Galway forges new link with China

Date Published: 17-Jun-2010

By Antoinette Giblin

A ‘SISTER city relationship’ between Galway and the Chinese city of Qinedao could provide a vital link to our economy, education, tourism and culture according to Mayor Declan McDonnell who at the weekend welcomed Qinedao Mayor Xia (Shah) and a group of officials to the city.

As part of the visit, a formal memorandum of agreement was signed between the Ocean University of China (OUC), Qingdao and NUI Galway which is aimed to enhance co-operation and exchange between the two universities.

The agreement with NUI Galway’s Martin Ryan Marine Science Institute will pave the way for student and faculty exchange and research collaboration with Ocean University which has 20,000 students and is renowned specifically for its disciplines in oceanography and fisheries.

Speaking at the event, President of NUI Galway, Dr James J. Browne, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for NUI Galway’s Martin Ryan Marine Science Institute to collaborate with such a prestigious Chinese University. We look forward to welcoming their students and providing our own students with the opportunity to spend time on OUC’s campus”.

Mayor McDonnell welcomed the agreement which he stated has kickstarted the process of working toward a sister city relationship.

An influx of such international students, Mayor McDonnell added, would also provide a welcome boost to the economy with fees, living and spending expenses estimated at €27,000 per student per year.

“For example, last December, a different agreement was signed between GMIT and a college in another Chinese city. It estimated that bringing 100 students here could be worth €2.7 million to the economy and if they come and study for a three or four year degree programmes, that is substantial,” the Mayor remarked.

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune