From Hainan to Shanghai: Clermont SB Strengthens Its Partnerships in China

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Clermont School of Business continues to expand its presence in China through a series of significant academic and institutional milestones, including the strengthening of its partnership with Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) in Hainan, graduation ceremonies, the launch of a new DBA cohort, and its first participation in the Gobi Friendship Race.

A Growing International Presence

For many years, internationalisation has been a key pillar of Clermont School of Business’s development strategy. Through its international campuses and extensive network of academic partners, the School continues to strengthen its presence in China through long-term collaborations and initiatives that foster exchanges between students, faculty members and business leaders.

May was marked by several important events that highlight the momentum of the School’s partnerships and activities across China.

Strengthening a Strategic Partnership with BLCU in Hainan

On 11 and 12 May, Clermont School of Business and Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) reached a new milestone in the development of their collaboration through the Franco-Chinese Institute (FCI) in Hainan, a joint programme delivered by the two institutions.

During their annual strategic meeting, Richard Soparnot, Dean and CEO of Clermont School of Business, and Duan Peng, President of BLCU, discussed the future development of the programme. Key topics included enhancing teaching quality, supporting the academic growth of the FCI, and preparing graduates to thrive in increasingly complex international environments.

The meeting reflects the shared ambition of both institutions to build a sustainable model of academic cooperation based on excellence, innovation and intercultural openness.

The following day, an official visit to Hainan International College brought together several French and Chinese institutional representatives, including Olivier Ngo, Science and Higher Education Attaché at the Consulate General of France in Guangzhou, and Nylam Gauthier, Head of Campus France China in Guangzhou.

The visit provided an opportunity to meet students from the first cohort of the Sino-French programme and discuss their academic experiences and professional aspirations.

Ceremonies Reflecting the Strength of International Programmes

The international development of a business school is also reflected in the success of its students and the strength of its academic partnerships.

Throughout May, Clermont School of Business organised several graduation and induction ceremonies across its various locations in China. These events brought together students, alumni, academic partners and representatives from the business community.

Speaking at these ceremonies, Richard Soparnot highlighted the importance of the personalised support provided to students throughout their academic and professional journeys, both in France and internationally.

These events also offered an opportunity to further strengthen relationships with key partners, including Fudan University in Shanghai and Boyan Philosophy & Business School in Guangzhou. They also marked the arrival of a new DBA cohort, demonstrating the growing appeal of Clermont School of Business programmes among international professionals.

First Participation in the Gobi Friendship Race 2026

One of the highlights of the year is Clermont School of Business’s participation in the Business School Gobi Friendship Race 2026.

This international challenge brings together more than 1,000 participants from leading business schools worldwide for a sporting and team-building experience in the Gobi Desert. For Clermont School of Business, this first participation represents a unique opportunity to promote the values of resilience, teamwork and global engagement.

Beyond its sporting dimension, the event also serves as a platform for academic and cultural exchange. Conferences featuring speakers from prestigious institutions such as the University of Cambridge, CEIBS and Tsinghua University further enrich the experience for participants.

A Commitment to Sustainable Development

The 2026 edition of the Gobi Friendship Race also stands out for its environmental commitment.It will become the first race organised in the Chinese desert to adopt a carbon-neutral approach through the implementation of ESG initiatives and a comprehensive net-zero strategy.This commitment reflects the growing focus within both academia and the business world on ecological transition and corporate social responsibility.

The event also supports an educational initiative benefiting local schools in Guazhou, demonstrating that performance, solidarity and positive impact can go hand in hand.

Did You Know?

China now plays a strategic role in the international development of Clermont School of Business. The School delivers several academic programmes in partnership with leading universities and leverages its campuses in Beijing and Shanghai to strengthen collaboration between students, faculty and businesses.

This presence forms part of Clermont School of Business’s broader international strategy. Today, the School works with more than 100 academic partners worldwide and operates four international campuses. Its objective is to provide students with meaningful multicultural experiences and prepare them to succeed in an increasingly globalised professional environment.