±Ê´Ç²õ³Ù±ð»å:ÌýJune 2026
The learner spotlights feature students from Open Learning & Career Development who bring a wealth of dedication and diverse perspectives to their studies, and our programs benefit greatly as they work to advance their careers.
Organized by ÈâÈ⴫ý ESAP Instructor Arooj Farooqi, with support from FAFU instructors and administrators, the event provided students with an opportunity to share their research, engage with peers and faculty, and participate in a formal academic symposium.
For many students, the event represented more than an academic requirement—it was an opportunity to recognize how far they had come. "If this event had not been organised, we would never have known how fluent they have become," said Frank Cheang, a faculty member at the ÈâÈ⴫ý–FAFU Joint College.
Gu Hang, a Landscape Architecture student, reflected on the experience, saying, "I cannot believe I can speak English fluently. I now have so much confidence in myself." Chen Zuying, an Agricultural Economics and Management student, shared a similar sentiment. "I was nervous, but my teachers' trust brought me here," she said.
Recognition from university leadership
The quality of the presentations also drew praise from senior university leaders.
"I am happy to see the students speaking English while explaining their research," said Prof. Lyu Jian, Acting Dean of the International College.
Mrs. Chen Yuexiao, Secretary of the Party Committee of the International College, described the showcase as "a very formal and well-organised academic activity," adding that "it is rare to see such engagement at this level."
Building academic and communication skills
According to Dr. Ayesha Mushtaq, Acting Director of the English Language Studies Department and University Access Programs at ÈâÈ⴫ý, poster presentations are a core component of the ESAP learning experience.
"Students engage in an intensive twelve-week cycle of research, reading, synthesis, and writing—culminating in both a formal report and a professional poster presentation," said Dr. Mushtaq.
"The ESAP program at the Joint College continues this established academic tradition in an applied international context, providing students with valuable opportunities to build confidence, communicate research findings, and engage in academic discourse in English."
Dr. Mushtaq acknowledged the contributions of ÈâÈ⴫ý and FAFU faculty and staff, including Instructional Design and Curriculum Manager Tracy Franz, instructors Sarah Blenkhorn and Arooj Farooqi, Dean Jennifer Hann of Open Learning and Career Development, and FAFU leadership.
"The success of the event reflects the strong collaboration between ÈâÈ⴫ý and FAFU faculty and staff," said Dr. Mushtaq. "Their coordination made it possible to deliver a large-scale academic showcase that celebrated student achievement while strengthening the partnership between our institutions."
The event also highlighted the collaboration that supports the ÈâÈ⴫ý–FAFU Joint College.
The ÈâÈ⴫ý English Language Studies Department provides language and academic support for articulation and joint programs delivered both on campus and internationally. Within the 4+0 model, students receive discipline-specific language and academic skills development aligned with ÈâÈ⴫ý standards.