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Prof. Dai Minhan Donates RMB 200,000 to China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences

In a remarkable gesture of support for ocean science research and education, Prof. Dai Minhan, an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chair Professor at Xiamen University (XMU), and Chairman of the International Planning Advisory Committee of the China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences (CAMS) at Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM), has donated RMB 200,000 (approximately USD 28,380) to CAMS. 

This donation, derived from his prize for the 2023 Nanqiang Outstanding Contribution Award - Xiamen University's highest honor - has been used to establish the China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences Education and Development Fund under the Xiamen University Education Development Foundation. The fund is dedicated to advancing ocean science research, attracting exceptional talent, rewarding distinguished students, and promoting technological innovation at both CAMS and XMUM.

An esteemed XMU alumnus, Prof. Dai Minhan serves as Deputy Director of the XMU Council, Dean of the Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology, and Honorary Director of the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science. For over two decades, he has made major contributions to ocean science research and education. Prof. Dai is widely recognized for his pioneering work on ocean carbon and nutrient biogeochemistry, especially in relation to climate change. His accolades include the 2022 Axford Medal from AOGS, the AGU Fellowship, and the 2024 AGU Ambassador Award. He also advises the High-level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy.

Prof. Luo Yawei, Deputy Dean of CAMS and the College of Ocean and Earth Science at XMU, expressed profound gratitude for Prof. Dai's generosity, viewing it as a reflection of the Tan Kah Kee spirit and a strengthening force in the university-alumnus bond. "This donation propels our college toward a brighter future," Prof. Luo stated, expressing hope that it will inspire more students to delve into ocean sciences. He also encouraged other philanthropists and alumni to contribute to the fund to foster sustainable development in ocean science and technology across China, Malaysia, and other ASEAN countries.

Xiamen University, often referred to as the Blue Cradle of China's ocean science education and research, boasts a rich legacy in ocean science studies. Building on this foundation, CAMS, established in 2016, offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs in marine biotechnology and marine environmental chemistry, cultivating a new generation of ocean science talent from the ASEAN region.

Leveraging XMU's prestigious research platforms, distinguished faculty, and innovative initiatives such as the Xiamen University at Sea program, CAMS provides students with unmatched opportunities for global collaboration and hands-on training. CAMS graduates are highly regarded for their robust academic backgrounds and international exposure; over half of them pursue advanced degrees at leading global universities, while others secure roles in premier enterprises and research institutions in Malaysia and China, illustrating their competitiveness in the ocean science and technology fields.