York University signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s Beihang University on Friday. The agreement allows for the exchange of students and faculty across disciplines and offers collaborative opportunities for better research, teaching and faculty development.

Above: Standing, from left, Professor Tang Wenzhong, director, Institute for Science & Technology, Beihang University; Professor Wang Huiwen, dean, School of Economics & Management, Beihang University; Dr. Ma Jinxi, director international division, Beihang University; Professor Huai Jinpeng, president, Beihang University; MPP Michael Chan, Ontario minister of tourism & culture; Professor Bernie Frolic, director, Asian Business Management Program, York University; Ivy Lerner-Frank, trade commissioner & manager InfoCentre China, Canadian Embassy. Sitting, from left, Professor Lorna Wright, associate vice-president international, York University, and Professor Tang Xiaoqing, vice-president, international relations, Beihang University.

“York University recognizes that we now live in a global village and to remain on the forefront of knowledge we – and our students – must be global in our scope. Such exchange agreements are key to providing our students with opportunities to add an international component to their academic program,” said Lorna Wright, York’s associate vice-president international.

In particular, York aims to expand its expertise in the areas of life science, space science, and engineering, said Janusz Kozinski, dean of York’s Faculty of Science & Engineering.

“York University, and in particular the Faculty of Science & Engineering, is delighted to initiate this partnership with Beihang University, which is one of the most prestigious universities in China,” Kozinski said. “We will collaborate on specific research projects, aligned with mutual strategic research priorities. We will also exchange students and researchers across disciplines. These activities will strengthen York’s character as one of the most interdisciplinary and international universities in Canada.”

Kozinski noted that in the next decade, there will be a significant increase in opportunities for York University students to participate in experiential education activity, both domestically and internationally, as a component of their degree program.

The signing took place in the run-up to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty’s third mission to China. His team will meet with Chinese officials and business leaders to highlight Ontario’s expertise in clean water technology, financial services, international education and other areas, part of the Open Ontario Plan.

York’s relationship with China and Chinese universities has a long history, dating from the University’s beginnings.

For more information, see the China and York University fact sheet.

Republished courtesy of YFile– York University’s daily e-bulletin