Danish University Underway in China

A far greater exchange of Danish and Chinese researchers and elite students is to take place – and preferably in close interaction with the business sector. At the same time, a Danish university in China might be underway.

These are some of the aspects in the China strategy announced by Helge Sander, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, at a press meeting today in Copenhagen.

The strategy, which is a direct follow-up on the Minister's visit to China last autumn, aims to strengthen collaboration between Denmark and China within the area of research, university education and innovation.

– In recent years, China has invested massively in research and education and has overtaken Europe in a number of fields. So I am pleased that Denmark is now planning a China strategy with clear priorities and initiatives for the entire knowledge area, says Science Minister Helge Sander.

The plan deals with ten existing schemes and presents nine new initiatives, including:

• The establishment of a Danish university in China, for instance as a consortium of Danish universities, enterprises and approved technological service institutes. Initially, a fact-finding study will be launched this spring.
• Special scholarships for talented Chinese university students, for instance by extending the existing schemes to include students outside Europe. 
• Establishing trainee placements and internships for elite students both in Denmark and in China – through a close dialogue with universities and the business sector.
• Inviting more Chinese top researchers to Denmark and supporting Danish research in China. There are plans for PhD scholarships and post docs for young Chinese students and special China scholarships for Danish researchers.

– The strategy contains a number of initiatives that can be launched at once and also several long-term projects for which more planning is needed. But the important thing is that Danish researchers, knowledge institutions and enterprises will now have the best opportunities to strengthen collaboration with China, says Helge Sander.

Science Minister Helge Sander can be contacted via Communications Manager Niels Hovmand on phone +45 33 92 97 37 or mobile +45 40 82 89 58.