The Rector of the University, accepted an invitation to visit Xiamen University for the renewal of the Confucius Institute Agreement. Forming part of the delegation were Pro Rector for Internationalisation and Quality Assurance , Confucius Institute Co-Director and , Director, International Office. H.E Mr John Busuttil, Ambassador of Malta in China accompanied the delegation on their visit to Xiamen University.
Established in 2009, the at the University of Malta celebrated its 15th Anniversary in 2024. The renewal of the agreement, signed at Xiamen University on 15 April will oversee the continuation of the CI operations at the UM for a further period of 5 years.
Chairman of Xiamen University Prof. Zhang Rong presided over the signing ceremony in the presence of other senior leaders of Xiamen University and the Chinese Co-Director of the UM Confucius Institute Prof. Nie Aixia.
In his opening address the Rector focused on the role of the Confucius Institute and the success it has registered over its brief history.
He made reference to the thriving undergraduate programme in Chinese—offered through the University of Malta’s with the crucial support of the Confucius Institute—as well as twelve teaching points across government, independent, and church schools.
He remarked that the Institute’s central mission—to bring people together through the study of Chinese language, history, and culture—takes on even greater importance as the world navigates increasingly complex geopolitical issues with far-reaching global consequences.
In view of these challenges, the Institute’s work can make significant contributions to promoting dialogue and mutual understanding between China and Malta, while equipping younger generations with the language skills and intercultural competencies necessary to facilitate international cooperation.
He noted that the renewal of this agreement, comes at a relatively critical juncture, and the University looks forward to the Institute’s further growth and success. Rector expressed appreciation for the untiring efforts of the current and past Co-Directors, the teachers, the volunteers and all the staff and the extended support network from both sides.
Rector also expressed enthusiasm towards the renewed interest to give another boost to the collaborative efforts beyond the CI. Renewed efforts towards rekindling interest and re-starting exchanges that involve students and staff in different areas of study are positive and should lead to even wider engagement between the UM and Xiamen University.
