On April 23, 2011, Professor Hu Angang, Director of the Center for China Studies (CCS) at the School of Public Policy and Management, delivered an engaging lecture on Tsinghua University’s illustrious history and contributions to China’s development on the occasion of the Tsinghua Centennial Celebration. He especially emphasized the importance of universities to produce positive externalities, increased and diverse human capital, and contributions to the nation and to the world.

The packed audience in Room 321 included SPPM alumni from the MID classes of 2008 and 2009; IMPA Class of 2009, current MID and IMPA students, students from the School of Law, Chinese Language Program, and the International Relations Department.

Prof. Hu remarked upon Tsinghua’s many contributions since the opening-up era in the fields of science, technology and government, especially Tsinghua’s contributions in technological innovation and the training of the next generation of Chinese expert personnel.  Prof. Hu spoke of the “Tsinghua style,” the university motto of which is: “Action is better than words.” Audience members were active and raised questions such as the difference between higher education in developed and developing countries and the ties between Chinese and African universities.

SPPM Dean XUE Lan made a surprise appearance during the lecture event, making brief remarks as well as answering audience questions. The event ended on a high note with students and alumni mingling over the celebratory day.