A Foundation Built on Shared Purpose
King’s College London signed its first agreement with NVHC (formerly Nanjing Health School) in 2015, establishing a joint vision to raise the standards of nursing education in China. By 2021, the initial collaboration had achieved its intended goals: over 800 nurses had completed Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programmes, and NVHC students were beginning to enter our undergraduate and postgraduate degree pathways.
Following this success, a second five-year agreement was signed in May 2022. Since then, our work together has expanded to include faculty development, curriculum integration, and increased opportunities for study.
A Global Vision in Action
To date, 37 students from NVHC have completed their top up BSc Nursing studies at King’s. Many have progressed into postgraduate study, and 12 more students are set to enroll in September 2025. Notably, three NVHC teachers from Nanjing have now completed their PhDs at King’s, further strengthening academic links between the two institutions.
This partnership has not only impacted individuals; it has also strategically enhanced King’s global profile by expanding engagement beyond traditional university partnerships. The collaboration with NVHC represents a deeper, more applied form of international cooperation, positioning King’s as a key contributor to the development of nursing education in Asia.
Challenges and Looking Forward
As with any long-standing partnership, our collaboration with NVHC has naturally evolved over time. In the early years, practical obstacles such as time zone differences, language barriers, and cultural nuances in communication and educational approaches required thoughtful and adaptive approaches. The pandemic introduced layers of complexity for delivery which challenged the resilience of both partners.
As the focus continues to evolve and NVHC defines their future aspirations, both parties will work together to shape the future. King’s remains dedicated to supporting the sustainability and enduring success of the partnership.
By continuing to work closely with our colleagues in Nanjing, we aim to expand educational opportunities, support academic and professional development, and contribute meaningfully to the evolution of healthcare education.
This 10-year milestone is a testament to what can be achieved through shared purpose and global collaboration — and we’re only just getting started.