On October 8th, Tsinghua University held a Graduate Education and Development Conference. President Qiu Yong delivered a speech, discussing measures and ideas for graduate education reform.

Despite fruitful reform outcomes in recent years, problems are still present in some areas. The university will deepen its understanding of graduate education, and take measures, according to President Qiu.

For example, honors and scholarships should cover more graduate students to inspire them to take charge in their academic life. In addition, students would be further encouraged to think beyond themselves, and effectively be the global voice of Tsinghua and China.

The quality of international graduate students in Tsinghua has been gradually improving.

At present, Tsinghua has fine sources for international master’s students, with apt distribution amongst countries. Close to 900 international master’s students admitted in 2020 come from 94 different countries, the five biggest sources being the United States, Germany, Malaysia, Canada and France.

Meanwhile, 112 international doctoral students admitted in 2020 come from 41 different countries, with developing students comprising the majority, the five biggest sources being Pakistan, Thailand, South Korea, the United States and Malaysia.

Tsinghua provided opportunities for intercultural exchange and study through joint degrees, exchange programs, overseas internships, international conferences, summer school programs, social practice activities, and more. In 2019, 23.03% of graduate students participated in international exchange activities.

President Qiu also pointed out that Tsinghua must strengthen classes, social practice, and other opportunities related to Chinese culture and Chinese national conditions, encouraging international graduates to understand China; bolster career and entrepreneurship counseling; and actively mobilize and attract them to join various campus organizations.

Representatives from departments and schools also shared how they improved graduate education. More than 8000 people participated in this conference online or offline.

This conference summarized the results of various special events held across a month’s worth of seminars, and laid the tone for the future reform of Tsinghua University's graduate education.

Writer: Long Xinli, Anna Mao, Liu Shutian

Editer: John Olbrich, John Paul Grima, Natalie Meyer