China visit strengthens research and educational collaborations

On her first stop in Beijing, from 11 – 12 September, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell and her delegation met with key partners and institutions, including Peking University Health Science Center, China Scholarship Council, National Natural Science Foundation Council, to enhance the significant collaborations in research and teaching in China. She looks forward to strengthening academic and research collaboration in the future. Professor Rothwell also delivered a speech on the theme of ‘A Life in Science’ during her visit to Peking University.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell (left) and Professor Gong Qihuang (right), President of Peking University

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell delivered a Keynote Speech at Peking University

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell and The University delegation visited National Natural Science Foundation Council in Beijing

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell (left) and Sheng Jianxue (right), Party Secretary and Secretary-General of China Scholarship Council

In the evening of 11 September, an alumni reception in Beijing was hosted by the President for over 200 alumni, where Nancy shared the university’s latest achievement. Nancy mentioned earlier this year, the UK government announced a new prize for artificial intelligence named after The University of Manchester’s invention of the first stored-program computer in 1948. It will be known as ‘The Manchester Prize.’

Beijing Alumni Reception

Celebrating the 15th anniversary of the China Centre

On 13 September, Professor Rothwell toured the new premises of The University of Manchester China Centre in Shanghai. Ms. Sherry Fu, Founding Director of the China Centre hosted the visit and introduced the Centre’s low-carbon office project, support for the delivery of Global MBA, and online-blended Masters courses such as MA Education Leadership in Practice, MSc Financial Management, Centre’s cultural activities, social impact to the President and her delegation. Professor Rothwell says she is impressed by the ambition and growth of China Centre in the past 15 years. She also appreciated the support from the China Centre to ensure the best experience for all University students and alumni, and to contribute to a broader landscape of transnational education.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell and the University delegation with China Centre Team

While in Shanghai, Professor Rothwell also met with the leadership team of Shanghai Jiao Tong University and exchanged thoughts on collaboration opportunities between the two universities in the future.

Professor Rothwell also hosted an Alumni Gala Dinner on the evening of 13 September for over 300 alumni across the country and distinguished guests to celebrate the 15th anniversary of The University of Manchester China Centre.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell delivered the opening speech at Alumni Gala Dinner in Shanghai

Professor Rothwell especially mentioned the upcoming University’s bicentenary celebration and welcomed alumni in China to celebrate this significant milestone for the University in 2024.

“It was wonderful to meet our alumni in Beijing and Shanghai. At The University of Manchester, our alumni continue to be a part of our community, long after graduation. And we’re always proud to see Chinese alumni shining in their fields after their graduation, in China, the UK, and other places in the world,” said Professor Rothwell.

On campus, the University has more than 9,700 Chinese students who bring their energy, culture, and knowledge to Manchester. Around China, the university has an extensive network of over 40,000 alumni and provides active partners for business and education.

Shanghai Alumni Gala Dinner and China Centre's 15th Anniversary

Looking ahead – a bright future

Commenting on her trip, Professor Rothwell said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to visit China again to reconnect with our partners and to celebrate with our esteemed alumni. The University of Manchester prides itself on being a truly international university.”

The President’s visit presents an invaluable opportunity to consolidate the University’s ongoing collaboration with institutions in China and the strong links with the alumni community in the region.