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符合「Higher Education」新聞搜尋結果, 共 1084 篇 ,以下為 241 - 264 篇 訂閱此列表,掌握最新動態
Hong Kong Successfully Bids for the "Lions Clubs International Convention 2026" will attract a large number of visitors, expected to boost the local economy and promote intellectual exchange among international cities and GBA cities

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 August 2024 - Hong Kong, as a leading international metropolitan city in Asia, has stood out among numerous candidate cities and been elected as the host city for the "Lions Clubs International Convention 2026." This successful bid signifies Hong Kong's high international reputation, with its outstanding attractions in transportation infrastructure, legal system, personal safety, and tourism facilities. As the coordinating body, Lions Clubs International, District 303 Hong Kong and Macao, China will actively prepare over the next two years to welcome Lions and companions from around the world, showcasing Hong Kong's unique charm as an international metropolis. "Lions Clubs International Convention" attracts a significant number of Lions and their families to the host city, directly stimulating local economic activities. Simultaneously, it promotes the spirit of "We Serve," fostering a more harmonious society. Past host cities for the convention include Montreal, Canada; Milan, Italy; Fukuoka, Japan and Melbourne, Australia, among others. Leveraging Hong Kong's unique advantages and convenient transportation links with cities in the Greater Bay Area, it is believed that aside from the five-day convention and events, many visiting tourists will seize the opportunity to explore nearby cities and gain deeper insights into their development. One of the most anticipated events at the "Lions Clubs International Convention" is the grand parade, where Lions from around the world showcase local cultures in the city. In the past two conventions held in Hong Kong in 1992 and 2005, the city center was chosen for the parades, with enthusiastic participation from the citizens, making it a major event in Hong Kong. Dr. Tam Wing-kun BBS MBE JP, Honorary Chairman, LCIcon2026 cum Past International President, Lions International: Hong Kong as a vital international hub can effectively connect exchanges worldwide Dr. Tam Wing-kun, as the first and only Chinese former president of the Lions International, dedicated his life to promoting the spirit of "We Serve" to various parts of the world, especially mainland China. During his tenure, he actively promoted environmental awareness, encouraging Lions members globally to plant trees, resulting in the planting of seventeen million trees worldwide within a year. Dr. Tam also strongly advocated for the "Vision First China Action," which to date has treated 5.2 million cataract patients domestically, assisted in eliminating blinding trachoma within the country, and trained over fifty thousand medical personnel across the nation, ensuring that knowledge and services are implemented in every corner of the motherland. Dr. Tam also devoted efforts to establish Lions Club organizations domestically, with over thirty-five thousand Lions Club members in China currently. He stated, "Hong Kong is one of the very few among over 200 member countries and geographical areas that have had the opportunity to host the Lions International Convention three times. Hosting such conventions can bring various economic benefits to the host city. Due to the highly praised International Conventions held in Hong Kong in 1992 and 2005, the global Lions Club community holds Hong Kong in high regard. Hong Kong's reputation as an international city, its conference facilities, its comprehensive international and local transportation networks, and its accommodations have received high praise from the Council, leading to its victory over other contenders. This reflects the advantages of Hong Kong's exhibition industry and once again affirms the world's recognition of Hong Kong as an outstanding international city. It also shows the proactive response of Lions International District 303 Hong Kong and Macao, China to the government's call for important conference and exhibition events to be held in Hong Kong." Dr. Tam actively participated in hosting the Lions Club International Convention in Hong Kong in 1992, 2005, and 2026, leveraging the city's strengths and the efforts of District 303 Lions Club members, ensuring the success of the convention." Lion Sammy Shum, District Governor, Lions Clubs International District 303, Hong Kong and Macao, China: Showcasing the advantages of Hong Kong as the "City of Mega Events," aiming to solidify Hong Kong's status as an "International Metropolis" Lion Sammy and his team dedicated substantial time during the bidding process to present Hong Kong's advantages to the Lions Clubs International Board, ultimately succeeding among six candidate cities to host the "Lions Clubs International Convention 2026." Reflecting on this experience, he stated, "Lions Clubs, as the world's largest service organizations, always prioritize local societal needs. District 303 Hong Kong and Macao, China has been rooted in Hong Kong for around 70 years, with keen attention to