Tsinghua ISSU E 43 December 2018

Home , Hong Kong Jockey Club, University of Chile

Tsinghua University Latin America Center inaugurated in Santiago, Chile

President Qiu Yong visits HKU and signs an LOI for HKU-Tsinghua Collaboration on Dual Bachelors Degree Programs

First graduation ceremony of GIX held in Seattle

1 DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER Tsinghua University Latin America Center Inaugurated President Qiu Yong said that openness and innovation are the two in Santiago, Chile greatest characteristics of the 21st century. Universities should keep pace with the trend of the times by continuing to be open and innovative, and shoulder the great responsibility of promoting social progress and the development of human civilization. In 2016, Tsinghua University formulated its first global strategy in the history of the university, and is speeding up the building of world-class universities and world-class disciplines. He emphasized that “first-class” should embody its leading role in science, technology, ideology and culture, its uniqueness in university management concepts and development, and its outstanding contribution to the country and the world. Tsing- hua University will strive to achieve the heights of a first-class university On the afternoon of December located in a modern building in the in the process of serving the country, 6th, the Tsinghua University Latin central business district of Santiago, and make greater contributions to America Center was inaugurated in Chile. the development of mankind, while Santiago, Chile. This is an import- The center will act as the contact striving to promote the worldwide ant measure undertaken by Tsinghua and exchange base of Tsinghua Uni- exchange in the humanities and tech- University to promote the imple- versity in Latin America to serve as nology. mentation of the global strategy and the central base for talent cultivation President Qiu stressed that the marks the temporary end of the over- by Tsinghua University, as well as the relationship between China and seas layout of the global strategy. development of academic research Latin America is at its best in histo- Former President of Chile Eduardo and exchanges in the humanities ry. The Tsinghua University Latin Frei, Chairman of the Luksic Group with Latin American countries. As America Center will surely play an Andrónico Luksic, President of the one of Tsinghua University’s over- important role in contributing to the APEC CEO Summit 2019 Jean-Paul seas locations, the Latin America promotion of exchanges and cooper- Luksic, representatives of the Luksic Center will contribute to the cultiva- ation between scholars, government family, the Chinese Ambassador to tion of global competence among the officials and entrepreneurs from Tsin- Chile Xu Bu and other guests attend- students of Tsinghua University, the ghua University and Latin American ed the ceremony held at the Chinese development of global research, and countries, the promotion of cultural Embassy in Chile.The Tsinghua Uni- the establishment of global coopera- exchanges between young students versity Latin America Center is tion and its world reputation. from China and Latin American

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2 countries, the strengthening of the establishment of the Latin Amer- Catholic University of Chile, the links between Tsinghua alumni in ica Center in Chile is a major event University of Chile, the Universidad Latin America and the continuous for cooperation between China and del Desarrollo and the Andrés Bello contribution of alumni to local eco- Chile. It will certainly promote National University to sign agree- nomic development. There is infinite exchanges and cooperation in sci- ments on cooperation and exchange. space for development in coopera- ence, technology and the humanities The China-Chile Forum: Chilean tion between China and Chile, and between the Chinese and Latin Amer- Innovation Strategy and Chinese between China and Latin America. ican peoples. He believed that under Experience in Digital Transformation, Tsinghua University will also take the joint leadership of the leaders of co-sponsored by Tsinghua University part in continuously making new con- the two countries, the comprehen- and País Digital Foundation, attract- tributions to the creation of a better sive partnership between China and ed the participation of representatives world, the ever-lasting friendship Chile would create a new situation from political, academic and business between China and Latin America, and achieve new development. circles of China and Chile. Tsing- the implementation of the Belt and hua University held dialogues and Road initiative, and the building of discussions with the United Nations a community of a shared future for Economic Commission for Latin mankind. America and the Caribbean on the experience, challenges and respons- es of digital transformation, and with the CORFO (Corporación de Fomento de la Producción) on the production mechanism of Chile and China. Since 2006, Tsinghua University At the ceremony, President Qiu has developed cooperation with Chile and Andrónico Luksic also signed a in many aspects. In addition to student cooperation agreement on behalf of exchange projects, it has established the two sides. According to the agree- the Center for Chinese-Latin Ameri- Andrónico Luksic thanked Tsin- ment, the Luksic Group will provide ca Management Studies to strengthen ghua University for its trust in the corresponding support to the Tsing- research and academic exchanges in Luksic family and Chile. The Luksic hua University Latin America Center. management, as well as related sci- family has a long history of con- With the establishment of the entific and technological cooperation tacts with China and has established Tsinghua University Latin America among teachers from China and from more than 10 years of cooperation Center, related activities have been Chile and Latin America. with Tsinghua University. He said launched one after another. From that Latin America needs to work December 5th to 6th, President Qiu with world-class universities to meet led a delegation to visit the Pontifical the challenges it faces. The establishment of the Tsinghua University Latin America Center is an important step in facing these challenges. He believed that the center would become a new starting point for academic research, as well as establishing an academic bridge connecting China and Latin America, promoting the exchange of talents between China and Latin America, and promoting the establishment of a better and challenging world. Xu Bu said that Tsinghua Uni- versity is a well-known university in China and around the world. The

3 DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER Qiu Yong visits Chile to promote cooperation between China and Chile on Higher Education

