The Lifelong Learning Provider Award was announced at the China Schools Awards 2024 gala on 29th Feb, organised by the British Chamber of Commerce in China, the British Chamber of Commerce Southwest China, and the British Chamber of Commerce Guangdong. Sarah Mann, the British Consul-General Guangzhou, Jeremy Sargent OBE, Chairman of the British Chamber in Guangdong delivered keynote speeches at the gala dinner held in Guangzhou.

Left: Sarah Mann, the British Consul-General Guangzhou

Right: Jeremy Sargent OBE,Chairman of the British Chamber in Guangdong

As an annual highlight in the international education sector, over one hundred international educational institutions and corporates from across the country competed for eleven awards related to international education. The University of Manchester China Centre successfully won the Lifelong Learning Provider Award.

Mike Jones, Chairman of the Education Committee of the British Chamber in Guangdong presented the award

The award was presented by Mike Jones, Chairman of the Education Working Group of the British Chamber in Guangdong. He remarked that education should not be limited. While schools strive to provide holistic education to their students, it is equally significant for educators themselves to have opportunities for professional development. The concept of Lifelong Learning enables education to benefit the wider community and every member of humanity, which underscores the importance of this award.

Sherry Fu, Founding Director of UoM China Centre at the award speech

Upon receiving the award, Sherry Fu, Founding Director of the China Centre, noted that as The University of Manchester celebrates its bicentenary, and the city of Manchester is recognised by UNESCO as a Lifelong Learning City, this award is particularly meaningful. The accolade recognises the University of Manchester China Centre's commitment, since its inception in 2008, to empowering the development of international management talent. The part-time Education Leadership in Practice Master course launched in 2021 has facilitated many educators’ professional development and career goals. Educators, through continuous learning and the systematic development of leadership skills, along with the expansion of international perspectives, facilitate not only personal growth but also enhance organisational decision-making and industrial development, thus empowering a larger community.

Learning is a valuable pursuit that requires investment and dedication. Looking forward, China Centre will continue to support University’s flexible learning strategies and introduce more transnational blended courses from the University of Manchester to the region, integrating local resources and connecting the global alumni network to empower individuals and organisations through authentic Manchester education experience.