China’s First Lady hosts Massey, Weta arts delegation
China’s First Lady, Madame Peng Liyuan, wants stronger ties between China, Massey University and Weta Workhop following
a reception she hosted in Beijing.
Chancellor Chris Kelly, Vice-Chancellor Steve Maharey, College of Creative Arts Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Claire
Robinson and senior university staff members have been joined in China this week by Weta creative director Sir Richard
Taylor and several Weta staff, at the invitation of Madame Peng and the People’s Liberation Arts Academy. They are there
to showcase the University and Weta’s innovation across the arts spectrum as well as to experience and learn about
Chinese culture and innovation.
The reception, preceded by formal talks at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, was attended by a Chinese vice-minister of
education and senior defence staff from the People’s Liberation Army.
Madame Peng emphasised the importance China and New Zealand place on education and the valuable role that Massey and
Weta Workshop have in developing the next generation of leaders. She encouraged further exchanges between China, Massey
and Weta Workshop.
She said the honorary doctorate conferred on her by the University in November when she visited the College of Creative
Arts was not only a personal honour but sent a message of goodwill from Massey to the people of China. Having
face-to-face exchanges with Massey Wellington students who had exhibited their works had been wonderful, she said.
Earlier in the day, the delegation was warmly hosted at the People’s Liberation Army Arts Academy, of which Madame Peng
is president. The academy showcased the talent of its staff and students in the performing and creative arts through a
series of high-quality performances and exhibitions. Mr Maharey and Professor Robinson gave presentations about Massey
and discussed opportunies for collaboration with academy leaders.
At a separate event, Mr Maharey with Sir Richard and New Zealand Ambassador to China John McKinnon jointly hosted a
reception for friends of Massey and Weta Workshop at the Ambassador’s Residence in Beijing. Senior university,
government and recruitment partners and senior film industry executives attended.
The highlight of the evening was the signing of an agreement between Massey and the China Scholarship Council under
which the first group of more than 30 university lecturers from western China will arrive in Manawatū later this month
for a three-month professional development programme on teaching agriculture.
China Scholarship Council secretary-general Liu Jinghui welcomed the agreement and encouraged the development of further
innovative collaborations with Massey.
Leading media outlets, including Xinhua, China Daily and CCTV7, have conducted interviews and provided coverage of the
delegation’s visit.
ENDS