29 February: The Party Secretary of Ningbo, Zheng Shanjie, visited the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) and inspected the University’s work on epidemic prevention and control. He visited the Trent Building, the University canteen and Liberal Arts Hotel learning of the prevention measures being taken and the plans being prepared for the return of students and staff particularly from overseas, highly commending UNNC’s reaction and performance during this period.

Responding to the new coronavirus outbreak, UNNC established a crisis management team comprising Chinese and international management board members, led jointly by Party Secretary Ying Xiong and Provost Nick Miles. Such arrangements reflect the importance the University places on ensuring implementation of the prevention and control measures and safety of students and staff.

“We hold a meeting every morning at 10 to communicate what’s happening, discuss the next steps, and keep connected with our staff, students, their parents and the local government,” Nick Miles introduced the epidemic control measures on campus to Zheng Shanjie. “Communication is really important.” During this period, UNNC has been delivering official updates in both Chinese and English, and responding to the needs and concerns of students and staff.

Zheng Shanjie gave high affirmation when hearing this: "You do an excellent job! The University is not closed; instead, it is part of society and keeping in full communication with it." As Ningbo gradually resumes normal operation, he inquired about the University’s arrangement on resuming teaching.

According to Nick Miles, the University is ready to resume education next Monday via online teaching; the focus over the next few weeks will be on ensuring the quality of education delivered to the students while planning for the safe return of students and staff from around the globe. The University is cooperating closely with local government who are helping to further refine the plan to minimise worries and secure the safe and healthy return of students and academics.

Zheng Shanjie pointed out UNNC has many connections throughout China and other parts of the world and therefore he said the local government would work closely with the University to provide customized services to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.

Xu Yafen, Chair of UNNC Board, Nick Miles, Provost of UNNC, Ying Xiong, Party Secretary of UNNC, and other core members of the University’s epidemic prevention and control team accompanied Zheng Shanjie during his visit introducing various aspects of work on campus.