Celebrating a Decade of Success: TU Dublin-Hainan University joint BSc Event Management Graduation in Haikou, China
On 14 June 2025, TU Dublin proudly marked a significant milestone - the 10th anniversary of its collaborative BSc in Event Management degree programme with Hainan University - celebrated during the final-year graduation ceremony in Haikou, China.
Led by Dr Dominic Dillane, a delegation of six representatives from the School of Tourism Hospitality Management and the International Office travelled to Hainan to join students, staff, and alumni in celebrating this remarkable achievement. Dr Dillane, who initiated the partnership in 2012, was warmly welcomed back to the island, having laid the foundation for what has become a flagship transnational education programme for TU Dublin.
Over the past decade, the joint programme - now led by Dr Ralf Burbach - has graduated 678 students and currently supports 386 students across all years. Alumni have gone on to postgraduate study in many parts of the world or work in leading roles across China’s thriving tourism and events sectors, a testament to the quality and relevance of the programme’s industry-focused education. This is the first and oldest transnational programme in the Province of Hainan.
Hainan, known as China’s “MICE Island” (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), has emerged as a major destination for tourism and international events. With its tropical climate, world-class resorts, and strategic location, Hainan offers a dynamic environment for students pursuing careers in event and hospitality management. The island’s rapid development and government-backed initiatives to promote international tourism and large-scale events provide a living classroom for our students to learn, network, and grow professionally.
As we celebrate this 10-year partnership, TU Dublin remains committed to deepening its collaboration with Hainan University and expanding opportunities for students to gain global perspectives and industry-relevant skills. Here’s to the next decade of innovation, growth, and student success!