Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), has received an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Liverpool.
The award recognises his success in leading XJTLU – an innovative partnership between the University of Liverpool and Jiaotong University in China – and his significant contributions to improving global higher education. The honour also marks the upcoming 20th anniversary of the joint venture. Find more about the anniversary here.
The Fellowship was conferred during graduation ceremonies at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, where 2500 graduates celebrated their achievements. Professor Xi also accepted a commemorative gift, on behalf of XJTLU, during the event.
University of Liverpool Vice-Chancellor Professor Tim Jones said: “2026 marks 20 years since the foundation of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University. Under Professor Xi’s guidance, XJTLU has grown into an institution with a strong reputation for excellence in both education and research and, as we approach this milestone, we are delighted to recognise his achievements.
“Professor Xi exemplifies distinguished leadership, international distinction, and a strong commitment to the University of Liverpool’s mission and reputation. This honour reflects his pivotal role in building a globally respected institution that embodies the mission and ambitions of both universities.”
During his visit, Professor Xi met students on the flagship 2+2 programme, which enables learners to study at both XJTLU and the University of Liverpool. He toured the Liverpool School of Architecture’s new extension, which is currently under construction, and also reunited with University of Liverpool colleagues who played an integral role in the establishment of XJTLU including former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Drummond Bone, Professor Kelvin Everest, and Professor Michael Fang.
Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) said: “Receiving this honorary fellowship is deeply meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. It represents the work we’ve done at XJTLU and symbolises the enduring partnership and shared vision between our two great institutions.
“My time spent in Liverpool has been truly inspiring. Seeing how our graduates are making their mark in the world with confidence and purpose fills me with pride. While in Liverpool I was also able to reconnect with colleagues who stood with us at the very beginning of XJTLU’s journey. It has been both nostalgic and energising.
“Celebrating XJTLU’s 20th anniversary is a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and, more importantly, to look forward to where we’re heading. As we enter our third decade, I’m confident that XJTLU will continue to shape the future with wisdom and courage, staying true to our motto of ‘Light and Wings’: empowering every student to forge their wings with the light of wisdom and take flight in the world. The journey of exploration continues, and the best is yet to come.”
About Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU)
Founded in 2006 as a partnership between the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University, XJTLU has become one of China’s most respected international universities.
- Student growth: From admitting 730 students in autumn 2008, XJTLU now has around 25,000 students, with ambitions to grow to 35,000.
- Innovation in education: In 2022, XJTLU launched the Entrepreneur College in Taicang, introducing Professor Xi’s pioneering “syntegrative” education model that embeds industry placements into the curriculum.
- Global mobility: The new Taicang 2+1+1 programme, launched in 2024, allows students to spend their third year in Liverpool. This complements the long-standing 2+2 programme and the University of Liverpool’s Year in China initiative.
- Year in China: This distinctive programme enables University of Liverpool students to broaden their academic experience by extending their degree and studying at XJTLU. Starting in 2016, more than 380 students, across 24 University departments have participated.
Through these programmes, University of Liverpool degrees have been delivered transnationally since 2006, creating pathways for thousands of graduates to pursue further study and careers worldwide.
About Professor Youmin Xi
Professor Xi earned his PhD in Management Engineering in 1987 – the first person in mainland China to do so. His academic career spans strategic management, decision-making, organisational behaviour, and educational innovation.
A key achievement under his leadership is the creation of the Taicang Entrepreneur College, a 0.33-million-square-metre hub for teaching, research, and industry collaboration. Professor Xi was responsible for its conception and delivery, designed with entrepreneurialism, interdisciplinarity, industry engagement, community, and innovation at its core.
The partnership he has nurtured has delivered significant benefits for the University of Liverpool, including joint research, alumni networks, and enhanced global visibility. Over 15,000 students have graduated through the 2+2 programme alone, strengthening Liverpool’s international profile in China and beyond.