TSINGHUA NEWSLETTER 2020 CONTENTS P01

China-US University Presidents’ Online Forum / 01 TSINGHUA NEWS-2020 IN REVIEW Tsinghua University’s Vanke School of Public Health recently set up its first international advisory board Chinese President Xi Jinping sends letter in reply to student representatives of the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate Tsinghua co-hosts China-Italy University Presidents' Forum Spring semester begins online Tsinghua SPPM hosts 2020 Global Advisory Board Meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping inspects COVID-19 scientific research, diagnosis and treatment AUA Presidents Forum held on building resilient Asian universities Global universities convene online to share experience in combating COVID-19 Special Dialogue: Online Education in the COVID-19 Response and Beyond Tsinghua University establishes the Vanke School of Public Health SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION / 45 Tsinghua hosts WPF special video conference Tsinghua researchers invent metal that refuses to sink Tsinghua University hosts first-ever online commencement ceremony A new mechanism of Ising pairing in Science Tsinghua holds seminar on “Higher Education in Cloud - Promise, Experience, and Expectation” P45 The structural basis for the cell entry of the 2019 novel coronavirus Tsinghua held Global Summer School (GSS) 2020 Reopening the window of soft X-ray polarimetry Tsinghua launched 110th Anniversary Logo Tsinghua and Sogou release World's First Smart Keyboard for the Visually Impaired Tsinghua begins its Fall semester combining online and offline learning P57 Tsinghua University partners with Bosch to advance AI research 18th Symposium on Scientific Research concludes TBSI researchers develop efficient perovskite solar cells through green anti-solvent engineering Tsinghua jointly held China-US University Presidents’ Online Forum Prof. Huaqiang Cao’s group published a research article in Nature Communications, reporting Tsinghua co-hosts China-Italy University Presidents’ Forum to promote innovation for shared future important progress in research into phosphorene nanobelts AUA Presidents Forum held on building resilient Asian universities Researchers elucidate Molecular Mechanisms of Glycosylase AlkD in Target Search and Tsinghua SEM holds 2020 Advisory Board Meeting Recognition of DNA Damage First Global MOOC Conference held at Tsinghua University New bioprinting method for gastric wounds Tsinghua SPPM hosts 2020 Global Advisory Board Meeting 18th Symposium on Scientific Research concludes Tsinghua Vanke School of Public Health unveils its international advisory board President Qiu calls for further cooperation by universities with UN to achieve SDGs at UN SDSN’s webinar DIVERSE CAMPUS / 57

Tsinghua celebrates 109th anniversary online / 09 FOCUS Tsinghua University hosts first-ever online commencement ceremony The Power of Tsinghua Community in Fighting the Epidemic P09 Tsinghua launches virtual exhibition for graduating art students Higher Education in Cloud: Tsinghua 2020 Brighter career pathways for Tsinghua and Hubei graduates Tsinghua holds seminar on “Higher Education in Cloud - Promise, Experience, and Expectation” Tsinghua welcomes new graduates GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT / 21 Tsinghua begins its Fall semester combining online and offline learning Tsinghua Launches 110th Anniversary Logo Global universities convene online AUA Tsinghua holds opening ceremony to welcome new undergraduates Special Dialogue: Online Education in the COVID-19 Response and Beyond Tsinghua launches Institute for Intelligent Society Governance Tsinghua hosts WPF special video conference Department of Automation of Tsinghua University celebrates its 50th anniversary Fighting COVID-19 Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology celebrates its 60th anniversary Joint symposium on COVID-19 UN SDSN’s webinar Tsinghua Global Summer School (GSS) 2020 Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit TSINGHUA COMMUNITY / 69 The Tsinghua Southeast Asia Cloud Forum ConnectingTsinghua “Healthy China” seminar P21 P69 Tsinghua Story 2020 TSINGHUA NEWSLETTER TSINGHUA NEWS 2020 IN REVIEW

Global universities convene online to share experience in combating COVID-19 Special Dialogue: Online Education in the COVID-19 An online meeting, organized by the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), was attended by Response and Beyond 15 universities around the world to discuss On the evening of April 24th, Beijing time, fighting the COVID-19 pandemic on March a Special Dialogue was held online. Co- 27th. The meeting featured the sharing of convened by Tsinghua University and university response measures, with a view to UNESCO, the Special Dialogue explored the identifying areas of cooperation on education extraordinary challenges to ensure higher and scientific research. In this way, the meeting learning continuity during the COVID-19 Chinese President Xi Jinping echoed sentiments expressed at the G20 pandemic. Themed “Online Education in Extraordinary Leaders' Summit on COVID-19 on inspects COVID-19 scientific the COVID-19 Response and Beyond”, the March 26th, where President Xi Jinping called research, diagnosis and dialogue shared university case studies, best on the international community to strengthen Tsinghua University treatment practice, and experience in online education. confidence, act with unity and work together establishes the Vanke School Spring semester begins online Chinese President Xi Jinping inspected the in a collective response against COVID-19. of Public Health scientific research on novel coronavirus During the meeting, presidents, vice-presidents Tsinghua University and China Vanke Co. On February 17th, Tsinghua's Spring semester disease (COVID-19) as well as the diagnosis and representatives from the 15 universities Ltd. signed a cooperation agreement on began. Setting up their mobile phones or and treatment of the disease in his visit shared their actions, experience and views on April 2nd to establish the Vanke School computers and taking out their notebooks, to two Institutes in Beijing. He visited the topics such as the roles universities can play in of Public Health, which will boost talent Tsinghua students from all over the world Academy of Military Medical Sciences and education and scientific research during the training, scientific research and further were well prepared for their first class of the School of Medicine at Tsinghua University pandemic. enhance China’s capabilities in public the new semester. Online courses offered on March 2nd, learning about the progress health management. Drawing on Tsinghua’s students the opportunity to make good on the vaccine, antibodies, medicine and fast Chinese President Xi Jinping multidisciplinary advantages, the School use of their time away from campus while testing kit research and application. President sends letter in reply to will adopt new models of interdisciplinary reducing their exposure to the virus. For Xi gave his regards to experts and researchers student representatives of the cooperation and education. It is aimed at Spring semester 2020, Tsinghua offered 4,254 and chaired a symposium to listen to the Global Alliance of Universities covering four research fields, and is oriented course sessions in total, delivered by 2,681 views and advice from officials of relevant on Climate towards graduate education in preventative faculty members to 25,091 students. Of these, departments and researchers. 3,923 sessions are available online. medicine, comprehensive healthcare, big On January 6th, Chinese President Xi data in healthcare, and public health policy Jinping sent a letter in reply to the student and management. representatives of the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC), expressing his appreciation for their common concern for the planet and future of mankind.

01 02 TSINGHUA NEWS 2020 TSINGHUA NEWSLETTER 2020 IN REVIEW

Tsinghua University Tsinghua launched 110th Tsinghua begins its Fall hosts first-ever online Anniversary Logo semester combining online commencement ceremony and offline learning On September 1st, Tsinghua University released a commemorative logo for its Tsinghua University began its Fall semester Tsinghua University held its 2020 110 years’ anniversary. The elements in by holding the first university-wide lectures commencement ceremonies for the logo reflected the profound culture of of the semester. The first lectures in the 2020 undergraduate and postgraduate students Tsinghua University. The "110" in the logo Fall semester were held in the main building online. The online commencement reflects the fact that Tsinghua people have of the university and were broadcast live on ceremonies were livestreamed world- inherited fine traditions, have explored various media platforms, including Tsinghua’s wide on various media and social media Tsinghua holds seminar on Tsinghua held Global and innovated bravely and have striven to own online teaching platform “Rain platforms including Facebook and Twitter open a new chapter in Tsinghua's second Classroom”, in both Chinese and English. in both Chinese and English. Students “Higher Education in Cloud Summer School (GSS) 2020 hundred years, which is manifested in Unlike the Spring semester, which was held Tsinghua hosts WPF special who were unable to return to the - Promise, Experience, and The Tsinghua Global Summer School was the 110th anniversary theme "Strive for completely online due to the pandemic, video conference university, and their families and friends Expectation” held online in July for nine days, offering Excellence, Innovate for the Future." Tsinghua’s Fall semester is going to see watched the virtual celebration from the courses on the theme "Toward a Post- classes being taught both online and offline. The World Peace Forum (WPF) special comfort of their own homes. Tsinghua University convened a seminar video conference on “Post-Pandemic Era: on July 3rd to review its success in online Pandemic World." More than 1,000 students China and the World” opened on June 16th. teaching during the pandemic, share from 154 universities across 79 countries and Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong, who useful experience and explore new ways regions were enrolled in this online summer is also Chairman of the forum, delivered the to further improve its online education school. Tsinghua University President Qiu welcoming remarks at the opening session of system in the future. Yong said the GSS would inspire the young the two-day virtual conference of the forum, students to rethink and reimagine the global which is China’s first non-governmental high- community and define our responsibility in a level forum on international security initiated post-pandemic world. by Tsinghua University in 2012.

03 04 TSINGHUA NEWS 2020 TSINGHUA NEWSLETTER 2020 IN REVIEW

Tsinghua jointly held China- AUA Presidents Forum held on building US University Presidents’ resilient Asian universities

Online Forum The Asian Universities Alliance (AUA) with the COVID-19 crisis for sustainable The China-US University Presidents’ Online Presidents Forum 2020, jointly organized by survival and progressive development, and Forum, jointly organized by Tsinghua the AUA Executive Presidency 2020-2021, to co-create and develop, through hindsight University and Yale University, was held on Nazarbayev University (NU), and the AUA and foresight, knowledge for more robust October 13th, bringing together leaders Secretariat, was held online on November and resilient university systems capable of from 20 leading Chinese and American 26th. The forum brought leaders of 15 AUA withstanding and responding to continuous, universities to explore the development member universities together to share their and probably more severe, uncertainties and of higher education and to strengthen Tsinghua co-hosts China-Italy knowledge from the experience of coping challenges in the future. the post-pandemic resilience of university University Presidents’ Forum collaboration and networks. to promote innovation for 18th Symposium on Scientific shared future Research concludes On the evening of November 5th, the eve of Tsinghua SEM holds 2020 The Closing Ceremony for the 18th Symposium the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Advisory Board Meeting on Scientific Research took place both online diplomatic relations between China and Italy, and offline on October 9th. The theme of this Tsinghua University and the Politecnico di Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed year’s symposium was “Innovate research Milano co-hosted the China - Italy University the 2020 meeting of the Tsinghua model to build a world-class university Presidents’ Forum. University School of Economics and innovation system”. Launched in March, it Management Advisory Board via video lasted for six months and went through link and expressed his congratulations three stages: the discussion of problems, the on the 20th anniversary of the board. The presentation of reports and the conclusion. 2020 Meeting of the board was held on Initiated in 1956, altogether 18 symposiums on December 3rd at Tsinghua University. Scientific Research have been held up to this year and it has become a tradition to advance scientific research work at Tsinghua.

05 06 TSINGHUA NEWS 2020 TSINGHUA NEWSLETTER 2020 IN REVIEW

First Global MOOC Conference Tsinghua SPPM hosts 2020 President Qiu calls for further held at Tsinghua University Global Advisory Board Meeting cooperation by universities with UN to achieve SDGs at UN The Global MOOC Conference was held at The 2020 Global Advisory Board Meeting SDSN’s webinar Tsinghua University from December 9th to of Tsinghua’s School of Public Policy and 11th. With the theme of “Learning Revolution Management (SPPM) was held on November Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong urged and Higher Education Transformation”, 7th. The meeting, held combining both universities around the world to further this event was the first global conference online and offline channels under the theme strengthen cooperation with the United featuring MOOC since its rise. China's Minister “Challenges of Global Governance and Nations (UN) to achieve the Sustainable of Education Chen Baosheng delivered a Cultivation of Public Management Talents,” Development Goals (SDGs) and address the keynote speech, sharing the practical insights, brought together 25 advisory board members most urgent global challenges such as climate innovation and exploration of China’s MOOCs from China and abroad to assess gaps exposed change. President Qiu delivered his remarks at and online education. The Global MOOC by the covid crisis in global governance, the webinar for presidents of global universities Alliance – composed of 17 universities and exchange ideas to strengthen it in the post- with the UN Secretary-General entitled three online education institutions from Covid world, and set priorities for the further Tsinghua Vanke School of "University Sector Support to UN Secretary- around the world – was officially launched development of the school accordingly. Chinese Public Health unveils its General's Call for a Decade of Action on the at the conference to promote high-quality State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi SDGs" on July 9th. online education. attended the opening ceremony of the meeting, international advisory board and delivered a speech entitled, “Uploading Multilateralism to Tackle Global Challenges.” Tsinghua University’s Vanke School of Public Health set up its first international advisory board on October 20th to bring great minds together and seek academic and other scientific and technical input for the further development of the recently-established school as well as for China’s public health sector. The board is composed of 34 well-known experts and scholars from 12 countries around the world, including deans of world-famous public health schools, leaders of non-governmental organizations, public health sector leaders, and outstanding entrepreneurs. Dr Margaret Chan, founding Dean of the school, presided over the meeting and introduced the board's background and constitution.

07 08 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

The Power of the Tsinghua Community in fighting the Epidemic

Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in China, the Tsinghua community has taken on the responsibility to join the collective fight against the spread of the virus. Drawing on Tsinghua's strengths, our community has been contributing valuable skills and Uncovering COVID-19 Respiratory virus nucleic COVID-19 intelligent efforts during this period. replication transcription acid detection kit medical system machinery COVID-19 antibodies Professor Rao Zihe’s team and Shanghai Tech Professor Cheng Jing’s team worked with the Professor Dong Jiahong led a medical and vaccine University’s team were the first in the world West China Hospital of Sichuan University engineering team that developed a to decode the exact architecture of the RdRp- and CapitalBio Corporation to successfully COVID-19 intelligent medical system, using Research teams led by Professor Zhang nsp7-nsp8 at the atomic level, uncovering develop the Respiratory Virus Nucleic Acid big data, IoT, and AI technology to create an Linqi from the School of Medicine have the RNA-synthesis machinery and providing a Detection Kit (Isothermal Amplification on integrated solution for community network been identifying neutralizing antibodies basis for drug development. Disk Chip), the first in the world to detect monitoring for virus control, intelligent from convalescent patients and developing six types of respiratory virus simultaneously medical technology, and post-hospital safe and effective treatments for COVID-19. within 1.5 hours. The kit, which includes patient monitoring. In late February, Tsinghua Together with Professor Wang Xinquan from SARSCoV-2 among the six viruses, provides donated the proprietary COVID-19 intelligent the School of Life Sciences, Professor Zhang Understanding human patients with a quick and accurate diagnosis. control and prevention system to the resolved the crystal structure of COVID-19 adaptive immunity to Soon after the National Medical Products Wuhan Municipal Government and medical RBD in complex with receptor ACE2, SARS-CoV-2 Administration's approval, Tsinghua provided institutions, which was put into use at eight providing structural insight and identifying Wuhan with four sets of testing equipment COVID-19 hospitals, one cabin hospital, and the precise target for vaccine design. In Professor Dong Chen’s team collaborated with Tsinghua On March 2, Chinese President Xi Jinping and donated testing chips and reagents for 72 quarantine zones. collaboration with Dr. Zhang Zheng at the Chui Yang Liu Hospital, which is affiliated to inspected the scientific research into the 12,000 persons. Researchers Shenzhen Third People’s Hospital, Professor Tsinghua University, and the China Academy novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as well Zhang and his team isolated several potent of Military Medical Sciences to analyze blood as the diagnosis and treatment of the disease human neutralizing monoclonal antibodies samples from discharged COVID-19 patients. "Science and technology are the most during his visit to Tsinghua University. from recovered patients, providing They found that both humoral and cellular powerful weapon in humanity's battle Tsinghua launched a pilot research program promising candidates for antibody-based immunity participate in immune-mediated against diseases. Mankind cannot for virus prevention. Over 70 research project prophylactic and therapeutic intervention protection to viral infection. However, two- defeat a major disaster or epidemic applications have been received since against COVID-19. week-post discharged patients exhibited high without scientific development and January 30. titers of IgG antibodies, but with low levels technological innovation." of virus-specific T cells. This study lays the Research continues in advancing basic theoretical foundation for the diagnosis and Xi Jinping medical research and vaccine research, with a traceability of infected patients as well as the President of the People's Republic of China focus on assisted diagnosis, assisted medical development of therapeutic antibody drugs care, and new test kits and equipment. and vaccine research.

09 10 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

Tsinghua Students

During this period, Tsinghua University students also took action to curb the virus outbreak.

Ivana Todorovic, a Bosnian postgraduate student at Tsinghua University, joined the university’s many international students, scholars, and alumni who were trying all possible means to raise funds and medical supplies in a bid to support China in the fight against the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pneumonia.

Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ivana began pursuing her International Master of Public Health degree at Tsinghua’s School of Medicine in September 2019. She stayed in Beijing for the winter holiday to experience Chinese culture when her first Tsinghua semester ended in January. Changgung Hospital Tsinghua Alumni Tsinghua Faculty As the epidemic spread, Ivana had great sympathy for the Chinese people and began Tsinghua-affiliated hospitals dispatched Tsinghua alumni from all over the world Associations in the Massachusetts Institute From catering services to security and During the outbreak of the epidemic, staff trying to use her international resources in medical workers to hospitals and quarantine joined the fight against the epidemic. of Technology, Harvard University and the reception staff, various departments across from the Student Community Management zones in Wuhan and Beijing. Tsinghua Alumni Association at Greater Tsinghua worked around the clock to be of & Service Center have taken on additional health care to raise medical supplies. The Tsinghua Alumni Association in Hubei Boston contacted medical suppliers in the assistance. responsibilities. While providing living After the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, set up an anti-epidemic fundraising team "Actually, this is not easy," said Ivana. "Global United States to gather a large number of services for students in dormitories, a medical team comprised of 32 doctors on January 26 and issued a fundraising Food service is a top priority year-round medical supplies are becoming scarce and materials to support Hubei in fighting the staff have carried out daily cleaning and and 40 medical personnel from the Beijing announcement to all Tsinghua alumni. at Tsinghua and the catering department it is difficult to find reliable factories and epidemic. disinfection of elevators, corridors, public Tsinghua Changgung Hospital readily treated this period with even greater suppliers." The Tsinghua Alumni Association in areas and other locations. accepted a call to join the front lines, treating The Tsinghua Alumni Association in the attention. Catering provision is ongoing for Singapore also actively raised funds for Previously a teacher at the Medical High those who have been diagnosed with the UK contributed by raising funds, as well as students living in the Xinzhai Building, and Wuhan. School in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ivana novel coronavirus. purchasing and donating medical protection the Tsinghua Catering Services Centre is The Tsinghua community has demonstrated managed to contact the University of Banja The Tsinghua Alumni Association of materials. making special efforts to ensure daily service Before the team was formed, they received its courage and resilience in the battle against Luka in Bosnia and Herzegovina which then Southern Ontario Canada donated of healthy food. a letter from their colleague Zou Xiaozhao, a In addition, the Tsinghua Alumni Association the novel coronavirus. At this time, let us all donated a batch of masks to the Tsinghua epidemic prevention materials to domestic young doctor at Changgung hospital. in Germany, the Tsinghua Alumni Staff from the security department are come together to protect ourselves and our students on campus. hospitals. Association in Japan, the Tsinghua Alumni responsible for restricting campus entry loved ones, keep all those who are at the front In the letter, she requested to be allowed In addition, Ivana also participated in The North American Federation of Tsinghua Association in Switzerland, and many other during the coronavirus outbreak in order lines in our prayers and pass on our gratitude to join the medical team to fight the deadly activities organized by the Graduate Alumni Associations set up an anti- overseas alumni associations all over the to protect the health and safety of the to those who have joined and contributed to virus, claiming that treating those in need Association of Tsinghua University to support epidemic fund-raising committee to share world contributed to help find overseas Tsinghua community. The security guards at the fight against the epidemic. was also her duty as a doctor. The team China’s battle against the epidemic. resources with the Wuhan University Alumni sources of epidemic prevention materials the gates conduct security inspections, do of doctors accepted her request to join, Association, so that all donations were used such as masks and protective clothing, and temperature checks of those entering the "At first, I paid attention to the epidemic making her the 33rd and final doctor to join for the procurement of materials needed to have mobilized various forces to help. campus grounds, and meticulously register because it was closely related to my field of the team. expertise," Ivana said. "But as I learned more prevent and control the epidemic. all personnel who enter and leave the about it, I wished I could take action rather The volunteer team led by the Student university. than just observe it from a professional perspective."

