
The delegation poses for a group photo at a local company in Germany. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]
From Dec 5 to 12, a delegation of 14 faculty members and students from the College of Economics and Management at Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) visited the University of Göttingen in Germany. This academic exchange focused on investigating European pathways for green agricultural transformation and industrial innovation mechanisms through seminars, field research, and cultural visits.
The program commenced with high-level academic discussions hosted by the University of Göttingen. Dr. Elisa Bayer shared systematic insights into the evolution of animal welfare in Germany and the EU, highlighting policy challenges in balancing welfare standards with industrial competitiveness. Professor Dela-Dem Fiankor analyzed the restructuring of global agricultural value chains and international food standards, exploring opportunities for emerging economies like China. Additionally, Professor Yu Xiaohua detailed the university's historical development and the profound impact of higher education innovation on European agricultural modernization.
To gain a more practical understanding, the delegation conducted on-site investigations, which were led by Professor Yu. At the Reinshof Farm, an experimental base for ecology and agriculture operated by the university, the group inspected advanced machinery and studied management models that balance large-scale farming with ecological protection. At the Relliehausen Farm, the delegation focused on intensive livestock farming combined with waste-to-energy systems, observing a circular demonstration model that integrates "breeding, energy, and fertilizer".
The visit concluded with tours of the Gotion Germany Battery factory and the University of Göttingen's forestry laboratory.
By bridging theoretical research with industrial application, this exchange strengthened HZAU's international academic ties and provided valuable perspectives on sustainable agricultural development and circular economy systems.