江苏留学网

The first forum gathering 200 young academics from research institutes across the Taiwan Straits opens in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu province, on Sept 22. [Photo/nuist.edu.cn]

The first forum -- gathering some 200 young academics from research institutes across the Taiwan Straits -- opened in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu province on Sept 22. 

With its debut focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), the forum aims to lead academic exchanges and scientific innovation between young scholars from the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, and further strengthen friendships and cultural ties. 

Cheng Tsang-hsing, vice president at the Chung Hua University in Taiwan, said his school has been dedicated to infusing AI vitality into the campus, such as opening AI experience centers and related classes. 

"AI is playing an ever-important role in people's daily lives; our universities should join hands to embrace the era of AI", Cheng said. 

Academicians Chai Tianyou and Wu Qingming made key speeches at the forum, with heard 25 reports covering topics like evolutionary computation, block chain, unmanned driving, in-depth learning, robotics and intelligent education and healthcare. 

The host school, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology (NUIST), unveiled its new AI college at the forum. The first group of 40 freshmen will soon start their campus life. 

NUIST has enjoyed closer ties with Taiwan in recent years, forging cooperation with over 20 Taiwan higher learning institutions and bringing groups of students and teachers to the other side of the Straits. 

Several Taiwan professionals have also joined NUIST's faculty.