The Rhodes Trust is excited to announce the launch of the Rhodes Scholarships for China. For the first time, mainland Chinese citizens will have the opportunity to be awarded Rhodes Scholarships in China to study at Oxford University. The expansion into China marks a historic moment for the Rhodes Trust, and further strengthens the opportunity for broader global collaboration and understanding. The launch will be celebrated with a gala dinner this evening which will be attended by 250 distinguished guests.
The first cohort of Chinese Rhodes Scholars will be selected in 2015 and join the class of 2016 for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Funded by donors from mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as the University of Oxford, the Rhodes Scholarship for China will cover all University and College fees, a personal stipend for room and board, as well as health insurance and travel. The total value of the award will be more than £50,000 per annum.
Sir John Hood, Chairman of the Rhodes Trust, said: “The Rhodes Trust is delighted to be announcing the launch of the Rhodes Scholarships for China. This expansion allows us to further achieve our goal of promoting collaboration among Scholars from across the globe. The Rhodes Scholarships are designed to inspire generations of young leaders, have a profound impact on their lives and, through their leadership, on communities and societies throughout the world.”
Charles Conn, Warden of Rhodes House, said: “China has an important international role to play in the 21st century, and we wish to reflect that in the global footprint of the Rhodes Scholarships. The new Chinese Rhodes Scholars will contribute significantly through sharing their skills, knowledge and energy to the class cohort and we look forward to welcoming them to Rhodes House.”
The Rhodes Scholarships for China further strengthens the links between China and the University of Oxford. The University’s relationship with China dates back to the 17th century and continues to flourish today. There are currently 907 Chinese students enrolled at Oxford, making it the second-largest group of international students, after the USA.
Andrew Hamilton, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, said: “For over a century, the Rhodes Trust has played an integral part in the life of the University, and it is hard to imagine one existing without the other. I am absolutely delighted that there will now be Rhodes Scholarships for China, reinforcing the strong link between China and the University of Oxford.”
Meijie (MJ) Tang, Rhodes China Program Director said: “China is increasingly internationally focused and has so much innovation and creativity to offer. The Rhodes Scholarships have produced some of the world’s most prominent leaders in business, politics, the arts and education. The Rhodes Scholarships for China will allow future generations of mainland Chinese students to play a valuable contributing role within the prestigious Rhodes community at Oxford University.”
The Rhodes Scholarships for China are generously supported by the Li Ka Shing Foundation and other donors.