Peking University, December 9, 2024: Fang Fang, Vice President of Peking University (PKU), recently led a delegation to the United Kingdom (UK) from November 25 to 29. They visited University College London (UCL), the Confucius Institute at the UCL Institute of Education, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Rhodes Trust, and HSBC Business School.
Fang Fang was received by David Coen at UCL
The delegation was received by UCL Assistant Vice President David Coen on November 26. In his address, Fang Fang highlighted the meaningful exchanges between the two institutions and highlighted possible areas of collaboration. David Coen underscored the strategic partnership between UCL and PKU, expressing hope for enhanced collaboration to forge a stronger global influence in education and research together.
On 26 November, Fang Fang attended the board meeting of the Confucius Institute at the UCL Institute of Education. He offered high praise for the recent achievements made by the Institute and expressed gratitude for the staunch support of UCL.
Signing of Agreement with Confucius Institute
Following the meeting, the two parties signed an agreement to promote quality Chinese language and culture courses in the UK, strengthening career development training and enhancing the Institute’s influence on cultural and educational exchanges between the UK and China.
On 27 November, the delegation visited the University of Cambridge, where they were received by Chairperson Laura Moretti at the Institute of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Acting Director John Moffett at the Needham Research Institute and President Alan Short at Clare Hall. At the Institute of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, they engaged with the academic body and reflected upon the success of the collaborative efforts between with two institutions.
PKU delegation visits Institute of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
PKU delegation in a discussion with UK counterparts at the University of Oxford
The delegation also visited the University of Oxford, where they engaged in discussions with their UK counterparts, led by Vice President Alex Betts, on solutions to global challenges and strategies for promoting sustainable development. Vice President Betts praised the strong partnerships between the two universities and proposed avenues for further collaboration.
PKU delegation was received by Elizabeth Kiss at the Rhodes Trust
On 28 November, Fang Fang called on the Warden of Rhodes Trust, Elizabeth Kiss. He highlighted the importance of the Rhodes Scholarship in promoting educational and cultural exchange between China and the UK, deepening ties between the two countries. Elizabeth Kiss affirmed that the Rhodes Trust will continue to support Peking University and other institutions in jointly cultivating future leaders with strong public awareness and global influence.
Fang Fang speaking to faculty and student representatives of PKU UK campus
The final visit made by the delegation was to PKU’s UK campus, where a discussion with faculty and student representatives was held. They were received by Professor Hai Wen, former PKU Vice President and founding dean of the HSBC Business School. During the meeting, Fang Fang engaged in in-depth discussions with the campus team on key topics such as academic priorities, development plans, and key infrastructure development.
Written by: Wong Jun Heng
Edited by: Phoon Hui Yin, Andrena
Source: PKU News (Chinese)
