David Goodman: a university president's Chinese connections
(english.jsjyt.gov.cn) Updated：2018-12-24
Campus scene of the Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University [Photo/jschina.com.cn]
The diversified and vibrant atmosphere at Chinese college campuses has also comforted the professor's heart.
"There were only about 800,000 college students in China in 1978, but this number has surged to 3.7 million," he said.
In the face of great changes taking place in the country, Goodman thought Chinese students have as always maintained positive attitude towards studying.
"That's why I want to continue my teaching at Chinese campuses."
He spoke highly of the open and encouraging climate at XJTLU, regarding it "more than a Chinese school, but an international school on the Chinese land".
A joint effort of the Xi'an Jiaotong University and the University of Liverpool, XJTLU was founded in 2006 with over 700 teachers from some 50 countries and regions across the world. Delivering all the classes in English is one of the most eye-catching features of XJTLU.
"We have focused on curriculum and faculty building in the first decade, we will work hard to create a welcoming environment for scientific research and turn more ideas into practical production," Goodman said.
The school joined hands with Taicang government in February to set up a branch campus, aiming to train professionals in fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. It also forged connection with Haier Group and Eolane China in August, seeking for new possibilities of college-enterprises cooperation.
