On April 10, 2025, a delegation from Tencent Cloud visited the School of Media and Communication (SMC) at Shenzhen University (SZU) to explore innovative pathways for cultivating the next generation of AI-powered communication professionals. The meeting was attended by Dean Naipeng Chao, Associate Dean Huaxin Peng, Head of the Department of Advertising Yan Zhang, and Head of the Department of Internet & New Media Bolin Cao. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, including AI-integrated curriculum innovation, industry-academia resource integration, and the launch of the “Teng Class,” a joint SZU-Tencent Media Innovation program for undergraduate students.

The Tencent Cloud team opened with a macro-level analysis of national policy in the context of the ongoing AI development and the evolving demands on journalism and communication education in the age of AI-Generated Content (AIGC). They proposed a co-establishment of the SZU-Tencent Cloud AIGC Smart Communications Industry Academy, outlining a three-pillar framework for cultivating AI-driven communication talents.

Dean Naipeng Chao shared an overview of SMC’s current talent development structure and the challenges it faces in adapting to an AI-driven landscape. He emphasized the school’s commitment to revising the existing talent cultivation model and strategically integrating academic and industry resources to ensure students gain hands-on experience with AI tools and workflows relevant to the evolving media industry.

        Following in-depth discussions, both parties agreed on a collaboration plan and outlined next steps. This partnership marks a significant step forward for SMC and Tencent Cloud in jointly shaping a new generation of communication professionals equipped to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the AI era.