From December 5th to Decem- ber 7th, Qiu Yong, President of Tsinghua University, led a delegation to visit Chile to promote educational cooperation and people-to-people exchange between Tsinghua Univer- sity and Chile. In the meantime, Qiu Yong visited the Chilean Presiden- tial Palace La Moneda and met with the Chief Advisor to the President of Chile Cristián Larroulet and Minister Secretary-General of the Presidency of Chile Gonzalo Blumel. President Qiu visited Universidad del Desarrol- lo, the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, the University of Chile, and Latin America Center is an import- as other countries in Latin America. Universidad Andrés Bello, where ant measure undertaken by Tsinghua Cristián Larroulet noted that he he exchanged views with universi- University to promote the implemen- and Gonzalo Blumel were authorized ty presidents to promote educational tation of its global strategy, and marks by President Sebastián Pi era to meet cooperation between Tsinghua Uni- the successful conclusion of the over- with President Qiu Yong, and extend- versity and Chilean universities. seas layout of the global strategy for ed the congratulations of the Chilean On December 7th, President this period. The establishment of the government to the establishment of Qiu Yong visited the Chilean Presi- Tsinghua University Latin Amer- the Tsinghua University Latin Ameri- dential Palace La Moneda and held ica Center in Chile indicates that can Center. He said that though China talks with the Chief Advisor to the Tsinghua University attaches great and Chile are separated by a vast President of Chile Cristián Larrou- importance to technological and peo- ocean, the friendly relations between let and Minister Secretary-General ple-to-people exchanges with Latin the two countries have withstood the of the Presidency of Chile Gonzalo American countries and strengthens historical test. Upon the invitation of Blumel. President Qiu introduced the cooperation with Chilean universi- Chinese President Xi Jinping, Presi- cooperation between Tsinghua Uni- ties and enterprises. The Tsinghua dent Sebastian Pinera is expected to versity and Chilean universities and University Latin America Center attend the Belt and Road Forum for enterprises, as well as the progress of will be dedicated to people-to-people International Cooperation in 2019, Tsinghua University’s global strategy. exchanges, technological innovation and he looks forward to the further President Qiu said that the estab- and educational cooperation between development of economic and trade lishment of the Tsinghua University Tsinghua University and Chile as well cooperation and people-to-people

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 4 exchanges between the two coun- and spoke highly of Tsinghua Univer- would lay a solid foundation for the tries. Gonzalo Blumel expressed his sity’s achievements in international two sides to upgrade their coopera- welcome and affirmation of Tsinghua cooperation and exchanges. Federi- tion. University’s efforts to strengthen peo- co Valdés introduced the history and ple-to-people exchanges with Chile challenges of university development, and expected that Tsinghua Univer- as well as the university’s leading sity would cooperate with Chile in subjects such as economics and psy- more fields. chology. He said that the Universidad Cristián Larroulet and Gonzalo del Desarrollo attached great impor- Blumel said that they would actively tance to the cooperation with China promote cooperation and exchang- and looked forward to discussing and es between Tsinghua University and cooperating with Tsinghua Universi- the Ministry of Education, and other ty in areas of mutual interest. relevant government agencies and On December 6th, President Qiu President Qiu and Ignacio universities in Chile, and actively visited the Pontifical Catholic Uni- Sánchez signed a cooperation agree- provide advice and support for the versity of Chile and held talks with ment between the two universities. development of the Tsinghua Univer- Ignacio Sánchez, President of the According to the agreement, the two sity Latin America Center. University, as well as its senior man- sides would conduct in-depth cooper- The two sides discussed the agement. President Qiu expressed his ation in research fields such as news, development of higher education and appreciation of the leading academic communication and new media. cultural exchanges between China reputation of Pontifical Catholic Uni- and Latin America. versity of Chile in Latin America. He pointed out that this university is the university with the longest cooperation, the widest cooperation scope and the highest level of cooperation with Tsinghua University among Latin American universities, and hoped to strengthen inter-university cooperation with Pontifical Catho- lic University of Chile. President Qiu said that openness and cooperation On the same day, President Qiu On December 5th, President Qiu are the mainstream of world universi- visited the University of Chile and visited the Universidad del Desarrol- ty development. The establishment of met with Ennio Vivaldi, President lo to meet with President Federico the Tsinghua University Latin Ameri- of the University. President Qiu said Valdés. President Qiu expressed his ca Center would promote cooperation that the University of Chile was the appreciation for the large number of between Tsinghua University and oldest public university in Chile and innovative talents in the econom- universities in Latin America. had made significant contributions to ic and humanities fields trained by Ignacio Sánchez gave a warm the social development of Chile. Tsin- the university and contributing to welcome to President Qiu and said ghua was in a key transitional period the economic development of Chile that the Pontifical Catholic Universi- from its first century to its second cen- since its establishment. President Qiu ty of Chile and Tsinghua University tury of development, moving towards introduced the globalization process have maintained good cooperative its development goal of being “more of Tsinghua University and the recent relations, and the academic coopera- innovative and more international, important development achieve- tion and people-to-people exchanges with more stress on humanities”. ments, especially in promoting between the two universities have Ennio Vivaldi extended his warm interdisciplinary research, innova- been gradually strengthened. Ignacio welcome on the occasion of President tion and entrepreneurship education. Sánchez praised Tsinghua Univer- Qiu’s visit. He pointed out that Chile President Federico Valdés con- sity’s global academic excellence, has a very friendly cooperative rela- gratulated Tsinghua University on the congratulated Tsinghua University on tionship with China. The University establishment of the Tsinghua Uni- its establishment of the Latin Ameri- of Chile pays close attention to the versity Latin America Center in Chile ca Center, and hoped that the center exchanges with Chinese universities

