated landscape management used as a tool for ecological and social transformation in France. Soehardi Hartono, President of ICOMOS Indonesia, presented innovative strategies for reviving historic civic squares, applying the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach. Government representatives, heritage managers and scholars engaged in lively roundtable discussions.
The day following the forum, participants visited the Guangdong Guild Hall, the Wudadao Historic Area, and Prince Qing’s Mansion to learn about Tianjin’s achievements in restoration, adaptive reuse, and historic district management. Forum Chair Professor Zhang Chunyan concluded the event by summarising its outcomes and passing the forum flag to Tongji University, which will host the 3rd University Forum in 2026.