11 12 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

Higher Education in the Cloud: Tsinghua 2020

Tsinghua has been putting every effort into "ensuring learning is undisrupted when classes are disrupted" from the first day of the COVID-19 outbreak. The move pushed “in cloud” higher education practice faster to the next level. In the past year, self-motivated Tsinghua people have kept their positive attitude and delivered a meaningful online teaching reform successfully through their preciseness, diligence and innovative spirit.

Online teaching during the pandemic Chronology

Tsinghua Online STAGE STAGE STAGE STAGE Teaching History

On October 10th 2013, Tsinghua University Tsinghua continues to promote the quality 1 2 3 4 launched the online MOOC platform and inclusiveness of education during the Planning and Smooth beginning In full swing Online Exams XuetangX. Tsinghua launched the first five sudden outbreak of COVID-19. In Spring preparation of the semester MOOCs on XuetangX. 2020, Tsinghua made a full transition from traditional classes to real-time online In 2014, Tsinghua University released a report On January 30th, Tsinghua University leaders On February 17th, Tsinghua started classes as On April 24th, a special dialogue on online From June 8th, students took the online final interactive courses, and a total of 4,471 online entitled “Opinions on Strengthening of Online announced the decision to “postpone the scheduled. education was jointly convened by Tsinghua exams. courses were delivered. Education.” start of the 2020 spring semester and start and UNESCO. On February 27th, the first online dissertation On June 12th, the Graduation Work Exhibition For the Fall Semester 2020, Tsinghua classes as scheduled”. In 2016, Tsinghua launched its own Rain defense was held. During this semester, 700 live general of the Academy of Arts and Design was implemented hybrid teaching and learning Classroom, a smart learning tool for On February 3rd, more than 50,000 students education courses offered by Tsinghua launched online. mode to overcome the challenging situation, live broadcast lessons, recorded videos, and faculty attended the first class through a On March 8th, Tsinghua University and through public platforms received nearly 200 in order to accommodate all students. From June 22nd to 23rd, Tsinghua held its interactions and to collect learning data. live broadcast. the Huazhong University of Science and million views. Technology shared the same lecture. first-ever online commencement ceremonies. In 2020, Tsinghua launched the international On February 6th, the online teaching experts’ version of the XuetangX platform. group was established and training for online teaching was launched.

13 14 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

Teaching across multiple time zones

Prof. Dag Westerstahl received the notice for online teaching when he was in Stockholm, Sweden, over Trouble-shooting, 8000km away. He immediately familiarized himself with the one technical problem related software and technical details, testing the system repeatedly with his assistants, colleagues and students to at a time find the most suitable teaching methods. Technical difficulties aside, online teaching came as a "There is no boundary for learning. The more difficult the test even for the experienced. “As I can’t see the students, time, the more we should cherish the opportunity to learn,” the biggest challenge to me is to keep the students said Westerstahl, Professor of Theoretical Philosophy and engaged online,” says Prof. Wang Gelin from the School Logic at Stockholm University and a member of the Royal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. However, she believes this Swedish Academy of Sciences. experience will help to enhance her teaching abilities.

To many foreign members of faculty like Westerstahl, the Customization Optimists embrace Prof. Vijay Kumar Pandey, who teaches the molecular basis of time difference is just one of the challenges to overcome leads the way technology cancer at the Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, cites the when conducting online teaching. restriction of discussion-based activities as one of his major challenges. He came up with two options to improve the Westerstahl overcame the seven-hour time difference Many Tsinghua teachers customized their classes to fit Many teachers have been excited by the move to remote situation. “First, after finishing presentations, we could discuss teaching his first online course. “Online teaching is a the unusual teaching condition. Prof. Richard Dunham, learning. The teaching staff have been very supportive using an alternative platform. Second, I might assign another challenge for me. The interaction with students and senior journalist and co-director of the Global Business of each other, sharing their discoveries every day as they time slot for one-to-one or group discussions.” homework marking will be conducted in different ways, Journalism program, brainstormed with former Tsinghua navigate the online teaching systems ahead of the new but I’m very confident that the students and myself will do Visiting Professor Steve Gunn and other American media semester. well conducting online learning.” professionals about his online course. Once they’ve figured out how to optimize teaching, they Associate Professor Sara J. Bice was still in Australia when He believes online teaching tools are the easiest way to had to provide guidelines for their students on how to she started teaching Globalization and Governance. bring senior academic friends to his students: “I could even learn from it. Many teachers creatively modified their She had to confront the new reality that her class was bring my students to Washington, D.C. for news interview course content accordingly, such as Maxime Hermand. composed of more than 40 students in 11 different time practice.” zones. “For the content of online teaching, I may add more He is already considering possibilities like shifting the grammar explanations and exercises. And I will prepare Bice redesigned her lectures and recorded video lectures in classroom to the International Center for Journalists, some dialogue exercises as homework in the video, ask the only two weeks’ time, following student feedback. National Press Club and museums. His students are also students to send me the recordings of their conversations, Emphasizing the importance of discussion, she arranged spread across 19 different time zones. and I will give feedback on their recordings.” online discussion classes four times a week, finding time Dunham seized the opportunity to show his students the slots that worked for everyone. three terracotta warriors he brought back on a previous After these sessions, online assignments and readings were trip from Xi’an. “I believe this will surely arouse the students’ arranged through the Rain Classroom, where students curiosity. I hope to take this opportunity to introduce my could ask questions and provide feedback for the class. international students to Chinese culture and history.”

15 16 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

“Since the implementation of online learning methods by Tsinghua University, various online platforms have been developed and put into use to ensure the smooth and Below are some opinions shared effective conduct of the teaching process. Apart from that, the by students and teachers on the lecturers have also been working tirelessly and dedicatedly to online classes: provide the best possible teaching services to their students. During this special period, Tsinghua students around the world have displayed a high level of self-discipline and strong commitment towards their pursuit of academic excellence. It “This outbreak has physically isolated students from their is hoped that the epidemic can be put under control very soon professors, and from each other. As a university professor, I'm so that everyone is able to return to the campus and carry out working with my colleagues and my students more closely learning activities as usual.” than ever, trying to use modern technology to shorten our physical distances. With the help of Rain Classroom, an —Khor Wei Sheng, application designed to facilitate ‘learner-centered’ learning, Junior, Malaysia, we managed to overcome numerous technical barriers, and School of Economics and Management greatly redesigned our teaching curriculum to make online learning a pleasure. This huge project was launched during the Spring Festival, only two weeks before February 17th when “Online teaching is a new challenge. As it is difficult to “The use of online teaching based on Rain Class is a proactive the spring semester began. The teaching ‘reform’ is a brave Bringing educators online continue direct face-to-face interaction between teachers and effective measure to deal with the novel coronavirus effort made jointly by the administrators and faculties as well and students at this moment, the smooth development of epidemic. It can ensure the safety of students while minimizing as students and is believed to be a ‘revolution’. I got actively courses and the guarantee of teaching quality all depend on the impact on learning. Therefore, we support online teaching. On February 17th, at 8 a.m., more than 150 course sessions involved and worked closely with professors across various careful preparation by teachers. In this class, our teacher even Meanwhile, online teaching has the advantage of staying commenced. Tsinghua faculty and students welcomed the disciplines (through our common goal for adapting to online prepared the bell to sound at the beginning and end of the at home and enjoying rich teaching resources. In particular, new semester on their computers and smartphones. teaching and EMI teaching promptly). Since February 17th, class. They interacted with students through multiple choice Tsinghua has also launched an online series of society-oriented successful cases were shared and celebrated among the questions, roll call and the shared group chat screen, which courses, which reflects the university’s social responsibility and Even in a digital classroom, some things never change: the faculties and never have the teaching community been closer. played an active role in the teaching process.” commitment to society. We very much agree with this practice.” most memorable courses are those taught by teachers Tsinghua, I am so proud of you!” genuinely interested in sharing the knowledge they have —Cui Ruoyu, —Li Huanhuan, fallen in love with. This passion for education is a time- —Qian Jing, first-year Ph.D. candidate, master’s student from the Class of 192, honored tradition at Tsinghua. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering School of Marxism School of Social Sciences In the Spring semester this year, Tsinghua offered a total of 4,254 courses taught by 2,681 faculty members to 25,091 students. Apart from laboratories and practical courses, all 3,923 sessions are available online.

As many as 73 international faculty members based in four continents delivered 152 course sessions online covering disciplines such as science, engineering, literature, art, history, philosophy, economics, management, law, education and medicine.

17 18 2020 TSINGHUA FOCUS NEWSLETTER

Tsinghua begins its Fall semester Tsinghua initiated Global MOOC with hybrid learning Alliance (GMA)

The Global MOOC Alliance was officially launched on First lecture of 2020 Fall December 11th at the 2020 Global MOOC Conference, jointly hosted by Tsinghua University and the UNESCO The first lectures in the 2020 Fall semester were held in Institute for Information Technologies in Education the main building of the university and were broadcast (UNESCO IITE). live on various media platforms, including Tsinghua’s China's Minister of Education Chen Baosheng attended own online teaching platform “Rain Classroom”, in both the conference and delivered a keynote speech. Qiu Yong, Chinese and English. the President of Tsinghua University, Stefania Giannini, Tsinghua University Council Chairperson Chen Xu and UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Education, and Tsinghua President Qiu Yong delivered their lectures, Andreas Schleicher, OECD’s Director for Education and Skills which were remotely attended by nearly 50,000 and Special Advisor to the Secretary-General delivered Tsinghua students, faculty, staff members, and alumni opening addresses. Representatives and guests from representatives, including more than 3,800 undergraduate more than 2,000 international organizations, government freshmen who are all set to begin their Tsinghua journey. agencies, universities and online education institutions THE Higher Education attended the conference offline and virtually. Unlike the Spring semester, which was held completely Forum online due to the pandemic, Tsinghua’s Fall semester is The members of the alliance include Tsinghua University, going to see classes being taught both online and offline. Cornell University, the Center for Research and On September 1st and 2nd, the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinarity (CRI), edX platform, the Mongolian Chairperson Chen Xu delivered her lecture, entitled (THE) World Academic Summit was held online. Tsinghua University of Science and Technology, Nanyang “Unwavering Commitment to Our Sense of Duty and Our University discussed and shared the prospects for post- Technological University, Peking University, Polytechnic Endeavor”. pandemic higher education with leading thinkers from all University of Milan, Rice University, RWTH Aachen over the world. University, Saint Petersburg State University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Thai MOOC platform, the University During the speech, President Qiu elaborated on the Conclusion of Auckland, the University of Chile, the University of challenges that have emerged for higher education Manchester, the University of Nairobi, the University of institution in 2020. He noted that these challenges, From pure online courses to hybrid learning, from Toronto, XuetangX and Zhejiang University. however, represented renewal of hope. He believed university pilot schemes to the Global MOOC Alliance, that as a result of the changes made in the face of these The alliance will serve as a leading platform to build a Tsinghua has been the avant-garde in higher education challenges, the university’s role in contributing to solving diverse community of universities and online education evolution. Covid-19 may accelerate this process, and we global challenges would become more prominent. platforms from all over the world, facilitate international look forward to Tsinghua's future action on creating an cooperation and exchanges in educational technologies equal, safe and convenient education system. Tsinghua's Vice President and Provost Yang Bin shared and innovation to improve the quality of global MOOC and examples that support the view that 2020 is a “new dawn” online education. for higher education. Yang believed that global higher education was a big step closer to the realization of The alliance will also help its members roll out online "hybrid education" which transcended merely "teaching" education practices in regions across the world, through and "learning". collaborative teaching, capacity building, knowledge sharing, and publicity, and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

19 20 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

“Universities can demonstrate the of Science and Technology; Subhasis University; Hong Keehyun, Vice President for aspiration of education by taking on social Chaudhuri, Director, Indian Institute of Academic Affairs & Dean of Graduate School, responsibilities,” said President Qiu. Over the Technology Bombay; Tan Eng Chye, President, Seoul National University; Sawako Shirahase, Global universities past two months, Tsinghua has maintained National University of Singapore; Shigeo Executive Vice President, The University of close contact with other university leaders Katsu, President, Nazarbayev University; Tokyo; and Antonio Fiori, Rector’s Delegate for convene online AUA and global partners, exchanging best practice Ghaleb Alhadrami Al Breiki, Acting Vice International Relations with Asia and Oceania, and providing mutual support. Meanwhile, Chancellor & Provost, United Arab Emirates University of Bologna. They expressed their massive online resources to the public have University; Agustin Kusumayati, University strong willingness to join hands, strengthen been opened, and “clone class” courses were Secretary & Head of Universitas Indonesia Task collaborative endeavors and discover Global universities convene online to share created to share online educational resources Force for COVID-19, Universitas Indonesia; solutions for the fight against COVID-19. with universities in Wuhan and other remote Yves Flückiger, Rector, University of Geneva; The heads also discussed topics including experience in combating COVID-19 areas, and a team of medical workers Yonghua Song, Rector, University of Macau; collaborative activities with the AUA and dispatched to Wuhan and volunteer works Arif Al-Hammadi, Executive Vice President, beyond and resource sharing, among other An online meeting, organized by the Asian In his opening speech, Qiu Yong, Tsinghua has begun offering online classes to students organized, both online and off-line. Khalifa University; Akira Fujimaki, Trustee topics. Tsinghua University Vice President and Universities Alliance (AUA), was attended by 15 University President and President of AUA, across the country and the world since Feb (Education and Academic Information Provost Yang Bin chaired the meeting. President Qiu also announced that Tsinghua universities around the world to discuss fighting welcomed the university leaders to join in 17th. “Teaching and learning should not Infrastructure), Vice President, Nagoya has set up a research fund to encourage and the COVID-19 pandemic on March 27th. the online forum organized by AUA. He noted be undermined under any circumstances. support its faculty to initiate joint research that this is a difficult time for all of us and the University education is neither spontaneous with international partners on COVID-19. The meeting featured the sharing of university outbreak of COVID-19 reminds us that we nor sporadic. Rather, it is a well-designed response measures, with a view to identifying share a global community. systematic program with comprehensive “Universities serve as the lighthouse of human areas of cooperation on education and planning.” Qiu noted. civilization. We share a common objective, scientific research. In this way, the meeting “As we face unprecedented global challenges, which is to make the world a better place. At echoed sentiments expressed at the G20 it is time to reflect on what makes a university “Drawing on traditional strengths in academic this critical moment, universities should play Extraordinary Leaders' Summit on COVID-19 great. Universities should proactively respond research and innovation, universities play an an essential role in promoting confidence, on March 26, where President Xi Jinping to challenges and shoulder responsibilities to essential role in epidemic-prevention efforts. trust and unity among the whole world. called on the international community to demonstrate their commitment to society,” Universities can demonstrate the aspiration of Together, stronger.” Qiu concluded. strengthen confidence, act with unity and said President Qiu. He noted that the essence education by taking on social responsibilities” work together in a collective response against of education is to empower the lives of he added, noting that Tsinghua swiftly During the meeting, the following university COVID-19. During the meeting, presidents, students, with the prerequisite of ensuring initiated COVID-19 research projects after the leaders shared their respective anti-epidemic vice-presidents and representatives from their health and well-being. Universities outbreak and that substantial progress has efforts and experience in managing online the 15 universities shared their actions, should take the safety and health of students, been made in basic medical research, vaccine education and scientific research, and experience and views on topics such as the faculty and staff as their top priority. research, and fast testing kits, as well as in prevention and control work: Bundhit Eua- roles universities can play in education and intelligent epidemic prevention systems and arporn, President, Chulalongkorn University; To curb the spread of the disease, Tsinghua scientific research during the pandemic. equipment. Wei Shyy, President, the Hong Kong University

