Tsinghua and Finnish universities establish new education pact

On the morning of October 29, President Cai-Göran Alexander Stubb of the Republic of Finland visited Tsinghua University and participated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the university and the China-Network of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS). This agreement marks a step forward in Sino-Finnish academic collaboration. President Stubb spoke at the China-Finland Applied Sciences and Engineering Education Seminar following the signing. During his visit, extensive discussions with Tsinghua's President Li Luming focused on the crucial role of international exchanges, with both leaders advocating for increased student and faculty exchanges between the two countries.

Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony

The signing of MOU by President Li Luming of Tsinghua and Jaakko Hallila, President of Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences and Chair of the China-Network of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences, underscores a continuing tradition of academic cooperation between China and Finland. This agreement, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and exchanging knowledge, promises enriching experiences for students from both countries.

Tsinghua University President Li Luming delivers remarks at the China-Finland Applied Sciences and Engineering Education Seminar

President Li Luming warmly welcomed the Finnish delegation and underscored Tsinghua's ongoing initiative to forge global partnerships and enrich educational exchanges. "At Tsinghua, we actively work to expand our collaborative endeavors with Finnish institutions, jointly cultivating talents and addressing significant challenges across regions and the globe," Li stated. He also expressed optimism that, with President Stubb's encouragement, Tsinghua anticipates seeing an increase in student and faculty exchanges, jointly contributing to advancing global technological innovation and elevating the standards of higher education worldwide. 

Finnish President Cai-Göran Alexander Stubb delivers a speech at the China-Finland Applied Sciences and Engineering Education Seminar

In his speech, President Stubb highlighted the transformative role of education, a key pillar of Finland's societal development. He stressed that Finland’s achievements are firmly rooted in a longstanding commitment to educational excellence and civilizations. Education, he noted, is essential in fostering an open and curious mindset, critical for personal success and national prosperity. Stubb also championed the benefits of lifelong learning, urging students to continuously expand their knowledge. He further emphasized the importance of international student exchanges, as that’s the only way to learn and understand a different culture. Stubb stated that the new MOU will significantly enhance academic mobility, creating extensive opportunities for Finnish students in China and increasing the number of Chinese students studying in Finland.

Lauri Tierala, Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of Finland, Jukka Salovaara, Permanent State Secretary of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, and Mikko Kinnunen, Ambassador of Finland to China, accompanied the visit. Wang Tongqing, Ambassador of China to Finland, also attended the proceedings, while Tsinghua Vice President Yang Bin chaired the event. The Finnish student representatives from Tsinghua University also participated in related activities.

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Writer: Ma Mingwei

Editors: Li Han, JP

Designer: Fang Si

Reviewers: Chen Ken, Lin Yuan