5 DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER and looks forward to establishing a comprehensive cooperative relationship with Tsinghua University. President Qiu and Ennio Vival- di further discussed the prospects of cooperation and exchanges between the two universities, and exchanged an inter-institutional cooperation agreement signed by the School of Journalism and Communication of Tsinghua University and the Insti- tute of Communications and Image of the University of Chile. The two sides would expand cooperation and exchanges in the fields of communication, image and cultural studies. On the same day, President Qiu visited Universidad Andrés important contributions to strength- and technological innovation. Andrés Bello, where he held talks with Jose ening the understanding of mutual Bello National University also Rodríguez, President of Universi- trust between the Chinese and Chil- attached great importance to scientif- dad Andres Bello, Fernando Reyes ean peoples, and hoped that that the ic and technological innovation and Matta, former Chilean Ambassador center would play a bridging role in international cooperation. It is hoped to China, and Director of Center for expanding the cooperation between that the two universities would China Studies of Universidad Andrés Tsinghua University and Andrés establish long-term cooperative rela- Bello National, as well as the univer- Bello National University. tions and strengthen cooperation and sity management. Jose Rodríguez detailed the exchanges in the field of scientific and President Qiu said that as a development of Andrés Bello Nation- technological innovation. The two prominent Chinese research think al University and its China Research sides also discussed the development tank in Latin America, the China Center. He said that Tsinghua Univer- of higher education and humanities Research Center of Andrés Bello sity played an important international research in Latin America. National University has made leading role in promoting scientific President Qiu Yong Receives Honorary Doctorate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong

On November 29th, at the 86th causa, to Tsinghua University Pres- Qiu in academia and to greater soci- Congregation for the Conferment of ident Qiu Yong. The conferment ety, including for the promotion of Degrees of the Chinese University of ceremony was presided over by the scientific research and develop- Hong Kong 2018, Carrie Lam Cheng Vice-Chancellor and President of the ment, cross-disciplinary research in Yuet-ngor, Chief Executive of the Chinese University of Hong Kong the field of organic optoelectronics, Hong Kong Special Administrative Prof. Rocky S. Tuan. as well as the important role he has Region and Chancellor of the Chinese The award is in recognition of played in university management, University of Hong Kong, presented a the outstanding achievements and talent cultivation, education and Degree of Doctor of Science, honoris contributions made by President teaching, and cooperation between

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 6 the two universities. More than 1500 participants were present at the conferment ceremony, including Council Chairman of the Chinese University of Hong Kong Dr. Leung Nai-pang, and from Tsinghua University - Former Presi- dent Gu Binglin, Vice President and Provost Yang Bin, Assistant President and Director of the Academic Affairs Office Peng Gang, and alumni representatives.

his career, Professor Qiu has taught of Doctor of Social Science, honoris by example and impressed many causa, of the Chinese University of young minds. He has persevered in Hong Kong. discovering new knowledge and scal- Subsequently, the ceremony also ing new heights. He has championed held a degree awarding session, where Sze-Wing Tang, Professor and cross-disciplinary research, promoted 451 graduating students enjoyed the Chairman of the Department of Chi- the integration of academic research momentous occasion. nese Language and Literature at the and industry applications, setting Tsinghua University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, new trends in the community with Chinese University of Hong Kong gave the conferment speech to Pres- his vision and vigor. Both as a schol- signed their first exchange agreement ident Qiu. He praised his journey ar and as an individual, he epitomizes back in 1985. In recent years, teach- and achievements, saying that once the true spirit of Tsinghua University er-student exchange and academic a young freshman pursuing a dream, encapsulated in its motto ‘Self-Dis- cooperation between the two uni- Professor Qiu is now the head of cipline and Social Commitment’. He versities have become increasingly a university driving the collective practices what he preaches and acts as frequent. On May 29th, 2017, Presi- pursuit of an exalted goal. In this a role model. dent Qiu was appointed as Honorary 35-year journey, Professor Qiu has On the day, three distinguished Professor of the Faculty of Science been studying and working in one individuals were awarded the Degree of the Chinese University of Hong place - his alma mater, embodying of Doctor, honoris causa, of the Chi- Kong and other renowned Tsing- the quintessential Tsinghuanese from nese University of Hong Kong, for hua professors, including Chen-Ning head to toe. Professor Qiu has dedi- their outstanding contributions to Yang, Honorary Director of Insti- cated himself to scientific research, culture, art, scientific research, edu- tute For Advanced Study of Tsinghua material development, and the trans- cation, and the promotion of people’s University; Andrew Chi-Chih Yao, lation of research findings. He is an well-being. In addition to President Dean of the Institute for Interdisci- advocate of novel cross-disciplinary Qiu, the Former Chairman of the plinary Information Sciences, and research, and much renowned for Hong Kong Jockey Club, Former Shing-Tung Yau, Director of Yau his belief and efforts in integrating Member of the Legislative Council Mathematical Sciences Center, are the laboratory with entrepreneur of Hong Kong, and recipient of the also distinguished professors-at-large research platforms paving the way for Gold Bauhinia Star of Hong Kong at the Chinese University of Hong product research commercialization. Simon Ip Sik-on; and Former Chief Kong. Professor Qiu’s dedication and passion Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary for nurturing young scholars is also Authority, recipient of the Golden inspiring. He has won countless acco- Bauhinia Star and the Grand Bauhin- lades for his scientific innovations ia Medal of Hong Kong, Joseph Yam and pedagogic passions. Throughout Chi-kwong were awarded Degree

7 DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER for joint development on the basis of President Qiu Yong equality and mutual benefit”, aiming to pool the advantageous disci- visits HKU and signs an plines and characteristic educational resources of Tsinghua University and the University of Hong Kong, pro- LOI for HKU-Tsinghua mote the diversification of talent training, upgrade the level of inter- Collaboration on Dual national education, and promote educational exchanges and coopera- Bachelor’s Degree tion between the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong. Programs President Qiu noted that Tsing- hua University and the University of Hong Kong, established in the same year, have a very close cooperative relationship. The University of Hong On November 30th, President will receive bachelor’s degree certifi- Kong actively promotes international Qiu Yong led a delegation to visit the cates from Tsinghua University and exchanges and cooperation, which is University of Hong Kong (HKU), and Hong Kong University respectively. highly consistent with Tsinghua Uni- with President and Vice-Chancel- It is reported that the program will versity’s global strategy. Qiu stressed lor Zhang Xiang of the University of recruit students worldwide, with the that openness and innovation are the Hong Kong, signed a letter of intent first batch of students expected to two key words of university devel- for cooperation, announcing that the start study in the academic year 2020 opment, and only in a more open two universities will jointly launch - 2021. environment can major innovation Four-year Dual Bachelor’s Degree On the basis of long-term friend- achievements be made. Tsinghua Programs. The first batch of the pro- ly cooperation between Tsinghua University developed its first global grams will cover two disciplines: University and the University of strategy in 2016 to promote exchang- economic management and comput- Hong Kong, this letter of intent was es and cooperation between Tsinghua er science and technology. Students signed in line with the principle of and universities around the world who have completed relevant courses “tapping complementary advantages and speed up the pace of students and

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 8 teachers going global. “I believe the joint launch of dual degree programs will further promote the development of the cooperative relationship between the two universities, and I hope we can fully leverage each other’s advantages, maintain the momentum and vitality of advance- ment, and train leaders with global vision to address the challenges of the future world.” President Zhang Xiang said: “To lead the University of Hong Kong to become a world class university, it is necessary to establish in-depth cooperation with the world’s top universities. I’m very pleased to be able to establish a partnership with Tsinghua agreement in 1993, which was each other’s campuses. On May 29th, University. The dual degree programs renewed in 2003, when an exchange 2017, the University of Hong Kong will enable students to experience agreement for undergraduates was formally joined the Innovation & different learning environments and also signed, providing that each Entrepreneurship Education Alliance cultures in the course of their aca- semester, the two universities can of China initiated by Tsinghua Uni- demic pursuit.” send less than 10 students to study at versity. In addition, the two sides also conducted in-depth discussions on broader future exchanges and cooperation between the two universities. President Qiu also took part in the first Hong Kong International Arti- First graduation ceremony of ficial Intelligence Summit jointly organized by Tsinghua University and GIX held in Seattle the University of Hong Kong, visited the campus and laboratories of the On December 9th, the first President Brad Smith of Microsoft, University of Hong Kong, and gained graduation ceremony of the Global attended the ceremony. in-depth understanding of campus Innovation eXchange (GIX) Institute construction, laboratory construction was held in Seattle’s GIX Building. and research concepts, among others. The first graduation cohort was made Yang Bin, Vice President and Provost up of 37 students from 11 countries of Tsinghua University, and Assis- and regions around the world. The tant President and Director of the degrees conferred at the ceremony Academic Affairs Office Peng Gang, were the 15-month Master of Science formed part of the visiting team. Ian in Technology Innovation (MSTI) Holliday, Vice President of the Uni- degree offered through the Universi- versity of Hong Kong, among others, ty of Washington, and the 27-month attended the signing ceremony of the Dual Degree, which integrates the President Qiu Yong, on behalf letter of intent. MSTI with the Master of Science in of Tsinghua University, extended his The teacher and student Engineering (Data Science and Infor- most sincere congratulations to all the exchanges between Tsinghua Uni- mation Technology) (MSE(DSIT)) graduates from the pioneering class of versity and the University of Hong through Tsinghua University. GIX and thanked all those who have Kong are becoming more and more President Qiu Yong of Tsinghua Uni- been a part of the journey, whose frequent. The two universities signed versity, President Ana Marie Cauce vision, commitment, and concerted an inter-university cooperation of the University of Washington and efforts have made it a possibility.

9 DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER President Qiu remarked that GIX they have achieved as pioneers. GIX University master’s degree of science is an educational endeavor co-founded adopts a new collaborative teaching in engineering thesis defense just the by Tsinghua University, the Universi- method, which emphasizes working day before their graduation ceremo- ty of Washington and Microsoft, with with enterprises and other innovative ny. In particular, she outlined the a shared vision and commitment in institutions across the world to pro- many benefits of applying the TED promoting innovation and cultivat- mote cooperation between different (IT Technology, Entrepreneurship, ing innovative talents. President Qiu higher education institutions across and Design Thinking) interdisciplin- further noted that Seattle is a city different countries. This is “a pio- ary training model for skills training of innovation, a city that witnessed neering step for the world of higher and technological innovation, and and contributed to the friendship education”. President Smith hoped encouraged students to further pro- between China and the United States. the graduates would carry forward mote GIX’s innovative spirit in their GIX is a solid new step that demon- the spirit of GIX in order to inspire future work endeavors. strates a brand new vision, and the other students to make even greater Jointly founded by Tsinghua Uni- successful practice of GIX shows that contributions in the future. versity, the University of Washington innovation requires cooperation, and and Microsoft Corporation, GIX was cooperation is the foundation of inno- officially launched in Seattle on June vation. “The space for innovation is as 18th, 2015. On September 23rd of the vast as the Pacific Ocean”, President same year, Chinese President Xi Jin- Qiu said, “And in the ocean of inno- ping made a special trip to Seattle to vation, we must join hands and move visit the staff of the institute during forward side by side.” a visit to the United States and presented a dawn redwood tree as a gift, wishing the success of GIX. On Sep- tember 23rd, 2016, the cornerstone At the graduation ceremony, on of GIX’s first teaching and research behalf of the faculty of the two uni- building was officially laid in Seattle. versities, Shi Yuanchun, Dean of The building was completed and put GIX at Tsinghua University, praised the students for their dedication to explore and innovate. In just over two years of study, the students have President Cauce congratulat- assiduously completed the academic ed the graduating students on behalf requirements of the two degree pro- of the University of Washington and grams in a manner that she described praised their achievements. “Now, as “sleepless in Seattle” after they you stand poised to change the world, successfully passed their Tsinghua and we are deeply proud to be the launch pad for the impact you will make”. President Cauce remarked. She commended the GIX student cohort for their outstanding work, cour- age in facing challenges, creativity in addressing issues and strong collaborative spirit. She further remarked that as the first graduate cohort, they have set the bar for the cohorts who will follow in their footsteps. “We could not have asked for better stan- dard-bearers”. Brad Smith, President of Micro- soft, applauded GIX’s first group of graduates for the milestone moments

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER10 into use on September 14th, 2017. GIX is Tsinghua University’s first phys- ical presence overseas and also the first of its kind established by Chi- nese universities in the United States, marking a major breakthrough in Tsinghua University’s international cooperation. The GIX education model brings together outstanding students from all over the world with diverse back- grounds to create an interdisciplinary group, and uses emerging technol- ogies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, AR/VR (augment- ed reality / virtual reality), robotics, and blockchain technology to solve regional and global challenges. GIX GIX has served as a bridge 15 commercial institutions, from students display creative thinking between China and the United States both China and the United States. and a hardworking spirit toward their and between the East and the West. It With the great wealth of support, studies. They have achieved excep- not only promotes educational inno- along with the guidance and strength tional results in various competitions vation in the field of technological of the three founding members of and also published various academ- innovation, but also acts as an incu- GIX: Tsinghua University, the Uni- ic papers and obtained more than 10 bator of talent for the development of versity of Washington and Microsoft, international and Chinese patents for science and technology. The program the institute looks to have a bright technological inventions. has also received strong support from future ahead.

Tsinghua University-University of Chicago Joint Research Center for Economics and Finance Jointly Established by Tsinghua University and University of Chicago

On November 29th, the sign- Daniel Diermeier, Vice President for ing ceremony of the Tsinghua Strategy and Innovation, Deputy Pro- University-University of Chicago vost and Chief International Officer Joint Research Center for Economics Balaji Srinivasan, Vice President for and Finance was held at the campus National Laboratories Juan de Pablo, of the University of Chicago in Vice President for Communications Hong Kong. President Qiu Yong of Paul Rand, and Vice President for Tsinghua University and President Alumni Relations and Development Robert J. Zimmer of the University Sharon Marine of the University of of Chicago signed a memorandum of Chicago, former President Gu Binglin signing ceremony was a brand new understanding on cooperation. The and Vice President and Provost Yang step in the cooperation based on the two universities will jointly establish Bin of Tsinghua University and other longstanding partnership between the Tsinghua University-Universi- guests had a meeting and attended the two universities. Tsinghua SEM ty of Chicago Joint Research Center the signing ceremony together. had grown up with the reform, open- for Economics and Finance. Provost President Qiu stated that the ing up and development of China’s

11DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER economy. It integrated the disci- President Robert J. Zimmer economic research, with China’s econ- plines of economics and management, stated that he was delighted to wit- omy as its research object, and will pursued excellence in research and ness the deepening of the relationship jointly carry out scientific research, teaching, and devoted itself to creat- between Tsinghua University and personnel training and discipline ing new academic knowledge. On the University of Chicago. The research construction in this field, with the other hand, the Economics Depart- results of this collaboration would aim of making a leading contribution ment of the University of Chicago be shared not only with researchers to the promotion of China’s econom- had been in a leading world position around the world to inspire contin- ic and financial research nationwide through the ages. It had produced uous analysis and inquiry, but more and even globally. The Tsinghua Uni- more than 35% Nobel Prize-winning importantly it would be shared with versity-University of Chicago Joint economists and created an excel- Chinese policy makers and policy Research Center for Economics and lent environment for the growth of makers from around the world as they Finance will be established on the the “Chicago School of Economics”. created economic policies for the ben- campus of Tsinghua University, while Moreover, the University of Chi- efit of their citizens and society. The the space for scientific research and cago’s Becker Friedman Institute joint research center would create offices would be provided by Tsing- for Economics (BFI) had particular opportunities for economics schol- hua SEM. advantages in economic research in ars from both institutions to conduct Before the ceremony began, the fields of experience, talent net- vigorous, state-improving research President Qiuhad held a meeting work and research resources. and analysis on economic issues that with President Robert J. Zimmer and President Qiu added that Tsin- were related to the extraordinary the two parties carried out in-depth ghua SEM, together with the evolution of China over the past few discussion on promoting teacher-stu- University of Chicago’s Becker Fried- decades. It was envisioned that the dent exchanges and cooperation in man Institute for Economics (BFI), shared strength of the two universi- scientific research between the two would form an innovative syner- ties would come together to unlock universities. gy, jointly tackle key problems in insights into economics that would be important fields, and play a more of great benefit in development con- important role in the promotion of necting all cities and understanding economic theory and policy research. across the globe. The two parties would coordinate The Tsinghua University-Uni- and complement research resources, versity of Chicago Joint Research build a broad international platform Center for Economics and Finance for the training of young research- will rely on Tsinghua SEM, and the ers, and make a greater contribution University of Chicago’s Becker Fried- to the development of China and the man Institute for Economics (BFI) world economy. He hoped the two will focus on the advantages of eco- sides would maintain momentum and nomic research in promoting frontier work closely, for the development of the center, for the progress of the discipline of economics, and for the common well-being of human civilization.

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER12 China-UK Humanities Annual Forum 2018 held in Hong Kong

countries, add glory to the “golden age” of China-UK relations, and make new and greater contributions to a global community of shared future.

On December 6th-7th 2018, the in the exchanges of humanities and China-UK Humanities Annual Forum China-UK culture between the uni- Chen Xu, on behalf of the forum was held at the Chinese University of versities of the two countries. Hong organizer, the China-UK Association Hong Kong, one of the founding uni- Kong is honored to host this year’s for the Humanities in Higher Edu- versities of the China-UK Association humanities forum and hopes that cation, and Tsinghua University, a for the Humanities in Higher Educa- the forum will bring new vision and founding university of the association. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, inspiration. tion, welcomed and thanked everyone Chief Executive of the Hong Kong for coming. She said that education, Special Administrative Region, Tan especially higher education, played Tieniu, Deputy Director of the Central an important role in international People’s Government’s Liaison Office cultural exchanges and has far-reach- in Hong Kong, Chen Xu, Chairper- ing influence and important value in son of Tsinghua University Council promoting humanism and enhancing and Chairman of the China-UK Asso- mutual learning among civilizations. ciation for the Humanities in Higher The China-UK Association for the Education, Jeff Streeter, Director of Humanities in Higher Education the British Council in Hong Kong, was dedicated to promoting academ- Rocky S. Tuan, Vice-Chancellor and ic, educational and related exchanges President of the Chinese University of Tan Tieniu noted it was of great among members of the association, Hong Kong and Yang Bin, Vice Presi- significance for the forum to be held enhancing the vitality of humanities dent of Tsinghua University attended in Hong Kong. With the rapid devel- research and training high-caliber the opening ceremony. opment of science and technology in young talents capable of addressing Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor today’s world, countries all over the the complex issues of the times. noted that both China and the UK world are facing many common chal- have a profound cultural founda- lenges, and people are increasingly tion. The members of the China-UK aware that humanism is an indis- Association for the Humanities in pensable part of the development of Higher Education are all top univer- science and technology. He hoped sities in both countries. The annual that the association would further humanities forum hosted by the asso- strengthen the cultural exchanges ciation plays a very important role between the universities of the two

13DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER Chen Xu said that Tsinghua University has always valued the interaction between Chinese and Western cultures, the ancient and modern, the sciences and humanities, attaching importance to the development of high-quality and profound humanities education, vigorous- ly developing the humanities, and endeavoring to build a world-class university on the “roots” of China’s cultural tradition and humanistic spirit, which laid a profound foundation for Tsinghua to carry out global education cooperation and to promote topic of “China and the Humanities”, The “China-UK Association for the development of the humanities at and more than 80 guests, experts and the Humanities in Higher Education” home and abroad. Tsinghua Universi- scholars were invited to have won- was proposed by Tsinghua Univer- ty would like to work with all member derful discussions and exchanges on sity in 2016 and jointly initiated by universities to promote humanities topics such as humanities research, 12 Chinese and British universities, education and cultural exchanges humanities education, humanities with 17 member universities so far. between China and the UK, influence tradition and the globalization of the It aims to strengthen, consolidate and drive neighboring universities humanities in China. and develop academic cooperation and regions, and contribute to the and cultural exchanges between Chi- promotion of cultural exchange and nese and British universities through development in all countries around cross-cultural dialogue and cooper- the world. ation in the fields of the humanities This was the third year for and humanitarian education. the China-UK Association for the Humanities in Higher Education to carry out its annual academic activities. This year’s forum focused on the

From December 6th to 7th, Chen Chen Xu visits Hong Kong Xu, Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee and Chair- Strengthen Exchanges and Cooperation person of University Council and Yang Bin, Vice President of Tsin- between Tsinghua and Hong Kong ghua University and Chairman of Tsinghua University Education Foun- dation, met with Tung Chee-hwa, former Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Vice Chairman of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consulta- tive Conference, and Wang Zhimin, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region visited the Chinese Universi- ty of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER14 for in-depth discussions on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between Tsinghua University and Hong Kong. They also visited Yong Chi Hsing, a senior alumna of Tsin- ghua who is now over 100 years old, and they had extensive exchanges with Tsinghua alumni in Hong Kong. On December 6th, Chen Xu and Tung Chee Hwa exchanged insights on the recent development and long- term planning of the university. Chen Xu thanked Mr. Tung Chee Hwa for his long-term guidance relating to Tsinghua University and introduced the recent development of the university in talent cultivation, scientific research and global Zhimin and Tan Tieniu, Deputy Chinese mainland and Hong Kong in strategy. Chen Xu noted that the Director of the Liaison Office of the terms of education, technology and university was always prioritizing Central People’s Government in the the humanities. the improvement of the quality of Hong Kong Special Administrative students, promoting the reform of Region to conduct in-depth discus- education and teaching, and improv- sions on further deepening exchanges ing students’ ability to participate in and cooperation between Tsinghua international exchanges and global University and Hong Kong. competence. At the same time, with Wang Zhimin noted that as the construction of think tanks as a top university in the country, an important development direction, Tsinghua University had actively pro- the university has established a think moted exchanges and cooperation tank center and given full play to the with Hong Kong for many years and inter-disciplinary advantages of the had established extensive coopera- On December 6th, Chen Xu university. tion with Hong Kong in education, and Yang Bin held talks with the Tung Chee Hwa said that Tsin- science and technology, humanities, Vice-Chancellor and President, ghua University, a prestigious and other fields. It is hoped that Tsin- Rocky S. Tuan, Vice Presidents Fok university, was very important for ghua University will continue to play Tai-fai and Poon Wai-yin of the Chi- the development of the country by a leading role in promoting exchanges nese University of Hong Kong to training top talents and making and cooperation between universities further explore the mechanism of independent scientific research in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, deepening cooperation. On Decem- achievements. Especially at this stage, and in the construction of the Great- ber 7th, Chen Xu and Yang Bin held when many countries and regions er Bay Area. The Liaison Office of the talks with President Wei Shyy, Vice still have a limited understanding of Central People’s Government in the President Sabrina Lin, and Associ- China, Chinese universities should Hong Kong Special Administrative ate Vice President Enboa Wu of the go global and carry out various forms Region will, as always provide strong Hong Kong University of Science and of exchange to promote mutual trust. support for the exchanges and coop- Technology on issues such as inter- He expressed appreciation for Tsin- eration between Tsinghua University disciplinary studies, international ghua University’s ability to set up a and various sectors in Hong Kong. education and joint talent training. research institute on climate change Chen Xu said that Tsinghua On the afternoon of December and sustainable development and a University was willing to further 6th, Chen Xu and Yang Bin also vis- research center on strategy and secu- strengthen communication with all ited Yong Chi Hsing, a senior alumna rity. sectors in Hong Kong and contribute of Tsinghua University. They thanked On December 7th, Chen Xu to promoting exchanges and coop- her for her concern and support for and Yang Bin visited Director Wang eration between universities of the the development of her alma mater

15DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER and congratulated her on her upcom- ing 102nd birthday. On the evening of December 7th, Chen Xu and Yang Bin also attended the Hong Kong Tsinghua Alumni meeting. This year coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Tsinghua University Student Art Troupe. Alumni in Hong Kong who had been a member of different Student Associations at Tsinghua University also presented wonderful shows for the event.

The CubeSat X-ray polarimeter led by Tsinghua University detects first light events

High-sensitivity X-ray polarim- space, implying that a new window started efforts to detect X-ray polar- etry is a window not yet opened in in X-ray astronomy can be opened in ization from celestial objects. In 1971, astronomy due to technical difficul- the future. Currently, more tests and an experiment onboard a sounding ties. PolarLight, with a miniature observations are being carried out rocket opened a ray of hope. In 1975, X-ray polarimeter onboard a CubeSat, with PolarLight. with a polarimeter on the OSO-8 sat- is a space program to test a novel X-rays are electromagnetic ellite, they eventually measured the technique for X-ray polarimetry. The waves with very short wavelengths. X-ray polarization from the Crab CubeSat was launched into orbit on Cosmic X-rays cannot be observed nebula at a high significance. How- October 29th, 2018. On December on the ground because of the absorp- ever, due to the low sensitivity of the 18th, the detector was powered on tion of the Earth’s atmosphere. In detector, there is no positive detec- for in-orbit test, and detected the first 1962, X-ray astronomy was born tion from any other sources. In 2001, events triggered by cosmic X-rays with a rocket flight. As X-ray polar- high-sensitivity X-ray polarimetry and charged particles. This is the first ization can help address important was first demonstrated possible in time that such a new technique for astrophysical questions, only 6 years the INFN-Pisa lab using a new tech- X-ray polarimetry is demonstrated in after that, astronomers in the US nique, based on which comes with

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER16 the PolarLight proposal. The Polar- Light concept aims for an in-orbit test of the new technique, to demonstrate and increase the technical readiness of the detector needed for future large missions, such as the enhanced X-ray Timing and Polarimetry (eXTP). The PolarLight project is a collaboration including the Tsinghua University, IHEP, INFN-Pisa, Ningbo University of Technology, the North Night Vision Technology, IAPS, and SpaceTY. Figure 1. The PolarLight detector and the CubeSat.

The Third China-Israel Innovation Forum held in Shenzhen

From November 30th to Decem- innovation. “World-class universities University. From the XIN Center at ber 1st, 2018, the Third China-Israel should not only harness their own Tsinghua University to the China-Is- Innovation Forum, jointly sponsored unique education methods for greater rael 7+7 Research University Alliance, by Tel Aviv University, Tsinghua development, but also take advantage a solid foundation for long-term coop- University and the Morn-ingside of new resources and opportunities to eration has been laid out between the Group, was held in Shenzhen. This enhance their global innovative capa- two universities. President Joseph forum aims to promote cooperative bilities.” The China-Israel Innovation Krafter expressed his expectation re-search and cooperative techno- Forum, jointly launched by Tsing- for the two sides to further deepen logical exploration and to foster joint hua University, Tel Aviv University friendship and strengthen coopera- ventures between the two countries. and the Morningside Group in 2016, tion. President Qiu Yong of Tsinghua Uni- has always focused on the theme of versity, President Joseph Klafter of innovation. The Third China-Israel Tel Aviv University, and Ronnie C. Innovation Forum has established a Chan, Co-founder of the Morningside good platform for China-Israel coop- Group and Chairman of Hang Lung eration and development in the field Properties attended the opening cer- of innovation. It was hoped that the emony. Also presented at the opening participants could engage in an open ceremony were His Excellency Zvi dialogue and inspire one anoth- Heifetz, Ambassador of the State of er to contribute greater wisdom and Israel to China, Vice Mayor Wang energy for the innovative develop- Lixin of Shenzhen, and, attended the ment of both countries. In his speech, His Excellency opening ceremony of the forum and President Joseph Krafter of Tel Zvi Heifetz, Ambassador of the State delivered speeches. Aviv University pointed out that of Israel to China, said that he was President Qiu noted in his address Tsinghua Uni-versity has always pleased to see the vigorous develop- that the 21st century was an era of been a long-term partner of Tel Aviv ment of cooperation between China

17DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER and Israel in the field of higher education. This cooperation between Chinese and Israeli universities had a broad scope as it not only covered scientific and technological innovation and research results but also effec- tively promoted exchanges between the two sides in the fields of education, economy and culture. China had proposed and actively implemented “the Belt and Road Initiative”, providing a broad space for China-Israel cooperation. Tsinghua University was rich in human resources and research forces, and would certainly play an important role in promoting the development of China-Israel relations. At the opening ceremony of Professor Dr. Ignacio E. Grossmann of the forum, guests jointly unveiled TAU-TBSI Innovation Collaborative Carnegie Mellon University appointed as Office in Shenzhen, which serves as Shenzhen’s point of contact for Distinguished Visiting Professor of strategic cooperation between the Tsinghua University Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Insti- tute (TBSI) and Tel Aviv University. On the afternoon of December Professor Ignacio E. Grossmann is It will assist the two sides in research 11th, Professor Dr. Ignacio E. Gross- a member of the National Academy of cooperation, academic exchanges, mann of Carnegie Mellon University, Engineering. He is currently the Uni- university-enterprise cooperation was appointed as the Distinguished versity Professor (highest designation and bilateral commercial exchang- Visiting Professor of Tsinghua Uni- at Carnegie Mellon University) of the es in the future. This provides more versity. Vice President Zheng Li Department of Chemical Engineer- support for bilateral talent exchanges, attended the ceremony and presented ing at Carnegie Mellon University. academic ex-changes, achievement the letter of appointment to Professor He has a high reputation internation- transformation, project incuba- Grossmann. After the ceremony, Pro- ally in the fields of process systems tion and international cooperation. fessor Grossmann presented a theme engineering, operations research and Yaron Oz, Rector of Tel Aviv Uni- report entitled “Evolution of Pro- management science, and is known as versity, and Zhang Lin, Co-Director cess Systems Engineering and Future the leading figure of process systems of the Tsinghua - Berkeley Shenzhen Trends in Research”. engineering. Institute, pointed out that the Inno- vation Liaison Office acts as a bridge to undertake the transformation, and to promote cooperative technolo-gies between the two universities in Shenzhen and the coordinated development of regional innovation. During the forum, guests from China and Israel discussed five areas covering artificial intelligence, the world economic order, digital health, blockchain and regional civilization exchanges.

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER18 Tsinghua International Students & Scholars’ Gala Night 2019

On the night of Dec. 15th, 2018, the Tsinghua International Students & Scholars’ Gala Night 2019 took place in the auditorium of the New Tsinghua Xuetang. Hundreds of students and faculty members gathered to enjoy the mesmerizing show that more than 200 performers worked tirelessly to put up. With a total of 22 acts from around the world, the show was more diversified than ever before. Countries from all five continents were represented during the evening. Dancing, singing, drumming, modern and traditional, there was something for everybody. “The diver- sity of the 2019 Gala Night perfectly highlighted the international spirit of collaboration and the rich culture that we all experience here at Tsing- hua!” said student Alice Osborne. The show ended with a round of thunderous applause. “A showcase of extraordinary talent with Broadway production value, very impressive!” said Visiting Professor Doug Har- brecht.

19DECEMBER | TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER