International Museum Management Training Course Concludes Successfully in Hangzhou, China

Successful Conclusion of the International Museum Management Course in Hangzhou

The International Training Course on Strategies and Tools for Collections Management came to a successful close in Hangzhou, China, on April 25, 2025. This course, which was co-organized by the National Cultural Heritage Administration of China (NCHA), the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), and the Asian Cultural Heritage Alliance (ACHA), was hosted at the China National Silk Museum with support from the Asian Fund for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

Over a span of 12 days, the course provided an immersive learning experience for 37 participants from nearly 30 countries and regions. Trainees explored vital topics like collection management, museum strategy, international cooperation, and more. With 18 distinguished speakers from around the world leading the sessions, the program featured lectures, group discussions, practical workshops, and field visits, fostering a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building.

A key focus of the course was sustainable museum management, addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and the necessity for international collaboration. Innovative approaches to preventive conservation, risk management, and digital collection management were emphasized, encouraging participants to share their local challenges and solutions, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.

Field visits to significant cultural institutions in Hangzhou, including the Liangzhu Museum, the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, and the Kuahuqiao Site Museum, provided hands-on insights into museum development in China, exhibition design, and the integration of new technologies. Participants had the opportunity to engage with local museum professionals, enriching their understanding of how to apply similar strategies back in their home institutions.

One of the program's highlights was a comprehensive tour of the National Key Scientific Research Base for Textile Conservation at the China National Silk Museum. This visit allowed participants to observe meticulous textile conservation processes and explore the museum's testing and analysis laboratories. It underscored the essential role of conservation science and interdisciplinary research in preserving fragile textile heritage while fostering opportunities for international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

This training course marked the first instance of the China National Silk Museum hosting an international training program in partnership with ICCROM. It represents a significant milestone for the museum as it evolves into a crucial platform for international exchange, professional development, and regional cooperation in cultural heritage preservation.

As the world continues to face new challenges, the knowledge shared during this course will undoubtedly influence museum practices globally, enhancing the sector's ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

In conclusion, the successful culmination of this course not only reflects the commitment of the participating organizations to museum management excellence but also paves the way for future collaborations focused on preserving our global cultural heritage.