21 22 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT distinguished institutions represented in this of Waseda University, and Andrew Martin, new partnership between Tsinghua and dialogue,” President Qiu said. Chancellor of Washington University in St. universities in Mongolia which covers the Louis also delivered opening remarks. sharing of online educational resources and Special Peter Salovey, President of Yale University, technical assistance, with broad objectives thanked Tsinghua University for taking the In the featured case study-sharing session, that support pedagogical adaptation and Dialogue lead in bringing all the participants together Borhene Chakroun, UNESCO Director of capacity development. for such an important and timely discussion Division for Policies and Lifelong Learning on educational continuity during this crisis in Systems; Brian Schmidt, Vice-chancellor of The event summary and closing remarks were Special Dialogue: Online Education in the his opening remarks. The Australian National University; Alberto delivered by Edward Crawley, Ford Professor COVID-19 Response and Beyond Barbieri, Rector of the University of Buenos of Engineering of MIT, Founding Interim “We're encouraged by facts and expertise. Aires; Ennio Vivaldi, Rector of the University Provost of Tsinghua Southeast Asia Centre; And yet we are humbled by the questions Assistant Director General Giannini and of Chile; Sir Steve Smith, Vice Chancellor of and Getachew Engida, Co-President of China- that remain unanswered. The pandemic has UNESCO colleagues for co-organizing this the University of Exeter; Sung-Chul Shin, Africa Leadership Development Institute shown the world how much we need ideas Special Dialogue, and commended UNESCO President of KAIST; Datuk Abdul Rahim (CALDI), Tsinghua University, Former Deputy and solutions. And it has reminded me and for its work in supporting inclusive distance Hashim, Vice-Chancellor of the University of DG, UNESCO. They evaluated this online many of us why their research and scholarship learning, and in mobilizing countries to Malaya; Stephen Kiama, Vice Chancellor of meeting and put forward suggestions for the being conducted on college and University reinforce cooperation in the face of COVID-19. the University of Nairobi; and Andrey Rudskoi, next steps going forward. campuses in China and the United States and Rector of the Peter the Great St. Petersburg About 30 panelists including university “We share a common belief that education other nations throughout the world are so Polytechnic University, shared their presidents, vice presidents and professors should not be interrupted under any vital to society,” he said. experiences, featured cases and observations circumstances. It is our compelling obligation from 21 universities in 15 countries, as well Stephen Toope, Vice Chancellor of the from their respective regions and working to ensure the continuation of education. as UNESCO international higher education University of Cambridge expressed his experience respectively. According to our practice at Tsinghua over experts and representatives, attended the appreciation to Tsinghua and UNESCO for the past three months, we concluded that we Following the case study-sharing, a panel Special Dialogue. Education policy advisors initiating the dialogue and sharing best must bear in mind three key words in order discussion with the theme of “Online and executors, faculty, students and relevant practices. “We will only learn enough to make to achieve effective implementation of online Education: Practice, Research, Cooperation education stakeholders also joined this event progress on the immense challenges of education: access, quality and equity,” said and Partnerships” was held. Topics including online. The event was moderated by Yang On April 24th, Beijing time, a Special Dialogue computers and more or less 40% don’t have online education through collaboration at a President Qiu. online training programs on digital policies Bin, Vice President and Provost of Tsinghua access to the internet at all; the readiness was held online. Co-convened by Tsinghua global level,” he said. and education, education policies and University and Marielza Oliveira, Director of University and UNESCO, the Special Dialogue of teachers and faculty; and the ethical President Qiu announced the official Alice Gast, President of Imperial College planning, and online education partnerships, the UNESCO Beijing Cluster Office. explored the extraordinary challenges to challenge, how online contest quality is release of an interim report by Tsinghua’s London; Ferruccio Resta, Rector of Politecnico as well as the resilience, reform-evaluation ensure higher learning continuity during the assured. Institute of Education on the theme of di Milano; Meric Gertler, President of the and implications of online education were COVID-19 pandemic. Integrity, Resilience and Reform: Evaluation In the remarks, Giannini also called for global University of Toronto; Aiji Tanaka, President discussed. The session also showcased a and implications of Tsinghua University’s Themed “Online Education in the COVID-19 collaboration during this pandemic, “Global emergency online education in his remarks. Response and Beyond”, the dialogue shared cooperation is the only answer to this crisis, “The year of 2020 may well mark a historical university case studies, best practice, and and especially to support countries that don't watershed of human society. The year of 2020 experience in online education. have the capacity to know how or have the also witnesses the rise of online education at resources to deploy distance learning,” she an unprecedented scale. It is foreseeable that Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director- emphasized. General for Education, thanked Tsinghua the form of campus-based education will be University for initiating this Special Dialogue “The more we discover, the more we can profoundly reshaped after the pandemic,” he in her welcoming remarks. “Tsinghua really join forces and work together. I hope noted. University was one of the first in the world to and am sure that this discussion will pave “Universities are the lighthouse of human move all courses online, so it’s fitting that you the way for a new cooperation between civilization. Facing such a grave challenge that are leading this conversation today. Learning universities to ensure that the world concerns the future of mankind, universities never stops, and learning does not stop and counts for this crisis. more prepared and must shoulder our due responsibilities. must not stop,” she said. more committed to shaping a secure and While the end of the pandemic remains out sustainable common destiny,” said Giannini. She mentioned three challenges facing of sight, it is our unwavering belief that we online education in her remarks. The students In his welcoming remarks, President Qiu will overcome it eventually. Tsinghua values affected by the closures don’t have access to extended his thanks and appreciation to the partnerships with UNESCO and the

23 24 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

Tsinghua hosts “Now that the COVID-19 pandemic seems establishment of the Vanke School of Public to be putting the world politics into an Health, which is dedicated to reinforcing WPF special video conference undesired trajectory, we think it is our the nation’s public health emergency responsibility to convene this special management systems and safeguarding conference, provide a platform for leading global public health security, and the The World Peace Forum (WPF) special video different parts of the world to discuss ways international strategists to freely interact, and launching of a special dialogue with the conference on “Post-Pandemic Era: China and to deal with major security challenges the try to find effective prescriptions to problems theme of “Online Education in the COVID-19 the World” opened on June 16th. international community faces in the post- threatening world peace,” he said. Response and Beyond” in collaboration with pandemic era. UNESCO. Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong, who Pointing out the International Monetary is also Chairman of the forum, delivered the “In the face of this major common threat to Fund (IMF)’s prediction of the likelihood of “In the upcoming four panels, we look welcoming remarks at the opening session of humanity, unfortunately and unexpectedly, the worst economic downturn since the forward to distinguished speakers’ invaluable the two-day virtual conference of the forum, the international community has been Great Depression due to the pandemic, he ideas on how to generate a favorable which is China’s first non-governmental high- extremely slow to form a unified front and emphasized the importance of coordinated environment and a common resolve to tackle level forum on international security initiated make coordinated and effective responses. international efforts to overcome the current the challenges,” he added. by Tsinghua University in 2012. On the contrary, world politics is witnessing crisis. Following Qu’s remarks, the first day of the intensified polarization, irrationality, “Tsinghua is convinced that universities conference saw two panel discussions. While In his speech, President Qiu said the World uncertainty, and instability,” he said. Peace Forum, like many other international should be committed to social responsibility. Li Li, Deputy Secretary-General of the World forums, had to be held online this year due As an international platform on security We also attach great significance to Peace Forum moderated the first panel on to the ongoing pandemic, as he thanked issues, the World Peace Forum, he said, would international cooperation,” he said while the topic “World Order after the COVID-19 leading academics, influential political leaders like to make its own contribution by offering elaborating some of the recent efforts made Crisis,” four panelists--Graham Allison, Douglas and former top diplomats, among others, a platform “to sit down and talk to each other” by the university to promote international Dillon Professor of Harvard University, attending the forum’s online gathering from and “to do something to prevent disorder.” cooperation and exchanges including the USA, Alexander A. Dynkin, President of the neither a well-formed understanding nor a The second panel discussion on “Artificial Primakov Institute of World Economy and clear view of a desirable future world order. Intelligence in the Post- Pandemic Era” was International Relations, Russia, Volker Perthes, “Maybe the post-COVID world would have moderated by Liang Zheng, Vice President of CEO and Director, Stiftung Wissenschaft und some features of 'no poles', as scholar Richard the Institute for AI International Governance, Politik, German Institute for International and Haas pointed out quite long ago,” he added. Tsinghua University, with Xue Lan, Dean of Security Affairs, Germany, and Yan Xuetong, Schwarzman College of Tsinghua, Professor Dean of the Institute of International Prof. Perthes from Germany said that anti- Stuart Russel of Computer Science and Relations, Tsinghua University--shared their globalist sentiments which were already Smith-Zadeh Professor in Engineering, thoughts. getting popular in some parts of the University of California, Berkeley, USA, Zhang world will further gain ground in the post- Yaqin, Chair Professor of AI Science, Dean of Prof. Allison, who is also the author of the pandemic world, leading to deglobalization Institute for AI Industry Research, Tsinghua book “Destined for War: Can America and and more fragmentation of the international University, Wendell Wallach, Consultant of China Escape Thucydides’ Trap?” thinks rivalry security order. the Hastings Center, Chair of the Technology between great powers like China and U.S will and Ethics Studies, Interdisciplinary Center continue even after the pandemic but at the Prof. Yan of Tsinghua believed that there for Bioethics, Yale University, USA, and Max same time cooperation will also continue as will be no global leadership in the coming Tegmark, Professor at MIT and President of “coronavirus provides a vivid reminder that decade. According to him, the coming world the Future of Life Institute, USA as the five each nation, China, the U.S. and every other order will be an “order of bad faith” mainly panelists. The panelists shared the use of nation, faces external threats it can't defeat because of the lack of global leadership. AI in the ongoing COVID-19 responses in itself by acting alone.” “However, I am still optimistic about the future,” he said. different countries and discussed how AI Prof. Dynkin from Russia argued that the will be at forefront of the fight against future leading centers of power currently have global health crises.

25 26 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT Joint symposium on Fighting COVID-19 COVID-19 Joint symposium on COVID-19 Fightback and the Future “New Normal” with Imperial Fighting COVID-19: We are all together College London

As the world battles hard against COVID-19, challenge facing all countries, and COVID-19 A joint symposium on “COVID-19 Fightback Chen Xu, giving a welcome speech, said that Tsinghua University and China Daily jointly is the common enemy of all mankind. At and the Future ‘New Normal’” organized by universities around the world have a common organized a new edition of Vision China, this critical moment, it is more urgent than Tsinghua University and Imperial College commitment to building educational inviting speakers from home and abroad ever to recognize that ‘we are all together’, its social and international engagement. London was held virtually on June 10th with resilience as well as contributing to the fight to share their views and stories with a including the critical role that universities Tsinghua has also communicated with experts calling for strengthening international against global health emergencies. global audience about fighting the novel play around the world,” Chen Xu noted. global partners to make active contributions solidarity and cooperation in scientific “I have confidence that our vibrant in fighting the pandemic. studies among universities to overcome the coronavirus. partnership will not only benefit the two Chen Xu said that since the outbreak of pandemic and prevent possible future global universities, but also provide critical solutions The event, with the theme "Fighting COVID-19, Tsinghua University has been Zhou Shuchun, publisher and editor-in-chief health emergencies. for the world at large,” she said. COVID-19: We are all together", was closely monitoring the health of all students, of China Daily, also said that the whole world The event, which brought public health broadcast online on March 31st, Beijing faculty and staff. Strict prevention and control is now fighting against a common enemy - Reaffirming Tsinghua’s commitment to safeguard experts from the World Health Organization time. It was aimed at sharing experiences measures have been implemented across COVID-19."The fast-spreading pandemic has global public health security and improve human (WHO), Tsinghua University and Imperial and consolidating strength, after last week's the campus, in line with the government’s put all people in the same boat," Zhou said health, she said Tsinghua has set up a research College London together, is the latest Extraordinary G20 Leaders' Summit on response plan. while delivering his opening speech. "This is fund and established the Vanke School of Public attempt by Tsinghua University to share COVID-19 sent a message of solidarity and a time for unity and solidarity. This is a time Health to encourage and support the university On February 17th, the spring semester knowledge and experience, and promote coordination in confronting the pandemic. for reason and responsibility." faculty to initiate joint research with international global efforts in the fight against COVID-19, Praising China’s successful handling of the commenced online, on time and on partners on COVID-19. Chen Xu, Chairperson of Tsinghua University schedule; and more than 3,900 courses Zhang Ruiru, a 20-year-old student at which has affected more than 200 countries COVID-19 epidemic and timely assistance Council, delivered an address at the opening. were launched. Tsinghua has shouldered Tsinghua University, went back to her home around the world. She also shared recent significant scientific to the countries affected by the epidemic, and technological achievements made Chan said that the pandemic has reaffirmed “Public health security is a common additional responsibilities by expanding city of Wuhan for the traditional Chinese Delivering a welcome speech at the opening by Tsinghua faculty and students to fight the values of global solidarity, trust, unity and New Year holiday. Both of her parents were session of the symposium, Alice Gast, President of against COVID-19. “Tsinghua has contributed cooperation in the face of a shared common later diagnosed with the infection, and have Imperial College London stressed the importance to structural studies of coronavirus- health threat. recovered. Zhang said the fight against of scientific collaboration and cooperation receptor interactions, the development of the outbreak has made her fully realize the among universities and other international Another keynote speaker, David Nabarro, a nucleic acid detection kit, the creation of strong unity of the Chinese people. institutions around the world to overcome the WHO special envoy on COVID-19 and Co- an intelligence-assisted diagnosis system pandemic and other global challenges. Director of the Institute of Global Health “Chinese people have stood as one to fight and the efficient isolation of antibodies Innovation at Imperial College London, said the virus. Medical workers from all over the “We must ensure that this pandemic against the coronavirus. In addition, we have that unity, solidarity and cooperation shown country descended on Wuhan to help, and strengthens the links between Chinese and provided open access to Tsinghua’s drug by universities around the world in the fight resources were sent into the city from all UK science, and institutions such as ours. The discovery resources and platforms for global against the coronavirus was praiseworthy. over China,” she said. coronavirus operates across borders, and so researchers,” she said. do our efforts to inhibit and defeat it,” she said. “I have never seen the level of cooperation Margaret Chan, the Inaugural Dean of Vanke among scientists and among those who She announced that Imperial College London School of Public Health Tsinghua, and Honorary support science that we're seeing right now. will be welcoming applications for the Director-General of the WHO, was one of the This is so totally new. Let's take advantage Tsinghua-Imperial Research and Innovation two keynote speakers of the symposium. of this wonderful collaboration between Seed Fund at the beginning of the next She said that the international community Imperial College and Tsinghua to take that academic year. The fund promotes and should continue to uphold the concept of a degree of engagement and working together supports early-stage collaboration among community of a shared future for mankind, for the public good to a new level because academics, researchers and students at further strengthen cooperation under the we have got to learn to get public health Tsinghua and Imperial. guidance and coordination of the WHO, work right,” he said. together to overcome the current crisis and Chairperson of Tsinghua University Council build a global community of health for all.

27 28 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT UN SDSN’s webinar

President Qiu calls for further cooperation by universities with UN to achieve SDGs at UN SDSN’s webinar

The opening session was followed by three Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong more resilient; future learning must be more Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Colombia University, more ambitious and decisive actions to help several panel discussions. Tsinghua's Vice panel discussions on the following topics: urged universities around the world to student-driven; future teaching must be who is also director of the SDSN, praised accelerate the progress on the SDGs even as the President and Provost Yang Bin delivered his COVID-19 Vaccine Development, Diagnostic further strengthen cooperation with smarter; and future education must be more Tsinghua's quick response in organizing world grapples with the pandemic. remarks on the topic "Universities and Climate Tools Development, and Post-COVID-19 the United Nations (UN) to achieve the inclusive. online classes to support other universities Change". Peter Wells, Chief of Higher Education at economics. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and during the pandemic, and expressed his address the most urgent global challenges He said Tsinghua University has UNESCO, said that the pandemic has offered "We believe that in the face of the common Zhang Linqi, Chair of Global Health and appreciation of President Qiu for stressing demonstrated its commitment to work with an opportunity to refine methodologies for challenge of climate change, colleges and Infectious Diseases Center, School of such as climate change. the need for more inclusive and smarter UN agencies and other global partners to online teaching and learning, pedagogies and universities in the world have a shared Medicine, Tsinghua University and Nilay universities in the future. President Qiu delivered his remarks at the effectively respond to the UN's global call assessments, and enabled higher education responsibility to play a leading role in terms of Shah, Head of the Department of Chemical webinar for presidents of global universities for a decade of action to realize the SDGs, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres institutions to achieve the SDGs, in particular the promoting education and research on climate Engineering, Imperial College London, talked with the UN Secretary-General entitled by establishing research entities like the addressed the opening session of the two- SDG in terms of widening access to quality higher for the future," Yang said. about vaccine development in China and "University Sector Support to UN Secretary- Institute for Sustainable Development Goals day webinar via a video message. He said education delivery for everybody. the UK, while Cheng Jing, CAE Member He said the Global Alliance of Universities on General's Call for a Decade of Action on the and launching a dual master's program for he was grateful to see universities around and Professor, School of Medicine, Tsinghua Dr. Rajiv Shah, President, Rockefeller Foundation; Climate established at Tsinghua encouraged SDGs" on July 9. SDGs in collaboration with the University of the world remain strongly committed to the University and Pantelis Georgios, Reader Lee C. Bollinger, President and Seth Low Professor research on climate change solutions that Geneva. SDGs despite facing colossal logistic and in Biomedical Electronics, Department The UN Sustainable Development Solutions of the University, Columbia University; Jeffrey address global sustainable development other challenges. of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Network (SDSN), a global network of over In his remarks, President Qiu also highlighted Cheah, Foundation Chancellor, Sunway University goals and reduce impacts on the world's Imperial College shed light on diagnostics 1,000 universities supporting the SDGs, held Tsinghua's role in addressing the most He said that the need to achieve the SDGs also delivered the opening remarks at the most vulnerable populations. "The alliance tools development. Ju Jiandong, Unigroup the two-day online seminar to discuss the urgent challenges around the world, have become more urgent than ever in the webinar. Joanna Newman, Secretary General, has launched a multilateral research Chair Professor at PBC School of Finance, role of universities in mainstreaming the such as climate change. "In May 2019, the face of the COVID-19 pandemic as it has not Association of Commonwealth Universities; project on Carbon Neutral Future, around Tsinghua University and David Miles, Professor SGDs into university curricula and operations, Global Alliance of Universities on Climate only caused a great suffering but also laid Hilligje van't Land, Secretary General, IAU; Shinobu technology, policy and investment. We are of Financial Economics, Business School, conducting SDGs research and facilitating was jointly established by 12 universities bare the world's inequalities and fragilities. Yume Yamaguchi, Director, UNU-IAS; Peter Lennie, planning a number of academic meetings Imperial discussed post-COVID-19 economics. evidence-based stakeholder dialogues on from six continents at Tsinghua University. "Together we can make multilateralism Executive Director, Worldwide University Network; and are working to produce the first alliance Following the panel discussions, Yang Bin, the implementation of SDGs. The alliance aims to promote university more effective and make our world more Wayne Frederick, President, Howard University; academic report before COP 26," he added. Vice President and Provost of Tsinghua leadership and the role of the university in sustainable, equitable, climate-friendly and Raghunath A. Mashelkar, President, Jio Institute; "Only by building closer and stronger University and Maggie Dallman, Vice President climate change mitigation," he added. peaceful," he said. Makoto Gonokami, President of the University partnerships with UN agencies can (International) of Imperial College London, of Tokyo and Chair of the International Alliance universities contribute to the realization of delivered concluding remarks. He said Tsinghua continued to promote "Over the past five years, government after of Research Universities (IARU); addressed at SDGs. Only by joining hands can we jointly the quality and inclusiveness of education government have expressed a genuine the session themed as "The Future of Higher Yang Bin expressed the hope to see achieve this 'decade of action' – and in so during the pandemic by utilizing innovative commitment to the SDGs but very often Education in the Post-COVID World". Xue Lan, collaboration between Tsinghua University doing, inspire a brighter future for all," he said technologies and setting up online "clone they lack the know-how and the capacity to Dean of Schwarzman College at Tsinghua and Imperial College London in COVID-19 while addressing the first panel discussion classes" to support the universities in govern and implement policies that deliver University, and Co-Chair of the Leadership Council vaccine manufacturing, while Maggie of the webinar on the topic "The Future of the regions hardest hit by the pandemic, inclusive and sustainable economies. This is of the UN Sustainable Development Solution Dallman said that having a strong relationship Higher Education in the Post-COVID World". including Huazhong University of Science where universities can play a key role," UN Network (UNSDSN), also attended the webinar. with Tsinghua has put her institution in a very and Technology, Wuhan University and other Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed He underscored that future universities strong position to help the world population universities. said, urging universities to come up with The second day of the webinar on Friday featured come through this crisis. must be more open, more integrative and

