On 20 May, Fabrizio Hochschild Drummond, former Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, visited the Communication University of Zhejiang (CUZ). President Wei Lu and Vice-President Yao Zheng met with the distinguished guest and held in-depth discussions on topics such as the cultivation of young talent for international organizations, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, and media convergence.
Zhang Ning, Vice-President of the China Society for Educational Development Strategies (CSEDS) and Chairman of its International Competency Development Committee, accompanied Mr Hochschild Drummond. Key personnel from CUZ’s International Exchange and Cooperation Division also attended the meeting.
President Wei Lu gave a comprehensive overview of the university’s progress in discipline development, research innovation, international collaboration, and student internships with international organizations. He also introduced the latest developments in China’s micro-short drama industry, highlighting emerging technologies and future trends in the media sector. He emphasised CUZ’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with international organizations to create more practical opportunities for students and to cultivate high-calibre, internationally competent talent.
Vice-President Yao Zheng accompanied Mr. Hochschild Drummond on a visit to the University History Museum and hosted a keynote lecture titled "Talent Cultivation for Career Development in International Organizations". In his speech, Yao reaffirmed CUZ’s mission as a media-focused university committed to nurturing globally competitive graduates. He encouraged students to engage with global issues, participate in international dialogue, and amplify China’s voice on the world stage.
During his visit, Mr. Hochschild Drummond praised CUZ’s academic achievements and engaged in fruitful discussions on the role of AI in higher education and the future of media integration in Chinese universities.
In his keynote address, Mr. Hochschild Drummond drew upon his more than 30 years of experience in international affairs. He underlined the importance of developing global talent capable of contributing to international governance. As the world faces pressing challenges—such as climate change, public health crises, and digital security—international organizations are playing a vital role in shaping global responses. He called on universities to innovate in the way they prepare young people for these roles, by integrating Chinese wisdom and perspectives into the international system and expanding practical training opportunities for students.
The lecture concluded with an interactive Q&A session. Students posed questions on current global affairs and recent transformations in international organizations. Mr. Hochschild Drummond responded with insightful perspectives and encouraged young scholars to adopt an open, forward-thinking mindset and actively pursue internships with international institutions.
Before the formal meetings, Mr. Hochschild Drummond also visited China Research Center for Radio and Television Arts (China Golden Eagle Research Center for Television Arts) and the CUZ University History Museum.
About Fabrizio Hochschild Drummond
Mr. Hochschild Drummond is currently a researcher at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, Co-Chair of the Advisory Board of the United Nations Centre for Sustainable Development Goals and Leadership Development, and Senior Advisor to the International Competency Development Committee of the Chinese Society for Educational Development Strategies. He previously served as Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and has held multiple senior posts throughout his extensive UN career.
