On 18 March 2026, the University of Manchester held its first overseas graduation celebration, bringing together nearly 1,000 graduates along with their families and friends in Shanghai to mark this important milestone.

Vice-Chancellor Duncan Ivison attended in person to preside the ceremony, leading a university delegation that included Professor Angelia Wilson, Associate Vice-President (Internationalisation), as well as representatives and faculty members from the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, the Faculty of Humanities, and the China Centre.

This event not only represents a highlight in the graduates' academic journeys, but also marks a significant step forward in the University's global strategy. By hosting the event locally, the University has created a stronger sense of belonging for graduates while also supporting its 2035 sustainability goals by reducing long-distance travel.

Following a welcome address by Sherry Fu, Director of the China Centre, who introduced the agenda for the graduation celebration, Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, delivered a keynote speech. Distinguished alumnus representative Mr Francis Fan, Chairman of Langsheng Investment and Chairman of Shanghai Concord Bilingual School, and China guest speaker Professor Professor Xiangdong Mao, Vice President of the Shanghai Overseas Returned Scholars Association and President of its UK Chapter, delivered guest remarks during the first and second celebration respectively.

In his address, Professor Ivison extended his warmest congratulations to the graduates. He noted that the knowledge they had developed, the experience they had accumulated, and the capabilities they had cultivated at Manchester would not only provide a strong foundation for building their careers and achieving their aspirations, but would also equip them to respond with confidence to future challenges. The University’s first overseas graduation celebration being held in Shanghai demonstrates its strong commitment to China and its global alumni community.

Mr Francis Fan shared reflections on his study experience at The University of Manchester and his subsequent professional journey. He told graduates that Manchester had given him three invaluable gifts: the ability to think independently, lifelong friendships forged through shared experience, and enduring support from the University community. He emphasised that being empowered by a Manchester education is both a rare advantage and a meaningful responsibility, and he encouraged graduates to give back to their alma mater and carry forward the Manchester spirit in the future.

Professor Xiangdong Mao congratulated the graduates on reaching this important milestone through perseverance and dedication. He encouraged them to remain curious, resilient, and committed to making a positive impact on society, and to move forward with confidence as members of The University of Manchester’s global alumni community.

The graduate celebration event proceeded in a formal and orderly manner. Richard Quayle, Head of Students Admissions and Administration, and Janine Holdway, Head of Student Administration, supported the proceedings, while Richard Cotton, Director of International Development, announced the names of the graduates as they came to the stage one by one, each greeted with warm applause and cheers.

Graduates and their families shared this unforgettable moment together. One graduate commented:

“Being able to take part in this event in China is incredibly meaningful to me. It is the best recognition of our past efforts and a truly precious memory in my life.”

Closing: Embarking on a New Journey

At the conclusion of the event, Vice-Chancellor Duncan Ivison addressed the graduates in Mandarin: “Welcome to our family,” warmly welcoming them into the University of Manchester’s global alumni network.

He noted that they are now part of a community of over 550,000 alumni across more than 190 countries, all connected through Manchester.

He also encouraged graduates to continue exploring, embrace innovation, define their own paths, and write their own remarkable stories in the future.

As the closing music played, the university delegation exited, and graduates and guests departed in an orderly manner under the guidance of staff, bringing the event to a warm and successful conclusion.

The successful hosting of this event marks an important milestone in the University of Manchester's international development, further strengthening graduates' sense of belonging and connection to the University.

Looking ahead, the University will continue to organise graduation celebration in China. The China Centre will further serve as a bridge and hub, bringing together alumni in China and promoting international education and collaboration, supporting the development of globally minded talents.