Victoria Business Confucius Institute opens

Victoria University’s engagement with China was celebrated at the launch of its Victoria Business Confucius Institute (VBCI) on 19 May.

One of the few Confucius Institutes globally to be focused on business, the VBCI joins a network of more than 500 Confucius Institutes, which promote and disseminate Chinese language and culture around the world.

The VBCI was jointly established by VU and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) to strengthen VU's relationship with China.

It will offer Chinese business culture and business language courses, and facilitate Chinese and cross-cultural events in a wide range of local community settings.

Guests received a warm welcome, as Professor Colin Clark, Dean of College of Business opened the launch in Mandarin.

Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Dawkins said the Institute supports VU’s strategic goal to develop students and courses through our global network of industry partners, and enhances our focus on international engagement.

“VBCI is an important part of VU’s strategic goal to be the University of Opportunity and Success, playing a leadership role in engaging with industry and community both locally and internationally.”

VBCI will provide a distinctive contribution to Chinese business and culture in Australia, and foster harmonised business relationships between the two countries.”

President of UIBE Professor Shi Jianjun noted the important timing of the launch as VU marks its centenary, and how the Institute will contribute to global business relationships.

“VU is a university with the perfect melding of historical legacy and modern educational concepts. I hope we can make great contribution to building an economic bridge through VBCI and I am sure that it will play an important role in the business and trade activities between Australia and China.”

As well as dignitaries from VU and the Chinese community speaking and joining a panel discussion, the keynote speech entitled Industrial Cooperation Opportunities in China's Belt and Road Initiative (PDF, 1 MB) was delivered by Dr Xiang Junyong, deputy director of the cooperative research department of Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University.

Chancellor Mr George Pappas closed the event, noting the significance of the Institute in further cementing our relationship with China; and the importance of trading in the currencies of creativity, innovation and education for our collective futures.

Other presenters included:

• Mr Song Yumin, Chinese Consulate-General in Melbourne;
• Ms Judith Graley MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier;
• Professor Min Guo, School of Finance, University of International Business and Economics;
• Dr Craig Emerson, Adjunct Professor at Victoria University and former Minister for Trade;
• Mr Peng Li, General Manager, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd Melbourne;
• Professor Peter Sheehan, Professional Fellow, Victoria Institute of Economic Studies.