More than 200 students enrolled in Dalhousie’s English for Specific Academic Purposes (ESAP) program participated in a two-day poster presentation showcase at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU).
The students shared research projects and demonstrated the scholarly and communication skills they have developed through the Dalhousie–FAFU Joint College's 4+0 joint degree program.
For many students, the event represented more than a program requirement — it was an opportunity to recognize how far they had come.
“If this event had not been organized, we would never have known how fluent they have become,” said Frank Cheang, a faculty member at the Dalhousie–FAFU Joint College.
Organized by Dalhousie ESAP instructor Arooj Farooqi, with support from FAFU instructors and administrators, the event provided students with an opportunity to share their research, engage with peers and faculty, and participate in a formal symposium.
I cannot believe I can speak English fluently. I now have so much confidence in myself.
The showcase was the culmination of two years of work by students and instructors to develop discippline-specific English, research, and academic communication skills.
“I cannot believe I can speak English fluently. I now have so much confidence in myself,” said Gu Hang, a landscape architecture student,
Chen Zuying, an agricultural economics and management student, shared a similar sentiment. “I was nervous, but my teachers' trust brought me here,” she said.
Recognition from university leadership
Presentations were delivered across a wide range of disciplines, highlighting the diversity of interests within the program.
“I am happy to see the students speaking English while explaining their research,” said Prof. Lyu Jian, acting dean of the International College, part of FAFU that oversees the 4+0 language program.
Dr. Ayesha Mushtaq, director of the English Language Studies Department and University Access Programs at Dalhousie, said poster presentations serve as a core component of the ESAP learning experience.
“Students engage in an intensive 12-week cycle of research, reading, synthesis, and writing — culminating in both a formal report and a professional poster presentation,” said Dr. Mushtaq.
Dr. Mushtaq acknowledged the contributions of Dalhousie and FAFU faculty and staff, including Instructional Design and Curriculum Manager Tracy Franz, instructors Sarah Blenkhorn and Arooj Farooqi, Dean Jennifer Hann of Open Learning & Career Development, and FAFU leadership.
The Dalhousie English Language Studies Department provides language and academic support for articulation and joint programs delivered both on campus and internationally. Within the 4+0 model, students receive discipline-specific language and academic skills development aligned with Dalhousie standards.
“The success of the event reflects the strong collaboration between Dalhousie and FAFU faculty and staff,” said Dr. Mushtaq. “Their coordination made it possible to deliver a large-scale academic showcase that celebrated student achievement while strengthening the partnership between our institutions.”