the city's livelihood and economy. This successful bid aligns with the SAR government's efforts to enhance coordination of mega events, promoting a wider array of events in various themes and forms in Hong Kong, which is the primary reason for our bid for hosting the Lions Clubs International Convention this time." He anticipates that the "Lions Clubs International Convention 2026" can attract over 20,000 overseas visitors, conservatively estimating to generate over HK$400 million in direct income for Hong Kong, and hopes to enhance external promotion of Hong Kong's social stability and prosperity. Dr. Pang Yiu-kai GBS JP, Chairman, Hong Kong Tourism Board :700,000 recorded for overnight MICE arrival in the first half year The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will fully support the event being held in Hong Kong. Dr. Pang Yiu-kai stated that the HKTB has been actively bidding for and facilitating the hosting of large-scale international Meetings, Incentive trips, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) events. He mentioned that in the first half of this year, Hong Kong recorded 700,000 overnight MICE arrivals, equivalent to 80% of the level in the same period in 2018, making it the fastest recovering segment. The average expenditure per person is around HK$8,000, which is about 20-30% higher than the overall tourists. As of today, the HKTB has successfully bid for and facilitated over sixty large-scale international business events in Hong Kong to be staged this year through 2026, with an expected total attendance of at least 220,000 people, including at least 180,000 visitors from mainland China and overseas. Dr. Pang emphasized, "Hong Kong has significant advantages in MICEtourism, with its unique geographical location, well-developed infrastructure, and comprehensive professional services, which will undoubtedly attract more world-class business events to be staged in Hong Kong and provide enriching experiences for tourists." Dr. Pang calls on Lions and companions from around the world to come to Hong Kong to participate in this conference, experience the joy of traveling in Hong Kong, and witness the warm hospitality of its citizens, taking the opportunity to showcase the charm of Hong Kong to the world. Mrs. Gianna Hsu, Chairman, Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong: "Learning that Hong Kong has successfully secured the hosting rights for the 108th Lions International Convention, as a Lion and a member of the tourism industry, I am 200% excited. It is truly inspiring and something to look forward to! I believe that the five-day convention in 2026 will showcase Hong Kong's unique advantages and charm to participants from around the world. It will effectively boost the development of industries such as hotels, tourism, exhibitions, dining, and retail, creating economic benefits. It is understood that the convention held in 2005 generated over 100 million HKD in consumer spending. Travel agencies play a significant role in the industry's development, especially in actively exploring local rich tourism resources and developing diverse tourism products post-pandemic, continually enhancing service quality. This ensures that every visitor to Hong Kong experiences the spirit of "Hong Kong, a place where everywhere is for travel, and everyone is hospitable, as mentioned by the Chief Executive, turning popularity into prosperity." Mr. Caspar Tsui, Executive Director, The Federation of Hong Kong Hotel Owners At today's briefing, seeing the entire tourism industry personally attending to show their support indicates that the industry greatly values the Lions Club's successful bid to host the 2026 International Convention. This is an absolutely significant event for Hong Kong. The biggest challenge is to invite friends from around the world to come to Hong Kong in person to experience and share the wonderful stories of Hong Kong. Many friends who have recently visited Hong Kong have mentioned that it is currently very enjoyable and safe, with many new attractions and exhibitions. Through the participation of travelers in exhibitions and events, the focus lies on showcasing the authentic experiences of Hong Kong. It is hoped that the organizers, the Tourism Board, the government, and the industry can work together to prepare and promote this event, showcasing the beautiful side of Hong Kong to friends from all around the world. Mr. Freddy Yip MH, Chairman, Hong Kong Travel Agent Owners Association: The Hong Kong Government, together with the industry, is working hard to attract global airlines to resume flights to Hong Kong after the pandemic. The Hong Kong Tourism Board is stepping up its efforts to promote Hong Kong, and the government is organizing many events to attract tourists, hoping to revitalize the economy. This time, we have successfully secured the hosting of the Lions Clubs International Convention in Hong Kong in July 2026, attracting tens of thousands of Lions Club members from around the world to attend the event. We in the industry are very much looking forward to participating in this large-scale event and convention hosted by the Lions Clubs. Angela Sau-Ling, Yuen, Convener of the briefing session and Second Vice District