29 30 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

the closing ceremony, which was held truly global citizens, he expressed the hope which featured lectures, keynote speeches Tsinghua Global Summer virtually and broadcast live on various media that the GSS experience would lead all the and group discussions on nine different platforms on Tuesday evening. participating young students on to future themes with reference to the post-pandemic School (GSS) 2020 learning and connections with China in the world, virtual cultural events as well as virtual He congratulated and thanked all the future. tours of Tsinghua University History Museum participants on behalf of Tsinghua for taking and Campus, Lenovo and Huawei. All the part in the GSS 2020 online and exploring “I hope that through GSS 2020 you have keynote speeches delivered at the GSS 2020 the post-pandemic world through various been challenged and inspired: challenged were open to the public. Tsinghua held Global disciplines including economics, education, to deepen and expand your thinking, and Summer School (GSS) 2020 society, artificial intelligence, climate change inspired to dream big and learn more about Results of a survey about the program were and leadership. China,” he added. also shared by John Paul, the moderator, sucessfully at the ceremony. The majority of the He said, as Tsinghua’s first ever virtual He also urged all the GSS 2020 participants participating students surveyed spoke highly summer school, the GSS 2020 was able to explore future study or research of the program. They said the program met Tsinghua University held Global Summer around the world, your concerted efforts Tsinghua’s Academy of Arts and Design. to break through barriers of learning, opportunities at Tsinghua through its diverse their expectations and was beneficial for School (GSS) 2020 for nine days in July. Over to address global challenges represent the participation and communication to reach English-taught masters’ programs, exchange Professor Xue Lan, Dean of Schwarzman their learning, according to the survey. 1,000 young talents from 154 universities hope of humanity. Your achievements and an even greater audience. “Like the year student programs or visiting scholar College at Tsinghua and Faculty Chair across 79 different countries and regions leadership will define our future, and will 2020, this year’s summer school has also positions. Prior to the closing ceremony, Prof. Jiang of GSS 2020, made an opening keynote attended the first-of-its-kind virtual summer contribute to humanity through better been extraordinary, “he said. Xiaojuan, who is Dean of the School of Public Vice President Yang thanked all the summer school launched by Tsinghua, and undertook preparation for the next crisis,” he added. presentation on “China’s Innovation System - Policy and Management, Tsinghua University, school speakers and academic support courses taught by distinguished scholars Myth and Reality.” Vice President Yang pointed out five delivered a closing keynote presentation President Qiu announced that Tsinghua key terms—social responsibility, global, departments and schools for their enriching and practitioners from China and abroad on During his special lecture, Professor Xue, on “Globalization and its Governance in the would hold the GSS every year from this year interdisciplinary, humility and community— content as well as the staff of the Tsinghua the theme “Toward a Post-Pandemic World”. whose teaching and research interests Digital Age.” onwards. to highlight the significance of the summer Office of International Affairs, XuetangX and include STI policy, crisis management, and Tsinghua President Qiu Yong welcomed school. the Information and Technology Center for She talked about three aspects of the The online summer school offers courses the inaugural class of the Tsinghua Global global governance, reviewed the evolution their efforts behind the scenes to make the globalization—products, enterprises and on nine topics with reference to the post- Summer School (GSS) 2020 at the opening of China’s innovation system, assessed the “To put these five terms together, GSS summer school possible. economies; digital globalization; and the pandemic world, and is taught by top- ceremony, which was livestreamed world- progress and regrets in China’s innovation aspires to foster an interdisciplinary-focused governance concept and value of digital notch Chinese and international professors, Altogether 17 academic institutions wide on various social media platforms. system, and reflected on the way forward. global community dedicated to making globalization. as well as leading experts from renowned meaningful contributions to society,” he of Tsinghua, including eleven schools, According to him, coordinated opening-up “Today, by launching its Global Summer international companies. added. departments and institutions, four overseas “In this era, no one has such authority to School, Tsinghua extends its fundamental and reform have served as two wheels for STI bases and two international higher make universal rules for the globe. We must The nine topics are: Innovative Thinking commitment - educating and cultivating development in China. “Those reforms and Stating that understanding China was education alliances initiated by the university cooperate,” she said. Post-Pandemic; Living Together Sustainably: talents - to each and every participant openness enabled China’s innovation system imperative for aspiring leaders to become were involved in this year’s summer school, Learning to Transform Oneself and Society; According to her, inclusiveness, respect, here,” President Qiu said, delivering his to flourish,” he said, adding that China has Economy Post-Pandemic; Sustainable maximizing human interest, human opening remarks. “This program exemplifies always enjoyed strong leadership support Development Post-Pandemic; Artificial prosperity, sustainability and harmony Tsinghua’s spirit of ‘Actions speak louder than for STI. Intelligence Application and Governance; should be the values for governance in the words’”. Society Post-Pandemic; Lifelong Learning As a result, China’s investment in research digital age. Stating that the pandemic has brought the and Development; Future‐oriented and development (R&D) has been growing “In the digital era, physical, cultural and world to a standstill, causing widespread leadership; and New Trend of Globalization steadily, with industrial R&D becoming a intellectual ties between nations and disruption and uncertainty to the economy and Global Governance. major part, he said. Professor Xue also said individuals are becoming closer and deeper. and society, he expressed his hope that the continued increase of foreign R&D President Qiu’s speech was followed by a We are indeed in the age of a digital planet. the summer school would inspire the centers in China has also contributed to series of videos that showcased Tsinghua’s Therefore, digital governance must be young students to rethink and reimagine China’s innovation system “in a very dramatic development, internalization and exciting global,” she added. the global community, and to define our way ”. campus atmosphere during the opening responsibilities in a post-pandemic world. ceremony, including the music video Vice President and Provost of Tsinghua “As the young generation of students from featuring Mojia, a robot band developed by University Yang Bin delivered remarks at

31 32 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

Susan McCahan, Vice-Provost of Academic proposed that “the human capital involved Times Higher Education (THE) Programs at the University of Toronto, said the in online education” was no different from in- blending of the virtual with the real classroom person teaching and required specialist IT World Academic Summit had the potential to reduce inequity, but also infrastructures well, “there are no immediate may promote it since some students had cost savings. challenges in internet access and other ways Tsinghua University proposes the Pandemic of engagement. She was concerned about The representatives also discussed other the identity of the university going forward in issues, including online course tuition, as a new Dawn for Higher Education at THE this kind of blended model. universities’ new relationship with society, and universities’ opportunities and responsibilities World Academic Summit Richard Miles, Vice-Provost of Academic in the future. Performance and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Education, Enterprise and Engagement at the The THE World Academic Summit brought University of Sydney, was concerned whether together pre-eminent global thought leaders On September 1st and 2nd, the Times Higher noted that these challenges, however, more profound changes in higher education. the blended model could cultivate students’ across higher education, research, industry, Education (THE) World Academic Summit was represented renewal of hope. He believed By working together, renewal and hope will core human skills such as problem-solving, and government to share best practices and held online. Tsinghua University discussed that as a result of the changes made in the see us through this unprecedented challenge,” thinking critically, and working productively, innovation in world-class universities and and shared the prospects for post-pandemic face of these challenges, the university’s role Qiu said. which relied on quite a lot of face-to-face research. It was also an excellent opportunity higher education with leading thinkers from in contributing to solving global challenges to showcase Tsinghua and other Chinese In a subsequent panel discussion, Tsinghua's interaction. He said it was essential that all over the world. would become more prominent. universities’ responses to the pandemic Vice President and Provost Yang Bin shared universities kept developing tools to provide and engage in an open discussion on post- Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong President Qiu argued that, due to the examples that support the view that 2020 students from diverse backgrounds. pandemic higher education to the world. delivered the remarks entitled “Renewal pandemic, there were many recent is a “new dawn” for higher education. Yang Clay Shirky, Vice-Provost for Educational and Hope: Post-pandemic Trends in Higher transformations to higher education. In the believed that global higher education was Technologies at New York University Education” at the summit. He said 2020 was post-pandemic era, the university will be a big step closer to the realization of "hybrid a watershed moment in history and a “new more open and integrative, more student- education" which transcended merely dawn” for higher education. driven, smarter and more inclusive. World- "teaching" and "learning." class universities will lead with vigor. During the speech, President Qiu elaborated Based on Tsinghua’s practical experience, on the challenges that have emerged for “The pandemic will be the catalyst for even Yang Bin proposed that there were many higher education institution in 2020. He emerging areas of improvement and optimism, particularly changes in the higher education landscape. He said that the development of online education modalities created more learner-oriented approaches, brought greater accessibility to education, and increased openness and transparency to higher education processes and outcomes.

“Although the pandemic has caused physical separation, it has led to a deeper appreciation of society’s indivisibility,” Yang said while elaborating some of the recent efforts made by universities around the world shouldering additional social responsibilities and engaging in front-line work to combat the pandemic. Yang also stressed that future education must achieve greater levels of inclusion and quality.

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The Tsinghua Southeast “Healthy China” seminar Asia Cloud Forum Tsinghua’s Vanke School of Public Health Forum looks to boost regional cooperation, holds seminar to share COVID-19 prevention sustainable development and control experiences

The Tsinghua Southeast Asia Cloud Forum innovation ecosystems, and realizing SDGs. Tsinghua University’s newly established Vanke Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong, was launched on Sept 23rd to inspire School of Public Health held a seminar on speaking at the seminar, expressed his exchanges among international leaders Indonesian President Joko Widodo sent a September 25th to exchange experiences in gratitude to the lecturers and coordinators of from various sectors that could lead to the congratulatory letter to the forum expressing the prevention and control of the COVID-19 the program for organizing the “Healthy China” attainment of sustainable development appreciation of Tsinghua SEA’s achievements pandemic in China, as well as discuss Seminar. President Qiu said although the goals (SDGs) and push forward regional in human capital development, educational strategies and measures for the normalized epidemic was a testing time for the university, development and cooperation. The opening exchange and cross-sector dialogue. He epidemic prevention and control. the coordinated efforts by the leaders from ceremony was hosted by Tsinghua Vice believes that the center will continue to play all levels enabled it to get through the President and Provost Yang Bin. a catalytic role in bridging Indonesia, China, The “Healthy China” seminar was held under pandemic. According to him, its bedrock of Southeast Asia and other areas. the title “Capacity Enhancement Training innovation had allowed Tsinghua University Co-sponsored by Tsinghua University innovative development and cooperation Program – Theory and Practice of Prevention She thanked the people and the Chinese Cooperation is more needed than ever to lead in its efforts for the integrated online and the Indonesian United in Diversity and strive for a better world, a community and Control of the COVID-19 Pandemic.” government for their efforts to win the fight amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said Luhut and offline education during the epidemic. (UID) Foundation, the forum has gathered with a shared future for mankind. against the COVID-19. Although she was in Pandjaitan, Coordinating Minister for Maritime During the seminar held both online and attendees from the public and private sectors “It will be the 110th anniversary of Tsinghua Hong Kong during the epidemic, she keenly Ning Jizhe, Vice Chairman of the National Affairs and Investment. offline, ten distinguished officials and experts and civil society, mainly from China, Indonesia University in 2021. Tsinghua University watched the developments that took place in Development and Reform Commission from relevant fields including China’s National and other Southeast Asian countries. will continue its efforts for growth and the mainland with regard to the prevention (NDRC), was present and expressed his UID Foundation President Tuti Hadiputranto Health Commission shared their experiences development. It is expected that the and control of the pandemic, and was proud At the opening ceremony, Tsinghua President congratulations. He was commissioned said in her welcome speech that the forum in the prevention and control of the university and its students will continue to to see the mainland heading in a positive Qiu Yong pointed out in his speech that by He Lifeng, Vice Chairperson of the 13th is a symbol of the cooperation and mutual COVID-19 Pandemic over the past half year, hold on to its spirit of perseverance through direction in its fight against the COVID-19. Indonesia is the largest economy in the National Committee of the Chinese People's trust between the two countries, and called and exchanged opinions on how to continue for unity and open attitudes to seek wider adversity to strive for more advancement of Association of Southeast Asian Nations Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and to control the pandemic in the future. “I appreciate the chance to continue to cooperation. the university and the nation,” said President (ASEAN) and where the 21st Century Maritime Chairman of the NDRC. contribute to the public health cause in Ma Xiaowei, Minister of the National Health Qiu. Silk Road initiative was first proposed. The China,” she said. “This year marks the 70th anniversary of At the following plenary discussions, Commission, highlighted the need to remain university has always deemed Indonesia participants exchanged views on such topics Dr. Margaret Chan, the inaugural Dean of the establishment of diplomatic relations vigilant on the pandemic with increasing Dr. Michael Ryan, Executive Director of the a major partner and has been expanding as the red line for ecological protection, the School and Emeritus Director-General between China and Indonesia. The 70 years people movement and gatherings. He World Health Organization Emergencies educational exchanges and regional paths for peace, and collaboration with the of WHO, expressed her gratitude to the have witnessed international turmoil, but also said wavering efforts at the international Program commented on the spread of the cooperation with it. Tsinghua SEA on sustainable development National Health Commission, lecturers increasing prosperity in the two countries and level could lead to a possible influx of the pandemic in different parts of the world. He and happiness. and participants attending the seminar. According to Qiu, the Tsinghua Southeast closer people-to-people communications,” COVID-19 in the country. He also stressed stressed on the need of coordinated efforts, Asia Center (Tsinghua SEA) has been highly said Ning. on the importance of strong control of the strong leadership, and trust in science at praised for its talent training programs over epidemic in the upcoming autumn and the national and regional levels to keep the Ning pointed out that the NDRC and the last two years in Southeast Asia, mainly winter season. pandemic from escalating. Indonesian governmental departments have in Indonesia. These programs have bettered worked closely on development plans and cultural and academic exchanges between “To continue the best efforts, there is a need regional projects since 2015. China and Southeast Asian countries. to place the lives of people first in order to secure a better life for everyone. The National He also affirmed Tsinghua SEA’s active role President Qiu said he believes the three- Health Commission will continue to work in boosting talent training and educational day online forum will also achieve fruitful closely with Tsinghua University,” he said. cooperation, developing science and results, and urged the attendees to promote

35 36 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

China-US University Presidents’ the boundaries of knowledge, we must sessions in line with its main theme. The “Fostering More Integrative Universities,” from Zhejiang University, and President become more open, more integrative and first session, moderated by Tsinghua was the theme of the second session, Dwight A. McBride from The New School. Online Forum more resilient,” he added. University Vice President and Provost Yang moderated by Kurt Dirks, Vice Chancellor Bin, saw a discussion on “Fostering More of Washington University in St. Louis. This Addressing the session, The New School President Qiu argued that universities have Open Universities,” while President Michael session saw President Xu Ningsheng from President McBride said that his university’s demonstrated their resilience throughout A. McRobbie and Vice President Hannah Fudan University, President David W. Leebron relationship with overseas universities like history as one of the oldest type of Buxbaum from Indiana University, Vice from Rice University, President Zhang Xi from Tsinghua helped it to be responsive and institutions in existence, surviving countless President Chen Jianguo from the Huazhong Jilin University, Chancellor Kent Syverud from resilient during the pandemic, urging the wars, crisis, and challenges of all kinds in University of Science and Technology, Rector Syracuse University, President Cao Xuetao university leaders to find ways to work across human civilization. Yonghua Song from the University of Macau, from Nankai University, and President Ruth political and bureaucratic barriers in the Executive Vice President Safwan M. Masri from V. Watkins from The University of Utah as the interest of the educational mission higher He said that universities once again proved Columbia University, President Lin Zhongqin speakers. education institutions all share. Likewise, their resilience during the COVID-19 from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Zhejiang University President Wu Zhouhui pandemic by adjusting teaching and learning President Luo Jun from Sun Yat-sen University “Despite the current obstacles, we need also said that his university was looking models and playing an irreplaceable role in attended the session. such global collaborations now more than forward to using the form as an opportunity supporting global health by understanding ever,” Rice University President Leebron said, to jointly push university cooperation in the virus and developing vaccines and Indiana University President McRobbie said, delivering a PowerPoint presentation on “The the post-pandemic era to a higher-quality treatment in a short span of time, and “In the internet age, the research enterprise Borderless University.” President Cao Xuetao development state, and contribute greater through these efforts will make humanity has become necessarily global as it is through from Nankai University and President Xu wisdom and strength to the China-US better prepared for future health crises. collaboration of the best and the most stable Ningsheng from Fudan University, in separate friendship and human development. researchers from all countries, contributing speeches, pushed for effective integration, President Qiu stressed that universities of the diverse innovation, approaches and methods connection and collaboration among The forum concluded with a closing remark future must be “more integrative” and should that fundamental breakthroughs are made universities worldwide including China and from Tsinghua Vice President and Provost Yang continue to break through physical borders, and that we are able to address the critical the U.S. Bin. He said, “The pandemic and subsequent disciplinary barriers, technological limitations, challenges of the day.” The Huazhong travel restrictions have added additional layers and identity constraints, and seamlessly The China-US University Presidents’ Online “It is hoped that universities enhance mutual University of Science and Technology Vice The last session addressed the theme of of complexity to educational exchanges and connect with societies, governments, NGOs Forum, jointly organized by Tsinghua learning through communication, and mutual President Chen Jianguo also believed that “Fostering More Resilient Universities.” Wendy mobility, but through proactively searching and industries. University and Yale University, was held on trust through cooperation, and contribute to opening-up is core to university development Wolford, Vice Provost, Cornell University, was for solutions and promoting communication October 13th, bringing together leaders the building of a community of shared future the moderator as well as one of the speakers and mutual understanding, we can turn Likewise, Yale University President Peter and is the source of its vitality and creativity. from 20 leading Chinese and American for mankind.” she added. of the session. Other attendees of the session challenges into opportunities and foster more Salovey said in his opening remarks that the He said, “If the pandemic is a test of universities to explore the development international collaboration, then our lesson were Chancellor Andrew D. Martin from open, integrative and resilient universities Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong, way research universities around the world of higher education and to strengthen from it would be: the more open a university Washington University in St. Louis, President together”. delivering his opening remarks, said that by have responded even though the world is the post-pandemic resilience of university is, the more momentum it will release, Yan Chun-Hua from Lanzhou University, bringing together colleagues from leading experiencing a true global disruption has collaborations and networks. especially when confronting challenges we President Laurie Leshin from Worcester universities in China and the US, Tsinghua demonstrated that open, integrative resilient globally face.” Polytechnic Institute, President Wu Zhaohui Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan delivered hoped to highlight the importance of global research universities are built on cooperation her congratulatory remarks via video during collaborative engagement, and better across national borders. the opening session of the online forum understand the development of universities “Although I am realistic about the difficulties held under the theme “Fostering More Open, more broadly. in the coming months, I am confident Integrative and Resilient Universities.” President Qiu urged all the universities to that the lessons we are learning and the Sun said, higher education represents a space be united in the fight against profound ways we are adapting will help us emerge of advanced collaborative exchange between challenges that humanity faces such as with resilience and strength. This includes China and the US, enhancing the mutual global health emergencies, climate change, a renewed sense of purpose in building understanding and friendship between the economic volatility, social inequality, and sustaining our international collaborations, peoples of China and the US, and promoting ecological degradation. learning from history,” he said. the development of China-US relations. He said universities have been marching “In addition, we can and should leverage our Sun said she was hopeful that universities of towards openness, imparting knowledge response to the COVID-19 crisis to change China and the US will, under the principles and wisdom to all mankind, and promoting how we address other global threats, such as of openness and inclusiveness, leverage their exchange and cooperation in local and global climate change and geopolitical tensions,” he complementarities and broaden the space for communities. added. cooperation in education, research and joint Following the opening ceremony, the programs. “If universities are to fulfill their mission to advance human development and expand forum then featured three keynote speech

37 38 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT Tsinghua University’s Vanke School of Tsinghua co-hosts China-Italy Public Health recently set up its first University Presidents' Forum international advisory board

Tsinghua University’s Vanke School of Public facilitating further improvements, and On 5th November, the eve of the 50th Health recently set up its first international contributing to global health governance," anniversary of the establishment of advisory board to bring great minds together said Chen Xu, Chairperson of Tsinghua diplomatic relations between China and Italy, and seek academic and other scientific and University Council, at the board's meeting Tsinghua University and the Politecnico di technical input for the further development with its Chinese members on 20th October. Milano co-hosted the China - Italy University of the recently-established school as well as Presidents’ Forum. She noted it would also act as a high-end for China’s public health sector. training base for public health pioneers With the theme “Innovation for Shared The board is composed of 34 well-known and talents to promote China's think tank Future”, the online forum brought together experts and scholars from 12 countries construction for the "Healthy China" strategy over twenty leaders from higher education around the world, including deans of world- and its public health management, as well institutions in China and Italy to celebrate famous public health schools, leaders of as strengthen global health governance and the fruitful partnership between the two non-governmental organizations, public international cooperation. countries in the field of science, education, Qiu Yong, President of Tsinghua University, health sector leaders, and outstanding and culture in the past 50 years, as well as to The board is co-chaired by Han Qide, expressed his congratulations on the opening entrepreneurs. explore cooperation in the next half-century Honorary President of the China Association of the board's meeting via video link. that paves the way for a shared future. Tsinghua established the school this April, for Science and Technology and academician the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Alliance of China, that aims to gather He said the advisory board would become a aimed at covering four research fields, namely of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Chen Xu, Chairperson of the Tsinghua diplomatic relations between China and Italy. collaborative strength across the world to highlight in the field of global public health preventative medicine, comprehensive Harvey Feinberg, President of the Gordon and University Council, and Ferruccio Resta, Rector The cooperation in technological innovation make strategic contributions for innovation- education, and hoped the school would give healthcare, big data in healthcare, and public Betty Moore Foundation. of the Politecnico di Milano and President of between the two countries is set to usher in driven development by creating a favorable full play to the role of the board, strive to health policy and management. the Conference of Italian University Rectors, greater latitude. Tsinghua is willing to keep ecosystem, promoting exchanges between At the meeting, Han suggested Tsinghua build a world-class public health school and delivered opening remarks at the forum. working together with our partners from both Chinese and Italian youth, and cultivating make greater contributions to the realization To transform the school into a world- make full use of its excellent scientific and China and Italy to promote global sustainable leading talents. class public health school, the board is academic research results to fight against of a "Healthy China" and a global community “The friendship between China and Italy has development.” expected to give forward-looking guidance the COVID-19 pandemic as well as pursue in- of health for humanity. flourished for thousands of years. The ancient Two keynote speech sessions were organized and suggestions for the school’s scientific depth public health development via closer Silk Road witnessed an enduring cultural Ferruccio Resta reflected on the partnership afterwards. Yang Bin, Vice President and Harvey Feinberg pointed out that the Vanke research, talent nurturing, social services, cooperation with both Chinese and overseas exchange between the two countries. The Politecnico di Milano had with Tsinghua Provost of Tsinghua University, together school should “not only be the leading international cooperation and exchange, and universities. mutual support Chinese and Italians offered in his remarks. “COVID-19 does not only with Giuliano Noci, Vice President of the school of public health for China, but also to help expand its global presence. each other since the outbreak of COVID-19 pose the threat to the world but also offers Politecnico di Milano, moderated the forum. Dr. Margaret Chan, founding Dean of the represent a way of working for public health is a demonstration of the comprehensive an opportunity to transform,” he said, “The school, presided over the meeting and from an academic base that brings together The first one addressed the topic of "The advisory board will play an important partnership we formed,” Chen said in her successful partnership between Tsinghua introduced the board's background and the whole of society and that reaches across “Innovation from a Global Perspective”. Liu role in summarizing and sharing China's remarks. “During the past years, Tsinghua has and the Politecnico di Milano has laid a solid constitution. nations for a more global outlook.” Jiongtian, President of Zhengzhou University, public health governance experience, forged extensive and in-depth cooperation foundation for us to shoulder together the Zuo Wei, Chairman of the University Council with Italian universities in various forms. The responsibility of higher education institutions On October 22, the school held its online of Southeast University, Guido Saracco, Rector China-Italy Design Innovation Hub Tsinghua in navigating the changes, leading the board meeting with international members of the Politecnico di Torino, Duan Xianzhong, established in collaboration with the transformation, and in shaping universities from 11 countries, who shared their opinions the President of Hunan University, Guo Politecnico di Milano has become a flagship that face the future.” on teaching innovation, interdisciplinary Yurong, Chairperson of the University Council program between the two universities and cooperation, lifelong education in the public Following the opening remarks, the forum of the Southern University of Science and the two countries.” health field, young faculty development, witnessed the launch of the China-Italy Year Technology, Sergio Cavalieri, Vice Chancellor incentive mechanisms and research platforms. “The profound changes, instabilities and of Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship, of the Università degli Studi di Bergamo, a year-long program, organized by the Norman Tien, Vice-President and Pro-Vice- They also talked about the development and uncertainties we are facing in the world today China-Italy Design Innovation Hub and the Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong, planning of the school and looked forward to remind us constantly of the importance of Innovation & Entrepreneurship Education Alessandro Paccagnella, Vice Rector of the future cooperation. unity,” Chen pointed out, “This year marks

39 40 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

Tsinghua SPPM hosts 2020 Global Advisory Board Meeting

Università degli Studi di Padova, Bruno Botta, The 2020 Global Advisory Board Meeting multilateralism and strengthen global talent cultivation alliance among Chinese Holdren, the Teresa and John Heinz Professor Zhou Xiaochuan, the Chinese Co-Chair of the Deputy Rector of the Università degli Studi of Tsinghua’s School of Public Policy and governance in a post-COVID era. universities for international organizations, of Environmental Policy at Harvard Kennedy global advisory board, hosted the second di Roma “La Sapienza”, and Li Weiqing, Vice Management (SPPM) was held on 7th and creating additional internship School; Lou Jiwei, a member of the Standing session of the meeting under the theme Likewise, Chairperson of Tsinghua University President of the South China University November. opportunities for students to work at Committee Member and Chairman of the “Global S&T Cooperation and Cultivation of Council Chen Xu delivered her remarks at of Technology, attended the session. The international organizations. Committee of Foreign Affairs of the 13th Public Management Talents”. the opening ceremony. She opined that participants reflected on the benefit their The meeting, held combining both online National Committee of the Chinese People's improving the governance system and Xue Lan, Director of the Academic Committee universities gained from the enduring and offline channels under the theme Wan Gang, Vice Chairman of the 13th National Political Consultative Conference; Paul Romer, the global governance capabilities were of Tsinghua SPPM and Dean of Schwarzman China-Italy friendship and shared innovative “Challenges of Global Governance and Committee of the Chinese People’s Political University Professor in Economics at New York imperative and important as the world was Scholars; Aiji Tanaka, Professor and President measures in boosting scientific research and Cultivation of Public Management Talents,” Consultative Conference, Chairman of the University and Nobel Laureate in Economics; undergoing major changes unseen in a of Waseda University, Japan; Wu Hongbo, development, improving talents nurturing brought together 25 advisory board Central Committee of China Zhi Gong Party, Chen Deming, former Minister of Commerce century. Special Representative of the Chinese outcomes, and enhancing university members from China and abroad to assess and President of the 9th National Committee of China, former Chairman of the Association Government on European Affairs, former management. gaps exposed by the COVID crisis in global of the China Association for Science and for Relations across the Taiwan Straits, and She expressed the hope that the advisory Under-Secretary-General of the United governance, exchange ideas to strengthen Technology, emphasized the urgency to Director of the Institute of Taiwan Studies, board members of the school contribute Nations, President of the China International The second session, with the topic of "Trans- it in the post-COVID world, and set priorities advocate openness and inclusiveness, Tsinghua University; Xie Fuzhan, President insights and ideas toward the construction Public Relations Association, and Co-Director Discipline Innovative Practice," saw a vibrant for the further development of the school promote mutual learning and trust, and bring of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences of public management discipline and of the Institute for Sustainable Development discussion on the importance, urgency, accordingly. vitality to innovation-led cooperation in the (CASS), Secretary of the Leading Party Group, talent training and the reform of global Goals of Tsinghua University (TUSDG); and successful cases of trans-discipline post-epidemic period. and Chairman of the Presidium of the Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister governance. Muhammad Yunus, founder of the Grameen innovation by Li Yanrong, President of Academic Division; Lu Mai, Vice Chairman of Wang Yi attended the opening ceremony of Zhou Xiaochuan, Vice-Chairman, the 12th Bank at Bangladesh and a Nobel Peace Prize Sichuan University, Andrea Prencipe, Rector Chen Xu thanked the advisory board the China Development Research Foundation the meeting, and delivered a speech entitled, National Committee of the Chinese People's Laureate; Robert J. Zimmer, President of the of Luiss University, Fan Di’an, President members for playing an important role in (CDRF) and Secretary-General of the China “Uploading Multilateralism to Tackle Global Political Consultative Conference and University of Chicago; Danny Quah, Professor of the Central Academy of Fine Arts, the development of the Tsinghua SPPM and Development Forum; Sandra O. Archibald, Challenges.” Vice Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia, and Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Alessandra Scagliarini, Vice Rector of Alma Tsinghua University in the past years. Dean Emeritus and Professor at the Evans said allocating substantial efforts in terms Public Policy at the National University Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Lei He said what has happened since the start School of Public Policy and Governance of the Following the opening ceremony, Tsinghua of institutions, market construction, and of Singapore; Frédéric Mion, President of Xinghui, Vice President of Tongji University, of COVID-19 has proved time and again University of Washington; and Yang Bin, Vice President Qiu Yong and three advisory innovative technologies, among others, are Sciences Po; Ma Huateng (Pony), Tencent’s He Lianzhen, Vice President of Zhejiang that humankind is a community with a President and Provost of Tsinghua University. members delivered keynote speeches. necessary to realize China’s goal of carbon University, Liu Lanjuan, Vice President of shared future, multilateralism is the right Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive the Shanghai University of Finance and neutrality by 2060. “We should strengthen Jiang Xiaojuan said that to address the Officer; Ngaire Woods, Dean of the Blavatnik way forward, and that strengthened global For his part, President Qiu, in his video Economics, Giovanni Breglio, Vice Rector of international cooperation on carbon emissions changes and challenges of China’s public and School of Government at Oxford University; governance is an urgent necessity. speech, said that the reform of the global the Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico targeting borderless areas and explore the global governance, Tsinghua SPPM would and Chen Qingtai, former Secretary of the governance system has posed a common II”, and Zeng Chenggang, President of the “Facing this common challenge, whether establishment of relevant international develop public management academic CPC Leadership Group, and the State Council challenge for mankind, and that Tsinghua Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts at Shanghai the international community can choose governance mechanisms,” he added. programs at a higher level, reform the Development Research Center, former Vice- and Tsinghua SPPM were committed to University. solidarity over division, opening-up over existing postgraduate education system Minister of the State Economic and Trade cultivating backbone professionals and The meeting then began its first session isolation, and cooperation over confrontation for professional degrees, and improve Commission, and the founding Dean of the leaders in support of advancing global moderated by John L. Thornton, the annual The forum closed with remarks by Giuliano has put the wisdom, conscience and courage the capability of cultivating academic School of Public Policy and Management, human undertaking. Co-Chair (International) of the global advisory Noci. He shared his expectations for the of humanity to a grave test,” he said, adding, postgraduates. addressed the second session. China-Italy Design Innovation Hub as well board, on the theme of “Challenges of Global China is firmly committed to multilateralism, Ding Zhongli, Vice-Chairman of the Standing as future cooperation between China and Governance & Development and Reform of Yang Bin said the public management Xue Lan elaborated the Tsinghua SPPM’s the path of peaceful development, and Committee of the 13th National People’s Italy. “Located at the two ends of the ancient Higher Education.” education in universities should give full play efforts of global cooperation in the fight the building of a community with a shared Congress and Chairman of the Central Silk Road, China and Italy share a long- to its advantages in terms of student selection, against the COVID-19 pandemic, while other future for mankind. Committee of China Democratic League, The first session saw speeches delivered lasting friendship and should be regarded curriculum settings, cultivation programs speakers highlighted the need to promote suggested the Tsinghua SPPM improve by Jiang Xiaojuan, Dean of Tsinghua SPPM; as one big family. Taking today’s forum as He announced a host of proposals and formulation, creating an open and diverse cooperation among universities to cultivate the talent training system through three Dr. Margaret Chan, Emeritus Director- the starting point, let’s work hand in hand initiatives aimed at tackling global challenges community for talent cultivation and attaching public management talents and boost global ways: fostering collaboration with relevant General of the World Health Organization in contributing towards the post-pandemic and advancing common development, and great importance to the basic science and cooperation in science and technology. ministries and agencies, setting up a and Inaugural Dean of the Vanke School of world,” he said. shared his vision on how to carry forward Public Health of Tsinghua University; John technology education for public management talents in terms of new literacy skills.

41 42 2020 TSINGHUA GLOBAL NEWSLETTER ENGAGEMENT

AUA Presidents Forum held on building resilient Asian universities

The Asian Universities Alliance (AUA) Tsinghua President Qiu Yong, who is also the a “VUCA” world is meant a world with “volatility, Agustin Kusumayati, University Secretary of Science and Technology, exchanged their Presidents Forum 2020, jointly organized President of AUA, delivered opening remarks uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity.” Universitas Indonesia; Chandrika Wijeyaratne, ideas as panelists. The speakers deliberated on by the AUA Executive Presidency 2020- at the opening ceremony of the forum. Vice-Chancellor of the University of Colombo; aspects Asian universities can focus on while 2021, Nazarbayev University (NU), and the “The universities represented at this forum and Sawako Shirahase, Executive Vice reforming their higher education systems to Congratulating NU on its 10th anniversary, AUA Secretariat, was held online on 26th each possess a unique heritage of traditional President of the University of Tokyo, attended become resilient, creative, and innovative, President Qiu thanked NU President and the November. wisdom and a remarkable spirit of innovation,” as the speakers. and turn risks into opportunities. current AUA Executive President Shigeo Katsu President Qiu said. “It is my fervent hope that The forum brought leaders of 15 AUA and his team for hosting AUA’s two important together we can build more resilient models The speakers shared their experiences The forum concluded with the closing member universities together to share their events amid a global pandemic, and thereby of higher education capable of withstanding in running their academic institutions in remarks from NU President Katsu. He knowledge from the experience of coping strengthening the synergy of AUA. and responding to any and all uncertainties the face of the pandemic, and discussed summarized the insightful views shared by the with the COVID-19 crisis for sustainable and challenges which may lay ahead.” lead intellectual scholarship and research possible avenues of cooperation among AUA speakers during the two panel discussions, He said he felt grateful and encouraged that survival and progressive development, and endeavors, and develop future leaders in the members. and concluded the forum as successful, the AUA members came together again, to co-create and develop, through hindsight President Qiu stressed that universities must region. fruitful and informative. He expressed the to have an important conversation on the The second panel was on the topic “Timely and foresight, knowledge for more robust be resilient to thrive in the most challenging hope that AUA members would make the theme of “Knowledge is Power: the Resilience “In these difficult times marked by the Knowledge: Innovation of Asian Universities in and resilient university systems capable of times, holding steadfast to their traditions, best use of the annual presidents forum to of Asian Universities in a VUCA World,” in a COVID-19 pandemic, working together and Turning Risks into Opportunities”, moderated withstanding and responding to continuous, and that the commitment to innovation bring out more collaboration for a robust resolve to navigate Asian higher education building on our strengths, we will continue to by Ilesanmi Adesida, Provost of Nazarbayev and probably more severe, uncertainties and has emboldened universities’ resilience to growth of Asian universities in the future. through the global pandemic of COVID-19. By accomplish great things and we will emerge University. challenges in the future. persevere through this “VUCA” world. stronger and more resilient,” Kastu added. “At Tsinghua University, we have embraced Bundhit Eua-arporn, President of our enduring traditions to gain strength Kastu said that, during its tenure as the Chulalongkorn University; OH Se-Jung, that enables us to briskly recover from the Executive President of the AUA, NU would President of Seoul National University; Ghaleb disruption, and to advance with greater like to strengthen cooperation among Alhadrami Albreiki, Provost and Acting Vice- confidence. In a year that seems as if young researchers and scholars within the Chancellor of United Arab Emirates University; everything we know has changed, our AUA network. He urged leaders of the AUA Mohd. Hamdi Abd. Shukor, Vice-Chancellor unwavering commitment to education, members to reflect on the pressing issues of Universiti Malaya; Nilar Aung, Pro-Rector research, and community service remains they have been facing, and share their of the University of Yangon; and Wei Shyy, resolute,” he added. experience of addressing the challenges of President of the Hong Kong University of the VUCA world. Meanwhile, President Qiu also invited leaders of all the AUA members to join Tsinghua’s The forum featured two panel discussions 110th-anniversary celebration to be held next following the opening ceremony. year in April. The first panel, entitled “Timeless Knowledge: NU President Shigeo Katsu delivered the Traditions of Asian Universities in Persisting welcoming remarks at the forum. through a VUCA World” was moderated by NU President Katsu, while Tan Eng Chye, He pointed out that the AUA had enabled President of the National University of its member universities to collectively Singapore; Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director of respond to the challenges of the VUCA world, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay;

43 44 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER A new mechanism of INNOVATION Ising pairing in Science A research team headed by the Department of Physics reported a new mechanism of Ising pairing in Science Tsinghua researchers invent metal that refuses to sink On March 13th, Associate Prof. Ding Zhang magnetic field at low temperature—has not reported in Science under the title “Type-II and Prof. Qi-Kun Xue of the Department of been verified until now. Ising pairing in few-layer stanene”. Physics, Tsinghua University, Prof. Haiwen Liu Recently, a China-Germany collaborative of Beijing Normal University, and Prof. Jurgen The group of Prof. Qi-Kun Xue has been long team led by Associate Prof. Ding Zhang Smet of the Max Planck Institute, together working on atomically controlled growth and Prof. Qi-Kun Xue of the Department of What if metal was more than just a cold and which means it can float on water under with other researchers, reported their joint and characterization of high-quality thin Physics, Tsinghua University, has overturned rigid material? Although T-1000, the self- specific situations. Based on these results, discovery of very high upper critical magnetic films, making a series of discoveries such as the boundary set by former theories; for repairing, shape-shifting android assassin was two typical structures of GB-eGaIn were fields in few-layer stanene superconductors superconductivity in monolayer lead, high the first time, they observed an enhanced merely a figment of creative imagination, the designed, including the planar structure and and a new type of Ising pairing in Science. temperature superconductivity in monolayer vision is a step closer to becoming reality. In 3D structure. critical magnetic field—a few times the iron selenide and strontium titanite interface, fact, there are metals that behave like water The critical magnetic field of a conventionally expected value—in a highly and Griffiths singularity in a bilayer gallium and do not solidify at room temperature. This material has good phase transition superconductor defines the field that can symmetric material, few-layer stanene. They superconductor. In 2018, Associate Prof. Ding properties with the ability to switch between turn the superconducting state back to the clearly observed divergent behavior of the Zhang—a core member of the Xue group— Benefitting from good electrical conductivity a completely soft state (like water) and a rigid normal state. It is one of the basic properties critical magnetic field as the temperature discovered superconductivity in gray tin and fluidity, these liquid metals attract the metal level under temperature regulation. of superconductivity and an important approaches absolute zero, giving strong thin films—stanene (Nature Physics, 14, 344 likes of various industries such as wearable What’s more, when combined with water- indicator of the superconductor’s potential evidence for Ising superconductivity. On (2018)) and subsequently found that their in- sensors, exoskeleton systems and soft proof package materials, GB-eGaIn can also for applications. Mercury—the very first March 13th (Beijing time), this study was plane upper critical field exceeded the limit robotics. However, the heavy weight of metal realize controllable float and sink behavior. superconductor—has a critical magnetic field stood out as a major concern, for which These results show the potential of diversity of merely tens of milli-Tesla. In recent years, may bring discomfort and extra energy loss shaping and reliable mechanical/electrical people discovered that certain films with the especially when donned on humans. performance of GB-eGaIn, indicating its thickness of a few atomic layers can sustain feasibility for use as temperature-regulated their superconducting state even with a To overcome the challenge, Professor Liu Jing functional components, and may offer magnetic field of tens of Tesla, far exceeding from Tsinghua’s School of Medicine led a team potential use in developing advanced smart expectations. of researchers from Tsinghua and the Chinese underwater devices. Academy of Sciences to propose a concept To explain this phenomenon, researchers of "lightweight liquid metal entity." They proposed an Ising pairing mechanism, developed a liquid metal alloy less dense than in which the paired electrons have their water by combining the material with hollow spin orientations locked because of the glass beads, which could be potentially broken inversion symmetry in the lattice used to make lightweight exoskeletons or of special types of materials. With this transformable robots. framework, people searched in the non- centrosymmetric materials and found a few The research was recently published in more superconductors with very large upper Advanced Functional Materials and selected critical fields. However, some people believed as the inside back cover. The density of the that this effect can be solely attributed to material (called GB-eGaIn) decreased more dimension reduction, challenging the Ising than 70% as compared to the original metal, pairing mechanism. Furthermore, an important prediction of Ising pairing—a divergent critical

45 46 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER INNOVATION

of conventional superconductors—the so- to understand this perplexing phenomenon, corresponding authors of the paper. Dr. called Pauli limit. Associate Prof. Yong Xu of the Department of Joseph Falson of the Max Planck Institute The structural basis for the Physics, Tsinghua University and Prof. Haiwen for Solid State Research, Germany, is the first To further understand the superconducting Liu of Beijing Normal University carried out in- author. The other co-authors include Prof. cell entry of the 2019 novel properties of stanene, the team collaborated depth theoretical analysis. Wenhui Duan, Prof. Ke He, former graduate with Dr. Joseph Falson and Prof. Jurgen Smet student Dr. Yunyi Zang (currently a post-doc coronavirus of the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Through this close collaboration between at the Max Planck Institute for Microstructure Research. They employed in-situ rotation at theory and experiment, the team proposed Physics), graduate student Menghan Liao, Xinquan Wang and Linqi Zhang groups a new type of Ising pairing—type-II an ultralow temperature and high magnetic Kejing Zhu, Chong Wang and Zetao Zhang reveal the structural basis for the cell entry field and systematically measured stanene Ising paring—which resulted from the as well as graduate student Hongchao Liu of samples. They obtained the upper critical combination of spin-orbit coupling and Peking University. This work was supported by of the 2019 novel coronavirus field data covering almost the complete lattice symmetry of the materials. This work the National Natural Science Foundation of temperature range of this superconductor. provides strong evidence for the existence of China, the Ministry of Science and Technology On March 30th 2020, a research paper entitled at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility PhD student Jun Lan, postdoc Jiwan Ge, and They found that the upper critical field not an Ising superconductor and broadens the of China, the State Key Laboratory of Low- “Structure of the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor- (SSRF). The overall ACE2-binding mode of the PhD student Jinfang Yu from the School of Life only exceeded the Pauli limit but also showed scope for searching similar materials. Dimensional Quantum Physics, and the no sign of saturation when the temperature binding domain bound to the ACE2 receptor” SARS-CoV-2 RBD is nearly identical to that of Sciences, and PhD student Sisi Shan from the Associate Prof. Ding Zhang of the Department Beijing Advanced Center for Future Chips. approached absolute zero, a key feature was published online in Nature as “Accelerated the SARS-CoV RBD, which also utilizes ACE2 as School of Medicine are the co-first authors of of Physics, Tsinghua University, Prof. Haiwen of Ising superconductivity. However, since Article Preview” by the groups of Prof. Xinquan the cell receptor. Structural analysis identified the study. Dr. Shilong Fan from the Tsinghua Liu of Beijing Normal University, and Prof. stanene is centrosymmetric, the observed Wang at the School of Life Sciences and Prof. residues in the SARS-CoV-2 RBD critical for ACE2 University Technology Center for Protein Jurgen Smet of the Max Planck Institute behaviors cannot be explained by the Linqi Zhang at the School of Medicine, Tsinghua binding, the majority of which are either highly Sciences, Drs. Huan Zhou and Qisheng Wang for Solid State Research, Germany, are the established theory of Ising pairing. In order University. This study reported the crystal conserved or shared similar side chain properties from the SSRF, and Drs. Xuanling Shi and Qi structure of the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor- with those in the SARS-CoV RBD. Such similarity Zhang also contributed to the study. Professors binding domain (RBD) in complex with the in structure and sequence strongly argues for a Xinquan Wang and Linqi Zhang are the human cell receptor ACE2 at a resolution of convergent evolution between SARS-CoV-2 and corresponding authors of the study. This study is 2.45 angstrom. By precisely elucidating the SARS-CoV RBDs for improved binding to ACE2, supported by the Beijing Advanced Innovation interactions between RBD and ACE2, this study although SARS-CoV-2 does not cluster within Center for Structural Biology, the Beijing Frontier revealed the structural basis for the recognition SARS and SARS-related coronaviruses. The Research Center for Biological Structure, the of SARS-CoV-2 by ACE2 and provided important epitopes of two SARS-CoV antibodies targeting MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Science, and the structural knowledge for the development of the RBD are also analyzed with the SARS-CoV-2 National Key Plan for Scientific Research and antibodies and vaccines against the COVID-19 RBD, providing insights into future identification Development of China. pandemic. of cross-reactive antibodies.

To help the research on the SARS-CoV-2 and anti- virus drug discovery, the paper was deposited in the preprint server BioRxiv on February 20th, 2020. The coordinates of the crystal structure were also available for download before the official release of the Protein Data Bank (PDB) on the website of the Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology.

To better understand the initial step of SARS- CoV-2 infection at an atomic level, the Wang and Zhang groups expressed and purified the SARS-CoV-2 RBD and human ACE2 in insect cells, crystallized the complex, and collected the diffraction dataset on the BL17U1 beamline

47 48 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER INNOVATION

Reopening the Tsinghua and Sogou release window of soft X-ray World's First Smart Keyboard polarimetry for the Visually Impaired

The Department of Computer Science and of the Department of Computer Science In partnership with Sogou Inc., Tsinghua Reopening the window of soft X-ray Technology of Tsinghua University and and Technology of Tsinghua University led University has established the Tiangong Sogou Inc. (NYSE: SOGO) released the world's their research team to successfully design Institute for Intelligent Computing in 2016, polarimetry in astronomy with the space first smart keyboard for visually impaired a character-level auto-correction method, which includes a joint laboratory that program PolarLight users on 21st May, the ninth annual Global achieving a 63% reduction in the character provides faculty members and students in Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), which error rate (CER). This means that during Tsinghua with the opportunity to utilize focuses on raising awareness of digital access typing, the algorithm can help reduce the their theoretical research to adapt to real- and inclusion for people with disabilities and missed clicks from an average of 3 to 1, for world business challenges. On 11 May 2020, Professor Hua Feng and his experiment occurred in the 1970s, mainly impairments. The smart keyboard, VIPBoard, example. collaborators reported in Nature Astronomy due to the lack of high-sensitivity techniques. aims at improving the underlying keyboard After the research paper was published, a re-detection of soft X-ray polarization from The PolarLight detector has a small area, On each tap, the VIPBoard predicts the algorithm without altering current input Tsinghua and Sogou Inc. started to the Crab nebula with the space program similar to the size of a quarter, with an probability of each key considering both interaction. collaborate immediately on product PolarLight, indicating that this long-awaited attempt to demonstrate the new technique users' keyboard touch location and language development. After a series of processes of window in astronomy has been reopened in space, but surprisingly discovered Entering text on their smartphone remains model, and reads the most likely key, which product evaluation, joint development, and after more than 40 years since the OSO-8 interesting phenomena associated with the hugely challenging for visually impaired users. saves calibration time when the user misses testing, the lab's research result turned into experiment in the 1970s. More interestingly, Crab pulsar, implying that X-ray polarimetry While modern touchscreen keyboards are all the target key. With a one-millisecond an actual product within a year. PolarLight discovered a time variation of is indeed a powerful probe. techniques, also called new windows, are of powered by the word-level auto-correction response time, VIPBoard allows users to polarization that coincides in time with a essential importance. This is the reason why ability to handle input errors, visually impaired correct a variety of text input errors and VIPBoard is one of the many products that Pulsars are the most accurate clocks in the glitch of the Crab pulsar. The variation is astronomers all over the world are working users cannot enjoy this benefit. They rely on a supports multi-language input. are built on the lab's research results. "Some universe. However, their rotational frequency associated with the pulsar emission but not hard to develop advanced techniques to screen-reader keyboard on their smartphones, of these research results are already put into may undergo a sudden change followed The research team published their paper in the nebular emission, suggesting that the enable X-ray polarimetry in future astronomy. which only offers character-level input that mobile applications and are serving millions by a gradual recovery. This is called a pulsar the 2019 ACM CHI Conference “On Human pulsar magnetosphere may have altered The technique that is used in PolarLight will has no predictive text correction ability. When of users," Associate Researcher Yu Chun said. glitch. The mechanism is still unknown, and Factors in Computing Systems” held in after the glitch. be utilized in a NASA mission Imaging X-ray users are texting on their smartphones, they "We are also working on developing other may be related to the interior structure of Glasgow, United Kingdom, the top academic Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) scheduled in 2021 often miss the targeted key when touching technologies that are aimed at improving PolarLight is a dedicated soft X-ray the neutron star. PolarLight detected a time conference in the field of human-computer and a Chinese-European mission concept without visual feedback. digital access for people with disabilities and polarimeter onboard a CubeSat variation of the X-ray polarization right after enhanced X-ray Timing and Polarimetry (eXTP) interaction. The paper won an Honorable impairments, and we expect to have another manufactured by Spacety. It was built on the a glitch of the Crab pulsar on 23 July 2019. planned in 2027. More fruitful scientific results To tackle this problem, Professor Shi Mention Award at the conference. research result published later this year." basis of a high-sensitivity technique initially This may help constrain neutron star physics are expected in this promising area. Yuanchun and Associate Researcher Yu Chun developed by Italian scientists, who are also and distinguish high-energy emission collaborators of PolarLight. Unlike imaging, models of rotation-powered pulsars. This work is a collaboration between timing, and spectroscopy, polarimetry in Tsinghua, INFN-Pisa, INAF/IAPS-Rome, IHEP, Astronomy is a field of science driven the standard band of X-ray astronomy is the Peking University, the Ningbo University of by observations. New observational least explored window, with the previous Technology, North Night Vision, and Spacety.

49 50 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER INNOVATION

Tsinghua University TBSI researchers develop efficient partners with Bosch to perovskite solar cells through advance AI research green anti-solvent engineering

Tsinghua University and Bosch announced a other technologies. A profound impact is also You Zheng, vice-president of Tsinghua A joint team of researchers from the Tsinghua- tuning crystal nucleation and grain growth. five-year research collaboration agreement being felt on the global economy and human University, and Prof. Dr. Thomas Kropf signed Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), and the However, large amounts of anti-solvents are in the field of artificial intelligence by society. Machine-learning is an important the agreement on establishment of the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology required for achieving high efficiency and establishing a Tsinghua-Bosch Joint Research factor to promote the development of AI in research center, while Yuan Wei, secretary- (SIAT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences more importantly, most of these anti-solvents Center for Machine Learning on 6th March. many fields, such as image, voice and machine general of the Tsinghua University Education have developed more efficient perovskite solar such as chlorobenzene and toluene are toxic. The ceremony was held online via video link translation. Although great progress has been Foundation, and Chen Yudong, president cells using green anti-solvents. In this regard, the development of toxicity- from Beijing, Shanghai and Renningen in made in machine-learning in recent years, of Bosch (China) Investment Ltd, signed the free green anti-solvent engineering for high Germany. challenges still lay ahead. These challenges donation agreement. Perovskites are often used in solar cells as they performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is require close cooperation between academia exhibit superior optoelectronic properties, The two parties also signed an agreement on and industry. And our new collaboration The university’s vice-president Yang Bin very attractive. but traditional one-step solution-processed the establishment of the Bosch AI Professor aims to achieve innovations in terms of basic presided over the ceremony. perovskites often suffer from defects- TBSI Assistant Prof. Guodan Wei and Prof. Donation to support professors at Tsinghua’s theories and key breakthrough technologies Tsinghua University’s AI research boasts a induced non-radiative recombination, which Feiyu Kang’s group collaborated with SIAT Department of Computer Science and in machine learning. I sincerely wish and solid foundation and occupies a leading Prof. Jiangyu Li, and recently published their Technology in AI research. strongly believe that our close collaboration significantly hinders the improvement of position both at home and abroad, and has will lead to outcomes that can shape the device performance. Anti-solvent engineering research titled “Suppressing Defects-Induced For their work in the joint research center, made many achievements in areas such as future of human kind.” has been demonstrated to be effective in Non-Radiative Recombination for Efficient Tsinghua and Bosch will leverage their machine learning, information retrieval and Perovskite Solar Cells through Green Anti- advantages and focus on the basic theories natural language processing. As shown by the Prof. Thomas Kropf, the President of Robert Solvent Engineering” in Advanced Materials. and key technologies of machine learning, Bosch Corporate Research, also gave a speech official CS Rankings, Tsinghua ranks second striving to make breakthroughs in areas such at the ceremony. He said: “The collaboration in terms of the number of high-level papers Researchers chose the green anti-solvent as intelligent manufacturing. published in the field of AI among institutions with Tsinghua University marks another methylamine bromide (MABr) in ethanol milestone in Bosch’s efforts to support and universities around the world. Qiu Yong, President of Tsinghua University, (MABr-Eth) to modify perovskite films. The pioneering technologies in the dynamic expressed thanks in his speech for the group’s The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier MABr treatment not only enhanced the AI field and accelerate the deployment continued support of Tsinghua. of technology and services. Currently, Bosch resultant perovskite crystallinity with large of AI in real-world industrial applications. operates seven AI centers worldwide in grain size, but also passivated surface defects. President Qiu said: “I’m delighted to see Bosch believes AI can only be effectively Germany, USA, India, Israel and China. To drive MABr-Eth-treated perovskite films showed that today we will sign two important driven with the involvement of the larger progress, Bosch also has built alliances with improved crystallinity and morphology with scientific community. Tsinghua University is agreements. One on the Joint Research key players in both industry and academia one of the leading universities in the field higher coverage, longer charge carrier decay Center for Machine Learning, and the other across the world to address key challenges in of AI worldwide. Similarly, Bosch has firmly time, and a lower density of surface defect on the Bosch AI Professor Donation. This AI and machine learning. is the first online signing ceremony for a established its position as one of the largest states. Additionally, this strategy delivered PSCs collaboration agreement in the history of industrial contributors to the AI research with the best power conversion efficiency of Tsinghua, which demonstrates that scientific community with the goal of becoming the 21.53%, as well as better storage and light- cooperation and exchange, and international leading company in the field of industrial AI. soaking stability. collaboration should not be interrupted The collaboration between Tsinghua and under any circumstances. We are now in Bosch will offer great potential for synergies These results confirmed that the MABr-Eth the golden age of artificial intelligence for both partners and will be the foundation treatment can substantially suppress defects- development. AI is triggering scientific and for a very fruitful and long-lasting partnership. induced non-radiative recombination for PSCs, technological breakthroughs, and industrial We are extraordinarily happy to officially and also signified the importance of rationally transformation. AI is influencing the ongoing sign this research collaboration agreement choosing green anti-solvents for PSCs to development of the internet, big data, cloud today and are looking towards a bright future achieve improved performance and stability. computing, the Internet of Things and many together.”

51 52 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER INNOVATION

Prof. Huaqiang Cao’s group published a research article in Researchers elucidate Molecular Mechanisms Nature Communications, reporting important progress in of Glycosylase AlkD in Target Search and research into phosphorene nanobelts Recognition of DNA Damage

On August 6th, 2020, Professor Huaqiang the team designed an electrochemical method show that the formation of interstitial oxygen Genome stability and integrity are essential for Cao FRSC FIMMM from the Department of to effectively adjust the ion intercalation rate pairs is the key step to dissociate the P-P bond the survival of all organisms. However, due to Chemistry at Tsinghua University and his and oxygen concentration around the BP by and finally form z-PNBs. endogenous metabolites and environmental collaborators Associate Professor Dan Xie changing the current density, so as to control agents (such as UV light or chemical exposure), from the Institute of Microelectronics at the dimension and size of phosphorene The team also designed and fabricated FET DNA damage constantly occurs and poses Tsinghua University, and Professor Sir Anthony nanostructures, obtaining a series of devices based on z-PNBs via a home-made Cu- a threat. DNA glycosylase is a DNA-binding K. Cheetham FRS from the Department of phosphorene nanostructures, including grid mask method, and explored carrier the protein responsible for repairing DNA Materials Science and Metallurgy at the nanosheets, nanobelts and quantum dots transport characteristics of z-PNBs (Fig. 4). The damage. It remains a puzzle how glycosylase University of Cambridge (co-corresponding (Fig. 1). The structure characterizations show conversion between p-n types of devices was can efficiently and accurately recognize authors) published a research article entitled that the z-PNBs have good crystallinity and also realized. This work provides key materials DNA lesions among millions and billions of "Unzipping of black phosphorus to form flexibility. and opens up new research methods for normal base pairs in the genome. It has been zigzag phosphorene nanobelts" in Nature the application of phosphorene nanobelts hypothesized that glycosylase accomplishes Communications. According to the electrochemical dissociation in active matrix display technology, radio this task by an alternating search between two mechanism, the preparation process is frequency devices and complementary metal diffusion modes: a high-speed-low-accuracy In this work, an electrochemical method is divided into two steps, i.e., ionic intercalation oxide semiconductor device technology. mode and a low-speed-high-accuracy used to control the concentration of oxygen and oxygen degradation (Fig. 2). In the mode. However, due to the limitations in the Zhifang Liu, a PhD candidate under the molecules to prepare zigzag-phosphorene electrochemical process, BF4- ions intercalate spatial and temporal resolutions of current supervision of Professor Cao, and Yilin Sun, a nanobelts (z-PNBs), as well as nanosheets into the BP crystal layers along the a-axis experimental techniques, the slow mode has PhD student candidate under the supervision and quantum dots, via an oxygen-driven direction of BP (i.e., [100] direction of BP, zigzag not yet been detected. mechanism. The mechanism of oxygen-driven direction). At the same time, oxygen molecules of Associate Professor Xie, are the co-first directional cutting of phosphorene is revealed are chemically adsorbed and dissociated to authors. Professor Wei Li from the Center of In order to understand the molecular through theoretical calculation. Field-effect form dangling oxygen on the surface of BP. Rare Earth and Inorganic Functional Materials, mechanism of how glycosylase AlkD transistor (FET) devices are constructed based The hydrogen bond is also formed between the National Institute for Advanced Materials recognizes the DNA damage, Professor on the prepared z-PNBs to study the carrier dangling oxygen and H2O and the hydrolysis at Nankai University and Associate Professor CHEN Chunlai’s group from the School of Life transport characteristics. of P-O-P leads to the breaking of the P-P bond Jiaou Wang from the Institute of High Energy Sciences, Tsinghua University, collaborating improvement in the resolutions enables the The study provided mechanistic insights to form z-PNBs. The various adsorption and Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences with Professor ZHANG Lu from the Fujian researchers to not only observe the fast mode on how conformational dynamics of AlkD- Phosphorene, monolayer or few-layer dissociation pathways of oxygen molecules on also participated in the research. This work is Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter (1D diffusion constant of ~ 8´106 bp2 s-1), dsDNA complex coordinate different diffusion black phosphorus, exhibits fascinating the phosphorene are analyzed and compared supported by the National Key R & D Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Professor but also directly capture the slow mode (1D modes to recognize DNA lesions with high anisotropic properties and shows interesting by theoretical calculation (Fig. 3). The results of China and the National Natural Science HUANG Xuhui’s group from Hong Kong diffusion constant of 6´104-5´105 bp2 s-1). efficiency and accuracy. The mechanism semiconducting behavior. These attractive Foundation of China. University of Science and Technology and adopted by AlkD to search for DNA lesions To further elucidate the underlying properties along a zigzag lattice direction are Professor ZHAO Xinsheng’s group from Peking may be utilized by other glycosylases and molecular mechanism of the slow mode, predicted to overstep those of an armchair University have integrated the experimental DNA binding proteins. The integrated platform the researchers constructed the Markov lattice direction in thermal conductivity, and computational methods to characterize by combining scanning FRET-FCS with the State Model (MSM) based on extensive all- semiconductor behavior, and mechanical the dynamic diffusion of glycosylase AlkD Markov State Model can be further widely atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. strength, leading to the great potential of along a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) at applied to investigate other glycosylases and Based on MSM, they visualized continuous zigzag-phosphorene nanoribbons for a broad the molecular level. The study was published DNA-binding proteins. cycles of AlkD diffusion along dsDNA over range of applications such as thermoelectric in Proceedings of the National Academy of 1 ms, a timescale that is difficult to reach This work is supported by the National devices, flexible electronics, and quantum Sciences of the United States of America. information technologies. However, due to by conventional MD simulations. They Natural Science Foundation of China, the the stability and limit of existing synthesis The researchers developed a scanning revealed that the diffusion of AlkD over one Hong Kong Research Grant Council, the technology, the effective preparation of Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) base pair contained a rate-limiting rotation Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, phosphorene nanobelts has become a key – Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS) and a sequential translation. Moreover, the Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for bottleneck in its research and application. platform to probe the protein dynamics at the they pinpointed the essential role of Y27 in Structural Biology and the Beijing Frontier microsecond temporal resolution and sub- determining the AlkD diffusion dynamics both Research Center for Biological Structure. Inspired by the fact that black phosphorus (BP) nanometer spatial resolution. The significant experimentally and computationally. could be oxidized and decomposed in the air,

53 54 2020 TSINGHUA SCIENTIFIC NEWSLETTER INNOVATION

New bioprinting method for gastric wounds

Gastric wall injuries are a common digestive bioprinting viable cells and repairing wounds. tract problem, often requiring drug therapy The tests showed that printed cells remained or invasive surgery. Bioprinting, a way of at high viability and steady proliferation, delivering new cells directly to the wound site which indicated good biological function of to repair tissue, offers a potential treatment. the cells in the printed tissue. Xu Tao, Professor from Tsinghua’s Department Combing research on biological of Mechanical Engineering, and his team of scientific and technological achievements manufacturing, 3D printing and mechanics, 18th Symposium on Scientific recently put forward a new concept of "in situ and the new developments in the liberal the research verified the feasibility of this in vivo bioprinting" and designed a microbot arts. A new think tank system has been concept for treatment for gastric wall injuries Research concludes that enters the body via an endoscope to established to provide intellectual support and offered a potential application for a carry out tissue repair. for addressing national and global problems. variety of wound treatments inside the body A comprehensive discipline layout covering “The competence to innovate is a core They tested the microbot and the delivery without the need for invasive surgery. Eight topics 11 disciplines has been completed, leading strength of a university. There is no world-class system with a biological model of a human Eight topics were discussed at the symposium: scientific research in China. The research was published in the journal university without world-class innovation stomach and an endoscope to mimic the the development of academic ecology Biofabrication. competence. Universities should lead through insertion and bioprinting operation. They also Next steps innovation, support national development and academic community, the discipline carried out a bioprinting test in a cell culture with first-class innovation achievements, and development plan and discipline adjustment Despite the remarkable results achieved in the dish to test how effective the device was at build a world-class innovation system,” said mechanism, the layout of fundamental reform of research over the past years, current President Qiu at the Closing Ceremony for the frontiers and key core technologies, the research work still faces a series of problems 18th Symposium on Scientific Research taking construction of major innovation platforms and challenges. Going forward, Tsinghua will place both online and offline on October 9th. and research teams, new industry-university- take further steps to strengthen the academic research cooperation and mechanism for the community construction to create a first-class According to President Qiu, Tsinghua will transformation of scientific and technological academic ecology and academic culture, accelerate the pace to build a world-class achievements, global innovation cooperation, improve the layout of disciplines, further university innovation system. As an academic integration of research and education and promote interdisciplinary development, institution, the university was born to cultivation of innovative talents, and the strengthen the long-term and stable support cultivate talents and take academic pursuit construction of a world-class university for fundamental research, deepen the pilot as its responsibility. Integration of research innovation system. reform of national key laboratories, build a and education is the core philosophy of high level of full-time research team, promote universities and an important guarantee for Highlights and Achievements the integration of research and education, cultivating top innovative talents. Without Notable achievements have been made improve the mechanism for transforming high-level academic research, it is impossible since the 17th Symposium on Scientific scientific research achievements, take to cultivate high-level innovative talents and Research, including the improvements in an active part in international scientific to better serve social development. the development of disciplines, academic projects, and accelerate the pace to build an innovation system for world-class universities. The theme of this year’s symposium is level and innovation capabilities, which are reflected in the constant improvement in the “Innovate research model to build a world- Initiated in 1956, altogether 18 symposiums quality of academic papers published, the class university innovation system”. Launched on Scientific Research have been held up increase of the national awards in science in March, it lasted for six months and went to this year and it has become a tradition to and technology, the construction of leading through three stages: the discussion of advance scientific research work at Tsinghua. problems, the presentation of reports and the national key laboratories, the transformation conclusion.

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Chairperson Chen applauded their hard work in her remarks. “On this special occasion, we would like to express CAMPUS our sincere respect and gratitude towards the medical teams, including the one from the Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, who went to Wuhan when it was severely stricken by the virus. They are the brave warriors that embolden spirits in the time of gravest peril. Tsinghua University is proud of you. Tsinghua University is proud of our faculty and staff members, for their magnificent display of dedication and devotion during the fight against COVID-19.”

“The year 2020 marks a milestone for the nation, as China approaches the completion of its first centenary goal of It’s a vibrant and intensely united community, within which building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. the campus that took in exhibitions at Tsinghua’s history Tsinghua celebrates there is no lack of enthusiasm for the online celebration For Tsinghua, 2020 marks the conclusion of its third nine- museum and art museum, a fascinating showcase of entries despite long distances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. 109th anniversary year plan and comprehensive reforms for building a world- in Tsinghua University's Challenge Cup Technological No matter where they are, at home or abroad, Tsinghua class university. 2021 will witness the 110th anniversary of Innovation Competition, and the 2020 THU CIE Exposition. teachers, students and alumni have united as one and send online Tsinghua, which represents the start of a new phase of the As part of the anniversary week celebrations, Tsinghua their best wishes and encouragement to the university and University’s development,” Chen added. “In the bright future organized the Special Dialogue on online education in also to the world in this tough fight. that awaits us, Tsinghua University will strive to maintain partnership with UNESCO, providing a platform for over 30 Tsinghua University celebrated its 109th birthday on April Tsinghua President Qiu Yong and Chairperson of the this momentum and head towards the fulfillment of our institutions and organizations in 17 countries and regions 26th. The event, coming at a time of global pandemic that University Council Chen Xu, along with many other university’s developmental goals with confidence and to share best practices and experiences in online education compels social distancing, was held online, leveraging digital university leaders, attended Sunday’s anniversary ceremony determination.” as an emergency response to the outbreak of COVID-19. prowess for a reunion of the diverse Tsinghua community. on campus, extending their warm greetings and best This year’s online celebrations also included academic The university’s many schools and departments also wishes to all Tsinghua community members. forums, performances and competitions attended by organized their own celebratory activities online. President Qiu said in his speech, “The year of 2020 teachers, students and alumni, as well as digital tours of demonstrates the resilience and strength of Chinese people in the face of adversity. We firmly believe that, this year will also witness the epic written collectively by humankind in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. As we confront this common challenge for humanity, Tsinghua has stood steadfastly with the nation and made concerted efforts to tackle this severe challenge. Tsinghua will shoulder the responsibility and strive to better contribute to the development of the nation and the future of humankind.”

He also noted, “I hope the online commemorative events will bring the community the same familiar warmth and a memorable experience. Tsinghua will always be the home for our students, faculty and alumni. I look forward to meeting you again in the brighter future that awaits us.”

At the ceremony, the medical teams from Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital received honorary awards and bouquets for their contributions on the front line in the heavily-hit Chinese city of Wuhan.

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Tsinghua launches virtual exhibition for graduating art students

A website to show its students’ recent and current graduation projects was launched by Tsinghua University’s Academy of Arts and Design on June 12th.A total of 282 undergraduates and 167 postgraduates from the Academy Brighter career of Arts and Design brought over 1,000 works to the online exhibition. pathways for Tsinghua These students braved many difficulties brought by the and Hubei graduates COVID-19 pandemic to create works with the instruction of their supervisors. Graduation season is approaching. Like every year, it is a Unlike brick-and-mortar showrooms where students time for fresh graduates to say farewell to their campus simply install their works, the online venue allows them lives and embark on a professional one. This year, although to curate a mini solo show of their creations in a virtual the outbreak of the COVID-19 has affect people’s daily lives, space of 100 square meters each and build a 5-km-long the employment of graduates is not being disturbed at gallery that provides visitors with diverse interactive Tsinghua. experiences including a chance to learn about the students by their profiles. In 2020, there will be around 7,700 Tsinghua graduates, among whom, 3,800 will be entering the job market, The students can arrange their projects and design the including 400 undergraduates and 3,400 postgraduates. lighting and interactive functions of their shows. Through thorough planning and support from the university, schools and departments, as well as Tsinghua’s Their works convey concerns about social issues such Career Development Center, more than half of those job- as the aging society and the reclamation of abandoned Tsinghua University held its 2020 commencement ceremony market entrants are already employed. industrial sites and health, with a special focus on problems Tsinghua University for postgraduate students and undergraduate students emerging during the pandemic. online on June 22nd and 23rd. The online commencement To further support more graduates, as well as adapting hosts first-ever online to the requirements of epidemic prevention, Tsinghua June is usually the time when art academies stage ceremony was livestreamed worldwide on various media launched a large-scale online career fair this Monday, which exhibitions of their majors' graduation projects. But the and social media platforms including Facebook and Twitter commencement was the first time in Tsinghua’s history. It was also the first pandemic has kept colleges shut down and students at in both Chinese and English. Students who were unable time that Tsinghua has held a career fair in collaboration home for months since the winter break, disrupting the to return to the university, and their families and friends ceremony with universities in Hubei province, a unique way to traditional convention. The pandemic did not, however, watched the virtual celebration from the comfort of their support graduates in the epidemic-stricken area. impede the students’ artistic creativity. own homes. The university also set up outdoor screens at seventeen different viewing points from where in-person Tsinghua is holding this year’s fair together with 126 People can visit exhibition.ad.tsinghua.edu.cn to explore participants watched their commencement ceremony while universities in Hubei, including Wuhan University the brilliance of the graduates’ projects. maintaining physical distance standards. and Huazhong University of Science and Technology, offering a safe and convenient channel for students from the epidemic-stricken area to search for the ideal job opportunity. Additionally, Tsinghua also partnered with the Talent Service Center of Wuhan, offering a special regional employment session for students who would like to work in Hubei province.

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Tsinghua holds seminar on “Higher Education in Cloud - Promise, Tsinghua welcomes Experience, and Expectation” new graduates

Tsinghua University convened a seminar its plan of “postponing the start of the 2020 innovation and intelligent teaching have it offered to other universities. “The support Tsinghua University held an opening We must take short steps persistently every on July 3rd to review its success in online spring semester whilst starting classes as interacted well with each other,” he added. of Tsinghua provided to other universities ceremony for its incoming graduate day and eventually we will enjoy a good teaching during the pandemic, share useful scheduled” five months ago. is very impressive. The courses created by students on August 26th. harvest.” experience and explore new ways to further He noted that having successfully run this Tsinghua university were shared to help The opening ceremony, which saw Qiu concluded his speech by saying young improve its online education system in the “For the first time, all the Tsinghua members year’s Spring semester online, Tsinghua was students enrolled in other universities and have completed the whole process of confident and ready for the upcoming Fall welcoming remarks from university students would be cherished by Tsinghua future. the online teaching experience was also leaders and student representatives, was and the beautiful Tsinghua campus would online education including giving classes, semester. shared,” she said. livestreamed world-wide in both Chinese be even more wonderful because of the The seminar, entitled “Higher Education in academic exchanges, defense and exams and and English. incoming students. Cloud – Promise, Experience and Expectation”, cultivation of a learning atmosphere,” she said, At the seminar, Qiu announced that the Several heads and representatives from university would host a Tsinghua Global held at the university’s main building, was adding that Tsinghua’s success in achieving a various departments of the university Tsinghua President Qiu Yong delivered a Professor Wang Xinquan of the School attended by the University leaders Qiu high-quality online education demonstrated Summer School from July 20th-28th online including Yu Xinjie, Head of the Online speech entitled “Give life warmth and strive of Life Sciences, speaking on behalf of Yong, Chen Xu, Jiang Shengyao, Wang Xiqin, the university’s responsibility, passion, this year, with the theme “Toward a Post- Teaching Experts Group , Zheng Xiaodi, for dreams”. He asked the students to keep the faculty, said he was hopeful that the Ji Junmin, Yang Bin, Li Yibing, You Zheng, innovation and synergy. Pandemic World.” representative of the Cloned-class teachers, their hearts and minds open for others, students would love their mother country, uphold the value of fairness and justice, work with a practical, scientific and rigorous Guo Yong, Zheng Li, Xiang Botao and Peng “Leveraging a variety of formats, including Zhang Ran, from the School of Life Gang. Yang Bin, Vice President and Provost of Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong Sciences, Yi Bo, from Tsinghua University aspire for a more caring world, understand attitude, and have the courage to face cloud discussions, cloud visits, and cloud the meaning of life, and work hard to challenges. Tsinghua University, moderated the seminar, thanked Tsinghua faculty, staff members Primary School, Yang Dongjiang, from and students for keeping a positive attitude observations and performances, we will achieve their dreams as young people in which was broadcast live on various social the Academy of Arts and Design, and Chen Xu, Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua and delivering a meaningful online teaching utilize world-class teaching resources across the new era. media platforms. other teaching management staff made University Committee, also attended reform successfully through their preciseness, the campus, invite renowned Chinese and presentations at the seminar, and shared “Because of the outbreak, you now have a the ceremony, which was moderated by The seminar opened with a video that international scholars for lectures, and offer diligence, pragmatic attitudes and an the behind-the-scenes stories of Tsinghua fuller understanding of the meaning of life Tsinghua Vice President and Provost Yang showcased the initiatives that were taken by courses ranging from economics, politics, innovative spirit. online teaching since the outbreak of the regardless of circumstances. Experiencing Bin. the university for the successful launch and society, education, climate change to epidemic. They also discussed the whole sorrow and joy, life is worth cherishing, operation of its online education in the spring "Today, I am confirmed that this brave leadership," he added. Liu Yidi, a doctoral student of the system synchronization of interactive online caring for and defending with all your semester. exploration in online teaching in 2020 is a might,” Qiu added. Department of Chemistry said, " As a new meaningful move in Tsinghua’s history,” he The Global Summer School will recruit teaching program release, online teaching postgraduate student, I hope I can devote Due to the coronavirus outbreak, Tsinghua said. young learners from the Global Alliance course resource sharing, and the launch of President Qiu also offered students advice myself to research valuable and useful to decided to conduct its 2020 Spring Semester of Universities on Climate (GAUC), Asian online international summer programs, as on achieving their life goals. “Achieving our human society." online. Tsinghua launched 3,923 courses He said that, in face of a critical challenge to Universities Alliance (AUA) and Association of well as the continuation of the combination dreams will never be realized overnight. online, starting classes via its own online humankind, Tsinghua, with its outstanding Pacific Rim Universities (APRU), offering them of online and offline teaching methods in teaching platform “Rain Classroom” from traditions and strong sense of mission, a platform to understand the opportunities the future. February. Moreover, the university recently with the unity and enthusiasm of its faculty and challenges in the post-COVID-19 world, held its first-ever online commencement members and students, and with the and explore solutions for a sustainable future. ceremonies for the 2020 graduating class. innovative practice of technology, remained steadfast to its responsibility of imparting Shi Zhongying, Dean of the Institute Chairperson of the University Council Chen knowledge and educating people, and had of Education, gave a report about the Xu thanked all the faculty members and staff realized its commitment to society. achievements in online education research at of Tsinghua for responding quickly to work the seminar. online, seek training and technical support, He said Tsinghua’s Spring semester as an online semester was a great success, due to Zhang Ying, Research Assistant Professor from and communicate with students to ensure the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, shared the smooth and orderly operation of the the top-level design of teaching plans and the system operation mechanism. “Technological her feedback on online education after the online education as the university unveiled seminar by praising Tsinghua for the support

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Tsinghua begins its Fall semester Tsinghua Launches combining online and offline learning 110th Anniversary Logo

Garnered over the Century,” President Qiu “Reforms will proceed at multiple levels. announced that the teaching model in the We want to change because we want to Fall semester would see a combination of become even better in the future,” he said. both online and offline methods, as the pandemic is not over yet. He mentioned that Tsinghua has established an online teaching research “As the outbreak prevention and control group and has been carrying out research measures became a new normal, we on the policy, effect and cases of online continued to seek quality development of education. “This expert panel has already online education as well as the integration started another round of research now of online and offline teaching, furthering the that we are going to adopt online plus comprehensive educational reform,” he said. offline model.”

He said the success Tsinghua achieved in the He advocated that future universities must first half year has laid a solid foundation for be more open and integrated to achieve what the university would achieve in the new greater levels of inclusion and quality, and semester, and shared the key reasons that future learning must be more student- Tsinghua University began its Fall semester Sense of Duty and Our Endeavor”. led to the success of the previous semester, driven and smarter. On September 1st, Tsinghua University open a new chapter in Tsinghua’s second by holding the first university-wide lectures of which could be equally helpful for the success She spoke about the efforts made by the released a commemorative logo for its hundred years, which is manifested in the semester on September 1st. of the upcoming semester. “At Tsinghua, we value the partnership university in the previous semester in the between teachers and students, value 110th anniversary, to be celebrated in 2021. the 110th anniversary theme “Strive for The first lectures in the 2020 Fall semester global fight against COVID-19, and ensuring He noted that Tsinghua would forge ahead the unfailing reliability of continuing The years “1911-2021” featured in the logo Excellence, Innovate for the Future”. were held in the main building of the safety and quality online learning of the with its teaching, research, as well as the education; and hold on to our fundamental highlight the University’s founding year and The logo uses the number "110" as the university and were broadcast live on various students, and urged the incoming students reform and development of the university duty to educate,” said President Qiu. anniversary year. basic form and lines as the main expressive media platforms, including Tsinghua’s own to take primary responsibility for their own without lowering its guard in the outbreak The creativity of the logo originates from technique. Two of the “1” figures are online teaching platform “Rain Classroom”, in safety and health. “Don’t take a chance. Don’t prevention as the safety and health of During his lecture, President Qiu a geometric figure of concentric and composed of 11 lines - graded from thin both Chinese and English. lose patience. Don’t lower your guard.” its faculty members and students always announced that Tsinghua would celebrate progressive squares and circles. The straight to thick, rising from low to high, highlight remained the university’s priority. its 110th anniversary next year under the Tsinghua University Council Chairperson Chen “Tsinghua would refuel its efforts to lead the theme “Strive for Excellence, Innovate lines represent an upward ladder and the theme of Tsinghua University’s Xu and Tsinghua President Qiu Yong delivered world at both university and discipline level, “Tsinghua also strived to build first-class for the Future.” He also unveiled the flipped pages, symbolizing the continuous celebration of its 110th anniversary. The their lectures, which were remotely attended achieve organic growth, and honor its historic education system for talent cultivation by anniversary logo, which uses the Arabic climbing of scientific peaks and the three concentric circles around the “0” give by nearly 50,000 Tsinghua students, faculty, duty in this landmark year,” said Chairperson launching programs for strengthening basic numeral 110 and presents the first two pursuit of academic paths. These elements the logo a harmonious combination of staff members, and alumni representatives, Chen. disciplines, with the aim of strengthening digits in a vertical stripe pattern and the reflect the profound culture of Tsinghua squares and circles. The University emblem including more than 3,800 undergraduate the foundation for talent development and zero with the Tsinghua University emblem University. The year 2021 is the 110th cleverly embedded inside the “0” has made “Let’s cherish the moment back on campus freshmen who are all set to begin their national rejuvenation,” President Qiu said in inside two circles. anniversary of the founding of Tsinghua the logo recognizable and unique. The and waste no time in your study and research. Tsinghua journey. the lecture. University and also the first ten years of logo adopts the University's theme color Make the most out of every day and be bold Tsinghua’s second hundred years. The “110” – purple – and incorporates a gradient Unlike the Spring semester, which was held in exploration and be sharp in innovation so He said Tsinghua will carry out more in the logo symbolizes this concept and design, which not only creates a grand and completely online due to the pandemic, as to make bigger strides in 2020,” she said to international exchange activities in the reflects the fact that Tsinghua people have majestic atmosphere, but also reflects lively Tsinghua’s Fall semester is going to see classes the incoming students. future. “We strive to make Tsinghua more inherited fine traditions, have explored and vivid visual effects. being taught both online and offline. open. During the pandemic prevention While delivering his lecture, entitled and innovated bravely and have striven to and control period, we have been keeping Chairperson Chen Xu delivered her lecture, “Tsinghua’s Profound Understanding in and strengthening exchanges with global entitled “Unwavering Commitment to Our Education and Splendid Cultural Heritage universities.”

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Department of “I sincerely wish the Department every success in the next 50 Tsinghua holds opening years ahead. I look forward to the Department of Automation Automation of Tsinghua reaching even greater heights in the future,” Qiu added. ceremony to welcome On behalf of educators and researchers in the field of University celebrates its automation, Zheng Nanning, President of the Chinese new undergraduates Association of Automation (CAA), thanked the Department for 50th anniversary its support to the CAA over the years, especially in the field of continuous innovation regarding process control and control Tsinghua University held an opening ceremony and formally theory, as well as talent nurturing. welcomed its new cohort of undergraduate students on The Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, celebrated September 9th. Zhang Tao, Head of the Department of Automation, briefly its 50th anniversary on September 26th. reviewed the history of the Department and said he is Tsinghua President Qiu Yong delivered a speech during the The President of Tsinghua University Qiu Yong, the Secretary of confident that the Department would continue to contribute ceremony. Chen Xu,Tsinghua University Council Chairperson, the CPC Tsinghua University Committee Chen Xu, and Tsinghua to the development of China and the world. also attended the ceremony, which was moderated by University Vice President and Provost Yang Bin attended the Tsinghua Vice President Peng Gang. Tsinghua launches Representing academic organizations that have a close event, together with academicians of the Chinese Academy of partnership with the Department, Shao Zhijiang, Dean of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering in the field of "Although some of our incoming students are still unable Institute for Intelligent the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang automation. Zhang Zuo, the Secretary of the CPC Department of to come to the campus due to the pandemic, this special University, expressed his congratulations and praises to the Automation Committee, moderated the ceremony. ceremony has brought us close together. From this moment, Society Governance Department and wished to strengthen the cooperation. no matter where you are, your Tsinghua time has started Wu Guanzheng, member of the 16th Standing Committee simultaneously. No matter how things change, I hope you He Meiying, former Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and the will make roots in the land, respect the people, shoulder your Tsinghua University recently established an institute for Committee and former Secretary of the CPC Department of Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, responsibilities, and make your unique contribution to society," research into the influence of the development and application Automation Committee, expressed her pride in the endeavor, who spent nine years in Tsinghua University in thermal said President Qiu. of artificial intelligence technology on social governance. achievement and contributions the Department has made measurement and the automatic control specialty of the since its founding, and summarized her wishes to the Department, sent a congratulatory letter before the event. Wu Tsinghua will greet over 3,800 new undergraduates this year. The Institute for Intelligent Society Governance (THUISG) Department into three suggestions: to keep an awareness highly praised the achievements the Department has made in Of these, around 500 students attended the ceremony at the will provide theoretical support for research into AI's impact of crisis, to keep traditions and innovation, and to enhance the past 50 years: “I believe that in the new era, the Department University Gymnasium, the main venue for the ceremony. on social governance across the globe. It will draw on the openness and cooperation. university’s multidisciplinary strengths. of Automation will continue to forge ahead, to nurture more Other freshmen gathered in 21 venues around the campus to outstanding professionals in the field of automation, become Over 500 participants attended the celebration, including enjoy the opening ceremony with their peers. Meanwhile the Tsinghua already has advantages in AI theoretical research and a leader in technological innovation, and make greater representatives from several schools and departments of Tsinghua ceremony was streamed world-wide in Chinese and English. core technology breakthroughs, creative talent training and contributions to national prosperity,” Wu wrote in his letter. and other universities and academic organizations, as well as from think tank construction, said Xiang Botao, Deputy Secretary of the automation industry. The ceremony was also live-streamed to President Qiu Yong spoke at the event and conveyed his the CPC Tsinghua University Committee, at the event. the worldwide audience and the number of clicks reached about congratulations to the Department of Automation in his speech. 340,000, through the live broadcast platform. The Institute, according to Xiang, will promote experimental work and systematical studies on new mechanisms, models “A new round of technological revolution, industrial shift and and challenges in an intelligent society, which will help China social transformation is driving our world today. Automation to achieve a modern governance capacity and system and take is a key technology in empowering the economy with a global lead in such issues. information technology, in supporting national strategies such as smart manufacturing, digital economy, life and health, and After the launch ceremony, a group of experts and scholars smart services, as well as in overcoming global challenges made reports at a seminar. including energy, resources, and environment,” Qiu pointed out in his speech. “Over the past five decades, the Department has nurtured more than 12,000 outstanding graduates, pioneered a multitude of world-leading scientific and technological achievements, and embarked on a path marked by cross- disciplinary and innovation. In the future, the Department should keep the monument to promote the innovation and development of control science and technology.”

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Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology celebrates its 60th anniversary

The Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology of Tsinghua University held a grand meeting to commemorate its 60th anniversary in Beijing, on September 26th.

Chen Xu, Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee, extended warm congratulations to all faculty, students and alumni, and expressed her heartfelt thanks to people from all walks of life who have cared about and supported the development of the Institute and Tsinghua.

Chen said that over the past 60 years, the Institute has achieved a number of leading scientific research results in China and worldwide by steadily aiming at scientific frontiers and serving the major strategic needs of the country.

Tsinghua always highlights nuclear energy as a key discipline, exchanges and cooperation in public communication and Founded in 1960, the Institute is the largest research institute and hopes that the Institute will take key core technologies of nuclear safety culture construction, as well as help train more in China’s higher education system and one of the important the country as its research goal, carry forward the Institute’s talented people for nuclear energy administration. nuclear energy research bases in the early development stage traditional spirit of innovation and hard work, and strive for of China. With outstanding research teams, the Institute has making greater contributions to the great rejuvenation of the Li Meng, Vice Minister of Science and Technology of China, built four experimental nuclear reactors and has a number Chinese nation, Chen added. said the Institute should give full play to its technological, of high-level research platforms. In addition, it has built an talent, and platform advantages in the field of nuclear energy, Zhang Zuoyi, Head of the Institute, noted in his speech that advanced reactor engineering laboratory and an advanced and continue to carry out industry-university-research it has been working on the peaceful use of atomic energy, PWR laboratory, which are two super large-scale laboratories cooperation while making more contributions to China's and is increasing efforts in research on the inherent safety of at a world advanced level. nuclear energy innovation system construction. nuclear energy. Serving as a nuclear energy talent training base, the Institute By insisting on independent innovation and solid basic “We are committed to developing it into a world-leading also has established a complete nuclear science and research, the Institute should help improve China’s original interdisciplinary high-tech research institute focused on technology discipline system, and its discipline of "nuclear innovation capabilities in the nuclear energy field, he added. nuclear energy and new energy research,” Zhang said. science and technology" ranks first in China’s nuclear Representatives from related ministries, enterprises, research discipline evaluation. Liu Hua, Vice Minister of Ecology and Environment and institutions, universities and local governments attended the Administrator of National Nuclear Safety Administration, said conference. the Institute should bring in more talents, and put more effort into scientific research and development in order to keep improving the independent production level of key nuclear safety technology equipment and software. Liu added that the university and the Institute could further increase

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#ConnectingTsinghua

#Connecting Tsinghua is an online campaign launched by Tsinghua University's Global Communication Office, providing a platform for the global Tsinghua community to send anniversary best wishes and share their Tsinghua stories. The campaign will be updated on the Tsinghua Anniversary Website and Tsinghua's official international social media accounts.

69 70 2020 TSINGHUA TSINGHUA COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

Tsinghua Story

Alex Rudnicki Saran Zeb "Mу first mission in life is to understand how the world works, and I don't believe anyone can understand the 21st century without "Tsinghua is a better place for me to play different kind of sports and fully utilize my strengths." Saran Zeb (Pakistan), a Ph.D. student from the understanding China." Alex Rudnicki shares how he joined the Tsinghua MBA program and landed a job as Associate Director at JD, China's Department of Automation, loves running and has just completed 71 laps of 450 meters each, a total of 34 kilometers in 3 hours. leading е-commerce company. Passionate in celebrating the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, he participated in the themed running Coming from San Francisco, Alex served as a Vice President of MBA Class Council and a startup advisor at Tsinghua X-lab. "Tsinghua is first activity with his Chinese classmates, serving as a cultural ambassador for Pak-China bilateral relations. It was quite a difficult challenge for and foremost an engineering powerhouse, So it was always inspiring to meet some of China's smartest builders and help them work on their me as I have never run for this long before. It is my best gift for China's . 71st national celebration," said Zeb. investor pitch or business model," he mentioned. His most precious memories at Tsinghua were organizing engineering lab tours to play with As a member of a running club in Tsinghua, he enjoyed his evening runs with different friends at different paces. Without sports, there is no cutting-edge technology and a class road trip to Inner Mongolia to camp in yurts on the grasslands. Tsinghua. I hope that along with my studies, I could have more opportunities to continue my sports activities." During his MBA studies, Alex received a summer internship offer from JD.com. After graduation, he joined the company as an International Management Trainee, and currently works as an Associate Director in Corporate Development to build JD's ecosystem through strategic partnerships.

Ye Binbin Zhang Dongdong “Sketching a garden doesn’t always go well. I have to locate every single plant in my mind. Many times I have to repeatedly overturn my "I picked up running during my studies at Tsinghua. This sport has changed me a lot. I am no longer the same person I was 5 years ago. I ideas,” said Ye Binbin. am more positive, more resilient, and I am no longer afraid of facing difficulties in life," said Zhang Dongdong, a PhD graduate from the Having worked three years on campus as a horticulturist, Ye Binbin has been engaged in many campus revitalization projects, turning Department of Mechanical Engineering. Not only was he successful academically, he also ran 12888km and won more than 50 medals rundown places into scenic landscapes. during his studies at Tsinghua! As the only Asian campus nominated for best-looking campuses in the world, Tsinghua’s beauty can be attributed to our creative and Running was there for Dongdong during his entire PhD study, allowing him to make lifetime friends as he took part in all 4 running hardworking landscape gardeners. associations on campus. The Morning Run Association was the first running club he joined and he even became the team captain later. Gardening is not all about drawing sketches in the office, so Binbin also spends a lot of time outdoors working directly with the workers, with "I feel reluctant to leave the campus and my running partners," he explained, as his Tsinghua journey ends. "I'm thankful for the conducive her hard work rewarded upon seeing her beautiful creations. sports environment in Tsinghua that I have benefitted greatly from." “I’m always happy and proud to see teachers and students walking through my ‘works’. Tsinghua University is rich in plant varieties and site After graduating, Dongdong will join Huawei, but he will be keeping in contact with his fellow Tsinghua alumni to continue running. types. There is great room for me to grow and I’m lucky to work in Tsinghua University.”

Rick Dunham Min Junrong "We at Tsinghua will become innovators in online education and virtual classrooms." Professor Richard Dunham was home in the States "Being able to do lacquerware repair at the Forbidden City is a very lucky thing for people who learn painting." 20 years ago, Min Junrong when he first realised that this semester was going to look a little different. Global Business Journalism (@gbjprogram ) program students are (China) was admitted to the Tsinghua Academy of Arts and Design to study drawing and painting. For over 10 years, he has been working as spread across 19 time zones so one of the major tasks was coordinating a suitable time for everyone to attend Professor Dunham’s “Advanced a restorer of antiquities in the Forbidden City. News Writing” class this semester. With the support of other faculty members, he believes that they can turn these challenging circumstances In this quiet palace courtyard, Min deals with cultural artifacts with patience. As different lacquer items require a wide variety of restoration into a rewarding educational experience and that online teaching tools can bring new opportunities to his teaching model. "With these new processes, Min has faced different crafting challenges. "We have to learn and do everything step by step. The process is pretty long, but I think tools, I can bring my students to the International Center for Journalists or even do real-time practice interviews and bring on more guest it's fun and not boring." speakers and make sure my Tsinghua students feel that their educational experience this semester is as good as (or better than) all of their previous semesters." 20 years after graduation, alumnus Min Junrong reflects on what Tsinghua gave him. "The craft and creative techniques taught by professors at Tsinghua continue to help me today."

Narantungalag Enkhtur Yao Lan "Following the Tsinghua motto, I am trying to let my actions speak on behalf of me and spread the knowledge I gained from the sharp- "The most valuable lesson Tsinghua taught me is the attitude of doing things - not only thinking about ourselves but thinking more about minded Tsinghua community," said Narantungalag Enkhtur (Mongolia), who noted that being a #TsinghuaRen is a life-time honor with others and the meaning behind it," said Yao Lan (China), an expert in Suzhou embroidery. After graduating from Tsinghua Academy of Arts high responsibility. and Design, Yao Lan devotes herself to the inheritance and innovation of Suzhou embroidery. Growing up in a small city in the western part of Mongolia, Narantungalag decided to join the Global Business Journalism Program after "Marketing Suzhou embroidery is not to subvert previous generations' efforts, but to explore the present." Yao Lan believes the best working at Bloomberg. "At first, studying journalism at postgraduate level in English as a non-native speaker seemed daunting for me. But environment to inherit Suzhou embroidery is not in the museums, but in the market. She has been trying to blend this intangible cultural Tsinghua gave me a glimpse of a diversified skillset, ranging from writing a story to developing websites," she mentioned. During her studies, heritage into people's lives through creative designs. She uses the elements of Suzhou embroidery in watches, necklaces, earrings, and even Narantungalag participated in the Insight into China Program at Tsinghua and visited Xinhua News Agency to meet their Al experiments. home decoration. DIY embroidery classes are also provided for people to experience Suzhou embroidery. "Seeing technological advancements in the journalism industry was a mind-blowing experience for me. This could only happen in China," We hope to share stories of China and Chinese handicraft through intangible cultural heritage powered by creative designs and innovations. she recalled. After her graduation, she developed a media start-up Nest Center for Journalism Innovation and Development to improve local journalism. Recently, she started working as a Principal Advisor Media and Communication with the Rio Tinto Mongolia team.

Joël Naoki Ernesto Christoph Yan Binwei "My experience at Tsinghua has been wonderful. I have rarely learned and experienced So much in such a short time - both that which I had "Loving mathematics has nothing to do with one's gender." Yan Binwei, first place finisher and the only female participant to score full marks hoped for, and that which I did not even know was possible. " on the Chinese Mathematical Olympiad, comments on the prejudice against women in STEM. Besides his classes, JoëI Naoki Ernesto Christoph (France) from the Tsinghua-Johns Hopkins dual degree master's program in Global Politics She considers traditional gender stereotypes to be the biggest setback against women pursuing a STEM field: " many people have the and Economics has partaken in many various activities in his first year with us. His highlights include the many cultural trips taken with preconception that women are not good at math, and that's exactly what has impeded many people from pursuing their interest." classmates, attending and organizing all types of events, and the delicious food from the canteens. Discovering the beauty of mathematics since childhood, Yan Binwei has now stepped into Tsinghua University to further explore this field In December 2019, Joël joined the inaugural Youth Delegation of the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC), an initiative by that she loves. Tsinghua University, at the 25th United Nations Climate Change Conference, held in Madrid. "Representing GAUC at COP25 has been one of the most memorable experiences of my life. There were many takeaways, every day." When asked about his time at Tsinghua, his main takeaway was that both in Beijing and beyond, there are countless opportunities and it's up to each one of us to take initiative, get involved, speak our actions, and live our words."

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