The ‘China-Ireland Higher Education Forum’ was attended by more than 100 delegates from universities in both countries and consisted of conference speeches, social networking and a “Study in China” exhibition that included visits to University College Dublin and Trinity College.

“The possibility of gaining valuable post-study work experience makes Ireland a very compelling option for Chinese students”

CEAIE secretary general Zhao Lingshan said participants reached a better understanding of each other through exchanges of views, with some demonstrating strong interest in cooperation or studying in China.

Zhao added that the cooperation between the Chinese and Irish higher education institutions has shown “unprecedented momentum in recent years”.

“Many universities in China and Ireland have launched cooperative university-running programs,” he said, adding that the diverse bilateral education exchanges, student mobility and scientific research cooperation have become one of the most productive cooperation areas between China and Ireland.

The forum was the largest of its kind held between Ireland and China, said Barry O’Driscoll, senior education adviser with Enterprise Ireland.

Earlier in March 2018, CEAIE deputy secretary-general Shen Xuesong witnessed the signing of three MoUs between Chinese and Irish universities together with Irish minister for foreign affairs and trade, Simon Coveney TD.

“I am delighted to support Enterprise Ireland’s export-focussed activities in China,” Coveney said.

“As part of this visit, the Enterprise Ireland Education in Ireland program has brought 10 Irish higher education institutions closer to their Chinese partners.

“Ireland’s HEIs are at the forefront of research and… the possibility of gaining valuable post-study work experience makes Ireland a very compelling option for Chinese students.”