Governor Lions International District 303 Hong Kong Macao, China: The five-day conference will require a significant number of hotel accommodations and dining facilities. We hope that various industries provide the necessary support. The preparations for the "Lions Clubs International Convention 2026" are in full swing, as announced by Angela Sau-Ling Yuen, Second Vice District Governor. "The five-day conference is tentatively set to take place at the AsiaWorld-Expo. Based on past statistics, approximately 60% of participant come from Europe, America, Australia, and other regions, while 40% come from Asian countries. The days before and after the conference will likely see a peak in travel to nearby cities. During the conference, we will need to reserve a minimum of 6,000 to 8,000 rooms per night, spread across over 30 hotels. There will be a large-scale parade with around 20,000 Lions members participating. Approval from the police department will be required for the parade route, which we hope will take place in Tsim Sha Tsui or Wan Chai. We are currently discussing the parade route with consulting companies, and substantial railway and road transportation support will be needed on the day of the parade. Discussions with the MTR and bus companies for further arrangements will also follow." She urges collaboration with various sectors including tourism, retail, and food and beverage industries to make appropriate arrangements during the conference. Regarding the need for a large number of volunteers at the time, she continued, "We have reached agreements with several higher education institutions with tourism-related departments, including Thei and Chu Hai College. Students will be involved in the work, and we are in discussions with other educational institutions for volunteer arrangements. We hope to promote prosperity for Hong Kong, as well as bring more care and love to the community!" Ms. Enid Low, Chief Strategy Officer: AsiaWorld-Expo: AsiaWorld-Expo has always been a preferred venue for numerous international large-scale events. We are committed to providing top-notch venue facilities and excellent services. The venue has undergone extensive facility upgrades in recent years, covering exhibition halls, meeting rooms, and public spaces. The majority of the construction projects have been completed this year, and we hope to bring everyone a refreshing and state-of-the-art intelligent experience. Hong Kong is a hub for the international exhibition industry, possessing a unique blend of Eastern and Western city charm, with unquestionable tourism reception capabilities. AsiaWorld-Expo is close to the airport, reaching half of the global population within a five-hour radius. Adjacent to the venue is the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, and it houses an Airport Express station, allowing easy travel between the Greater Bay Area and the city center of Hong Kong. We believe this will provide Lions Club members with the most comfortable and convenient journey. AsiaWorld-Expo eagerly looks forward to offering a fantastic and extraordinary exhibition experience for Lions Club members worldwide. Hashtag: #LionsClubsThe issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.About Lions Clubs International District 303 Hong Kong and Macao, ChinaLions Clubs International was established in Chicago, USA in 1917 and is spread across over 208 countries and regions. The first Lions Club in Hong Kong was founded in 1955, with several clubs subsequently established. In 1960, Lions Clubs International approved the establishment of the "Lions Clubs International District 303 Hong Kong and Macao, China." There are a total of 123 clubs in Hong Kong and Macao, providing social and charitable services in various regions and areas. Currently, District 303 has over 3,500 members. The Lions Clubs is also recognized by the Chinese government as one of the international charitable service organizations. The services provided by District 303 are diverse. In the field of education, they have established the "Lions Club Chiang Tsui King Secondary School," "Lions Club Ho Tak Sum Primary School," "Lions Club Sister School Program," "Community Youth Club," "Lions Club Music Fund," and "Lions Club Anti-Drug Fund." In terms of environmental protection, we established "Lions Club Nature Education Center." In youth services, some examples are "Hong Kong Macao Youth Lions Fund," "Lions Club Hong Kong Macao Leo Fund," "Lions Club International Youth Camp and Exchange" "Tseung Kwan O Lions Club Youth Camp," "Lions Club Lam Tsuen Youth Recreation Center," and "International Peace Poster Design Competition." In the field of medical service, we work in "Lions Club Kidney Disease Education Center and Research Fund," "Hong Kong Lions Club Eye Bank," "Deaf Center," "Challenging Diabetes and AIDS Awareness Campaign," "Lions Club and Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Charity Fund," "Lions International Osteoporosis Education and Research Fund," "Lions Club Community Service Fund," and "Lions Club Youth Innovation Fund." We continue to effectively support various service developments in Hong Kong, expand multi-district Lions Club activity centers, and serve both Hong Kong and Macao.

文章來源 : Media OutReach Limited 發表時間 : 瀏覽次數 : 966 加入收藏 :
Xinhua Silk Road: Italy-based Salov, subsidiary of China's Bright Food Group, promotes olive oil culture through talent dev't programs

BEIJING, Aug. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Salov SpA (Salov), an Italy-based edible oil producer that owns the globally recognized olive oil brands Filippo Berio and Sagra and was acquired by China's Bright Food Group in 2015, has been advancing olive oil culture through talent development programs. Photo shows the olive oil products of Salov. (Provided by Salov SpA) The company recently took part in the first "Made in Italy Day", inviting students from the Nicolaio Brancoli Busdelarghi Agricultural and Technical College to explore olive oil culture at its Filippo Berio olive estate in Vecchiano, Pisa. The students witnessed the olive oil production process, participated in a professional tasting, and visited the field laboratory. All these interactive experiences deepened their appreciation for the excellence of made-in-Italy. It was not the first time for Salov to combine the tradition of olive oil with talent development. For example, the company joined hands with the University of Pisa on a Master's program in Food Quality Management and Communication in last May and provided scholarships for top three students enrolled in the master program in July of 2023. The collaboration between Salov and the University of Pisa extended beyond scholarships. Their cooperation in the "Long Life Oil" applied research program and the Innovative Oils program has yielded significant results and new technical insights, providing sectors like catering, agri-food, and environmental sustainability with skilled and innovative industry leaders. Committed to shaping the olive oil industry's future, Salov will continue to promote olive oil culture, support top research institutions and foster young talent growth. The company, founded in 1919 and based in Massarosa, Lucca of Italy, achieved revenues of around 500 million euros in 2023, with sales exceeding 100 million liters. See the original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/341573.html

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AI + medical care|Neusoft Education launches the Healthcare Training Lab to support practical teaching for software-related majors in universities

HONG KONG, Aug. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With the trend of population aging in China, the government and all sectors of society are taking active measures to address the challenges of the digital age. Following the rise of the "silver economy", the smart elderly care industry will be promising, and software will be playing a crucial role in the smart elderly care industry, which can effectively improve the efficiency and quality of elderly care services through intelligent management, optimizing resource allocation, providing personalized services, monitoring the health status of seniors in real time, and assisting in decision-making support. In the coming years, the demand for software-related jobs within the smart elderly care industry is expected to grow, creating abundant employment opportunities and development prospects for skilled professionals. As a leading IT solutions and services provider in China, Neusoft, with its profound accumulation in the field of medical informationization, actively promotes the digital transformation of the healthcare industry, makes continuous efforts to make healthcare services more intelligent through the research and development of intelligent healthcare systems and services, and sets the benchmark for the industry through technological innovation and model innovation. Neusoft Education Technology Group, in building the integrated strategic development of education and medical care, relies on the advantageous resources of its industry and the accumulation of its characteristic TOPCARES education methodology, and strengthens the development of resources in the education services business segment. The Group develops the Healthcare Training Lab, covering scenarios such as professional teaching, comprehensive practice, and competition training, provides courses and industrial projects covering the latest technologies for software-related majors in universities and colleges, and provides one-stop assistance to colleges and universities so as to improve their professional teaching and educating capabilities. This smart practical training laboratory focuses on the deep integration of intelligent healthcare business scenarios into software development teaching and training. By leveraging Neuedu's strong industrial advantages in healthcare, it integrates intelligent healthcare business scenarios throughout the teaching and skill training in software development. This includes four subsystems: the health and wellness platform portal, the health and wellness app, the health and wellness data monitoring dashboard, and the health and wellness platform management system, assisting students in comprehensively experiencing industry-level practical scenarios and typical applications. The courses and projects in this smart practical training laboratory incorporate AI technology and embody the "Five New" concepts (new theory, new technology, new application, new tools, and new products), with distinct practical features. By applying Vue as the front-end framework, SpringBoot as the back-end framework and Mybatis as the persistence layer framework, the courses use Android technology in mobile application development; AIGC technology is introduced in 6 courses and 14 projects to assist learners to break through difficulties, enhance their sense of achievement, and help teachers reduce their teaching burden and improve teaching efficiency. The design features an advanced project system that progresses from knowledge point (group)-level to unit-level, course-level, and comprehensive-level, moving from basic to complex, to help students gradually and systematically improve their practical skills. Rich supporting resources are available to comprehensively train core skills for software development positions. The training projects offer various resources depending on the technical direction of the training, such as product requirement specifications, experimental data, interface prototypes, project source code, database SQL scripts, API interface documents, background deployment files, project practical manuals, project implementation guides, and project guidance videos to supporting training in UI design, front-end development, back-end development, and mobile application development skills. CONTACT: Lin Wei, weilin@neuedu.com

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PolyU strengthens global partnerships with landmark MoUs in Southeast Asia

HONG KONG, Aug. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) embarked on a trip to Indonesia to connect with its global partners and sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on behalf of the University with three educational institutions in Indonesia: Canisius College, SMA Santa Ursula and Jubilee School, as part of its ongoing efforts to forge robust partnerships. This milestone trip underscores PolyU's steadfast commitment to strengthening deeper connections in Southeast Asia and to empowering young talents on the global stage. During the trip, Prof. Young led academics from the Faculty of Business, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science, as well as an Indonesian PolyU student ambassador, in promoting the University to school principals, counsellors and students from diverse backgrounds. They met with local high schools, presented updates about PolyU, introduced dual-degree and new undergraduate programmes, and shared various support services and opportunities available to students, while the student ambassador shared her inspirational learning experiences at PolyU. Prof. Young said, "PolyU is committed to building an international learning environment, attracting students from all around the world to study and work in Hong Kong, thereby contributing to the City's development as an international hub for post-secondary education. We are glad to announce the expansion of our strong networks in Southeast Asia and look forward to further engagement with a broader spectrum of institutions." Recently, Prof. Young signed an MoU on behalf of PolyU with an educational institution in Laos, marking the first educational collaboration between Hong Kong and Laos. In addition, he exchanged MoUs on behalf of PolyU with an educational institution in Vietnam and Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City. Both these events were witnessed by Mr John LEE Ka-chiu, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. PolyU's recent engagement in Southeast Asia marks a significant step forward for all involved in promoting institutional collaboration and in enhancing university education worldwide. PolyU embarked on a trip to Indonesia to connect with its global partners and sign Memorandums of Understanding on behalf of the University with three educational institutions in Indonesia.   Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) of PolyU and other PolyU representatives presented PolyU updates.   Please download photos from <link>.

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CKGSB and University of Sydney Partner to Foster Unicorns in New Energy and Industrial Disruption

BEIJING, Aug. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (CKGSB) and the University of Sydney announced a strategic partnership on 13 August 2024 in Sydney to jointly foster next-generation unicorns with a focus on new energy, digitalization and disruption to traditional industries in Australia and the Asia Pacific nations that are part of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Bing Xiang, Founding Dean and Dean's Distinguished Chair Professor of China Business and Globalization at CKGSB, and Leisa Sargent, Dean of the University of Sydney Business School, signed the agreement on behalf of both schools. "Unicorn companies play a key role in generating economic disruption, which is central to economic development and social advancement for both developed nations like Australia and developing economies," said Dean Xiang. "This is particularly important in promoting upward social mobility, especially among young people." Dean Xiang went on to explain that, precisely for this reason, CKGSB is the first business school, since 2015, to offer programs specifically designed for unicorn and soon-to-be-unicorn founders. "CKGSB has spent years working with leading schools and institutions to build a global ecosystem for the next generation of unicorn and soon-to-be-unicorn companies, with a renewed and enhanced emphasis on global responsibility, social purpose and long-term perspective," emphasized Dean Xiang. "We are delighted and honored to partner with the University of Sydney to offer a program that can help future unicorn leaders to sustainably grow in Australia and the broader RCEP region." Professor Sargent noted, "This collaboration represents a significant step towards integrating cutting-edge digital and ESG strategies in traditional sectors, further enriching our commitment to shaping industry-ready leaders who can navigate and innovate in complex, global markets. The partnership leverages CKGSB's attested strengths in educating established and future unicorn leaders and the University of Sydney Business School's research and history in supporting the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems throughout Australia and Asia. The program is now open for application and will take place on 11-14 February 2025 in Sydney. For more information about the program, please visit: New Energy and the Disruption of Traditional Industries - CKGSB.

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Global Times: US scholars push for energizing China research amid challenging atmosphere

BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As two of the world's largest economies, the US and China hold a unique position on the global stage. At the recent US Sinologists Conference in China, scholars gathered to discuss the evolving field of sinology. This article explores the current state and future directions of sinology in the US, examining how the field contributes to fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Through the experiences and perspectives of contemporary US sinologists, we delve into how US-China relations impact academic research and, conversely, how sinological studies can promote greater understanding and dialogue between the two nations. Despite challenges, these scholars are committed to advancing academic and cultural exchanges, which remain vital for bridging divides and enhancing cooperation. At a latest US Sinologists Conference held in Qingdao, East China's Shandong Province, more than 100 experts from China and the US gathered to discuss the current situation of sinology and Chinese studies. After reflecting on the unprecedented challenges and opportunities facing sinology, they recognized that the field now stands at a critical juncture. "The US and China are two of the most important nations in the world, each of them with glorious cultural traditions," Bryan Van Norden, James Monroe Taylor chair in philosophy at Vassar College, told the Global Times during the conference held at the World Sinology Center in Qingdao. "The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates said the only real cause of evil is ignorance. That's perhaps a little too idealistic, but it's certainly true that much conflict and much hatred in the world stems simply from ignorance and failure to understand others," Norden said, lamenting on the declining opportunities in the US for China studies. Keith Knapp, professor of History at the Military College of South Carolina, concurred with Norden's perspective, noting, "The US and China are the two largest economies and the two most powerful countries in the world. Many global issues require the cooperation of these two countries. " A challenging path Operating in more than 160 countries worldwide, the US Department of State's Fulbright Program provides US students and scholars the opportunity to study, teach, or conduct research abroad, as well as brings international students and scholars to the US. However, the US government suspended the Fulbright China Program in 2020. According to the US Department of State-funded "2023 Open Doors Report," only 211 US students studied in China during the 2021-22 academic year. Several experts at the conference stressed the importance of allowing young scholars to visit China and see the country with their own eyes. Speaking from his personal experience, Tristan Brown, a historian of early modern China and self-identified foodie, recalled that it was only after visiting China for the first time that he realized, as a child in the US, he had only been exposed to US-style Chinese food, which isn't authentic Chinese cuisine. "But after coming to China, I discovered that true Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with various regional styles or the Eight Great Culinary Traditions." John Osburg, associate professor of Anthropology at the University of Rochester, whose research focuses on contemporary Chinese society, found studying contemporary China particularly challenging. "By the time you publish your research findings, they are often already outdated, reflecting a China from five or 10 years ago," said Osburg, explaining why keeping research aligned with the current state of Chinese society without actually visiting China is quite difficult. Osburg also emphasized the significance of having a platform for exchanging ideas with Chinese scholars for US sinologists. However, for him at the University of Rochester, which has only a few professors specializing in China, this opportunity is limited. The shortage of Chinese scholars at the University of Rochester is not an isolated issue. Terry Kleeman, professor emeritus at the University of Colorado Boulder, pointed out that there has been less support for sinology programs at universities. At the same time, the number of students wanting to study in the field has also decreased. In contrast, the number of students studying Japanese or Korean studies has increased significantly. "The situation of sinology in the US is perhaps not the most optimistic," he said. After spending "17 unforgettable years" at the Brookings Institution's John L. Thornton China Center and one to two years of consideration, Li Cheng, the former director of the center, finally decided to accept a teaching position at the University of Hong Kong in 2023. Li said Washington had become increasingly unfamiliar to him.  