LONDON, Dec. 13 (Xinhua) -- China's research and higher education sector has seen remarkable progress, with Chinese universities emerging as important partners for international higher education institutions, Michael Spence, president and provost of University College London (UCL), said in an interview with Xinhua on Friday.
Spence made the remarks after attending an international academic forum in Beijing, noting that China has played an important role in his academic career. He said the rapid development of China's research and education sector has drawn growing global attention, as many countries look to China's experience when considering how to advance their own higher education systems.
Reflecting on the event, Spence said he moderated a discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa, describing the exchanges among Chinese universities, African universities and businesses as highly constructive. "It was terrific to watch the exchanges," he said.
On academic collaboration with China, Spence said cooperation between UCL and Chinese partners spans nearly all research fields. UCL is actively engaged with Chinese universities across a wide range of disciplines, with few areas untouched by joint research or academic exchange.
Spence also highlighted the growing role of AI in research, noting that while AI encompasses many different applications, it is set to become increasingly integral to future research across disciplines.
UCL has one of the largest populations of Chinese students in Britain, Spence said, describing them as highly talented and deeply involved in campus life, contributing actively to the university community.
Looking ahead, Spence said UCL sees broad prospects for further collaboration with Chinese universities. "There are all sorts of collaborations ... on the horizon, and the future is a future of partnership and engagement," he added.
