University receives Chinese honour

The University has received a special award for encouraging relations with China.

At the sixth global Confucius Institute conference in Beijing, University Principal Professor Sir Timothy O’Shea was awarded a special Gold Medal to mark the outstanding contribution of the Confucius Institute for Scotland in developing cultural, education and business links between Scotland and China.

The award was received by the Director of the Confucius Institute for Scotland, Professor Natascha Gentz, at a special ceremony held in the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

The recognition follows the four consecutive annual awards of the title 'Confucius Institute of the Year' that have been received by the Confucius Institute for Scotland.

Leading activities

The Confucius Institute for Scotland at the University of Edinburgh was established in 2005 as a partnership between the University and Fudan University in Shanghai.

The Institute works to act as a bridge between Scotland and China, aiding understanding and facilitating engagement.

It also offers an extensive programme of Chinese language training and works with stakeholders to develop greater awareness of China in Scotland.

Strong ties

The University of Edinburgh has relationships with more than 50 top Chinese institutions.

It also established a China Office in 2005 to support its strategic relationship with China.

It has long-term partnerships with staff and students at Peking University, where a joint Masters in Law programme sits alongside joint research projects on history, medicine, politics and philosophical studies.