In a move towards technological innovation, Fudan University and Jiangnan Shipyard, a shipbuilding company based in Shanghai, have inked a strategic cooperative agreement to establish a Ship + AI (artificial intelligence) Joint Laboratory. This partnership aims to propel research and development in intelligent ship technologies, marking a significant step forward in the maritime industry.

The agreement, signed on Dec 23, outlines a joint effort between the two institutions to nurture a new generation of skilled engineers specializing in ship design and manufacturing. By combining academic expertise with industry knowledge, Fudan University and Jiangnan Shipyard seek to cultivate talent tailored to meet the evolving demands of the shipbuilding sector.

Jin Li, president of Fudan University, expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative platform, emphasizing the university's strong foundation in basic research and Jiangnan Shipyard's operational capabilities. He highlighted the laboratory's potential to translate research findings into tangible outcomes and drive innovation in the field, ultimately leading to the development of cutting-edge products.

Lin Ou, Party secretary and chairman of Jiangnan Shipyard, hailed the agreement as a significant milestone in the shared journey of cooperation and growth. By merging advancements in engineering education with shipbuilding expertise, he believes that the integration of AI technologies into vessels will be streamlined. Lin envisions that through this collaboration, breakthroughs in key technologies will be achieved, paving the way for innovative applications in the construction of intelligent ships and the cultivation of skilled professionals adept at navigating smart vessels.

Gu Yingjie contributed to this story.