The Role of Foreign Universities in China

HONG KONG, May 23, 2007 - Confronting China's Challenges: the Role of Foreign Universities with Richard Levin at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center.

China faces some major hurdles as it continues with economic and social development. These include establishing the rule of law, encouraging creativity and innovation, and reducing the environmental impact of economic growth. In his address, Professor Levin explores the role of foreign universities in helping the nation overcome these hindrances to progress.

Richard Levin

Professor Levin assumed the Yale presidency in 1993. He is the longest serving Ivy League president and widely considered a leader of American higher education.

One of his priorities has been the internationalisation of the university with particular emphasis on China. Yale was chosen to sponsor two programs in China, one for presidents of China's leading universities, and another for senior Chinese government officials to study outside the country.

A distinguished economist, President Levin was previously Chair of Yale's Economics Department, and holds honorary degrees awarded by Peking, Harvard, Princeton and Oxford Universities as well as an honorary professorship from Fudan University. He has also served on Presidential Commissions reviewing the U.S. Postal Service and the effectiveness of U.S. intelligence operations.