On August 26, 2023, Harbin Engineering University (HEU) held the inaugural meeting for the creation of Strategic Advisory Committee for the Academic Subject of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering and the first committee meeting. The committee consists of 11 academicians in the field of naval architecture and ocean engineering from China and various countries overseas. Via a hybrid mode of online and physical meeting, the committee was created to provide strategic advice and recommendations for the development of the academic subject of naval architecture and ocean engineering.

Professor Yao Yu, president of HEU, in his formal address, extends heartfelt congratulations on the creation of the committee. He extends a warm welcome to all the distinguished experts and scholars on the committee, expressing sincere appreciation for their enduring care, support, and assistance in the development and advancement of the university.

Professor Li Ye, dean of the College of Shipbuilding Engineering of HEU, delivered a formal presentation entitled “Consultation on the Development Strategy of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering Discipline”. The comprehensive report, addressing International Development of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering Discipline, Current Status of College of Shipbuilding Engineering and Pragmatic Reforms in Response to Opportunities, highlighted the college’s innovative initiatives and accomplishments in areas such as education, scientific research, faculty development, international collaboration, and societal contribution. The presentation emphasized the college’s commitment to benchmarking against international standards of excellence and outlined its future development plans with precision.

The members of the committee addressed status quo and challenges in the current international development of the subject of naval architecture and ocean engineering. They discussed the qualities and capabilities that future leaders in the field of naval architecture and ocean engineering should possess, as well as the directions and trends in the future development of maritime science and technology. The members provided recommendations for the development of the subject of naval architecture and ocean engineering in light of these considerations.