Brown suggested that the declining interest in humanities among US students also poses a challenge to sinology's prospects. "Compared to 20 years ago, when pursuing a major in history at a top university like Harvard was more accepted and graduates could still find jobs, today's students are more practical and concerned about job prospects post-graduation." "Becoming a sinologist is a challenging path. It requires many years of studying the Chinese language and Chinese history, which are complex and not easy to master," he added. In addition to the lack of available teaching positions and opportunities related to sinology in the US, universities tend to favor candidates who specialize in modern Chinese studies when hiring for Chinese studies jobs. There are even more limited opportunities for scholars specializing in ancient periods like the Tang (618-907) or Song (960-1279) dynasties. China fulfilling its part Kleeman, who specializes in Chinese religion, particularly Taoism, pointed out that there are very few English translations of books on Taoism. "We need to do more translations. However, it's not just about understanding the Chinese language; you also need to understand Taoist culture, which requires guidance from a teacher. Unfortunately, in major universities in the US, there are few people continuing to do this." To Kleeman, the future of Taoist studies in the US looks bleak. "I have already retired, Steven Bokenkamp is about to retire, and Kenneth Dean is in Singapore," he said. He expressed concern that this will affect the cultivation of the next generation of sinologists specializing in Taoism. Despite these challenges, the field of sinology is not without innovation and opportunities. The World Sinology Center is working on digitizing the books in its library to share these resources with sinologists around the world, including in the US, which will surely benefit sinologists' research.  Following the conference, some Chinese scholars and US sinologists attended a symposium at the center and engaged in an in-depth discussion on addressing the severe challenge of the declining number of sinology researchers in the US. They proposed various cooperative mechanisms, including establishing sinology centers in the US and promoting Chinese language and culture education from the basic education level. Additionally, they suggested implementing short-term study programs and credit recognition mechanisms to encourage more US students to conduct research in China, enhancing their language skills and cultural literacy. There was also a call for the introduction of more cross-cultural teaching models in higher education, such as co-teaching by Chinese and US teachers. Some sinologists have observed the growing need for an emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. Grant Rhode, a senior lecturer at the Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University, told the Global Times that one cannot gain a more nuanced understanding of China and China's role in the world "without looking in-depth at so many different disciplines, whether it be economics and politics, the history of diplomacy, even psychology and anthropology. The cultural aspects are very important as well as the economic and political aspects." He said this holistic approach is more crucial than ever. The future of past allies "The exchange program in China in 2007 really changed my life, leading me to study the Chinese language and then Chinese history," Brown said, reflecting on where it all started for him becoming a sinologist when he got an opportunity to take part in an exchange program in a high school in East China's Zhejiang Province. He felt it was a shame that there seem to be fewer such exchange programs between China and the US in recent years. Luckily, in November 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced in San Francisco that China was ready to invite 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs over the next five years. Some young US students have already begun visiting China under this initiative. "Not only did you invite us here, but you also found ways to bring more students and graduate students. I think China has done quite well in this regard. I hope the US can also similarly welcome Chinese students back and make it easier for them to return," said Judith Shapiro, director of the MA program in Natural Resources and Sustainable Development at American University. One of the first Americans to live in China following the normalization of China-US relations, Shapiro taught English at Hunan Teachers' College in Changsha, Central China's Hunan Province.  Brown said that learning Chinese language and culture is a lifelong process. He has always encouraged his students to see China with their own eyes by visiting it, noting that if they take more time to learn about China's history, their experience will be even more rewarding. "But I also tell them that they can never be fully prepared, because China's culture and history are so rich, and there's always something new going on here." "I cannot change the world, but I can make a small difference in my class. By helping students understand some aspects of China's history or culture, I find it to be very meaningful," said Brown. The emphasis on cultural exchange and mutual understanding has been echoed by many scholars. Norden said he was excited to meet many scholars interested in both China and how the West studies China. He added, "I've also been impressed with how many graduate students are here and are learning about both Western studies of China, but also trying to understand ways in which we try to promote more constructive dialogue." Norden hoped for an expansion in the field of sinology, but also for "real appreciation by people, both ordinary people and scholars in China and the US." "We all recall that the US and China were allies in World War II and can both take pride in defeating fascism around the world. I look forward to a future in which the United States and China are again allies. And I think part of what is necessary for that is a greater investment in understanding each other's culture. I look forward to a future in which there is greater understanding between the two cultures guided by scholarship and government support on both sides of the Pacific," he said.

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