Former UN Under-Secretary-General Fabrizio Hochschild-Drummond Visits Lanzhou University for Academic Exchange

On May 12–13, Fabrizio Hochschild-Drummond, former UN Under-Secretary-General, Fellow at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, and Senior Fellow at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs, visited Lanzhou University for in-depth discussions with faculty and students on topics such as the UN’s development achievements, current global challenges, and talent cultivation for international organizations.

Lecture in Progress

On the morning of May 12, the first keynote lecture, titled “The Historical Achievements and Current Challenges of the United Nations”, was held at the Lecture Hall of the Student Activity Center on Lanzhou University’s Chengguan Campus. Drawing on his extensive experience working in international organizations, Fabrizio Hochschild-Drummond systematically reviewed the UN’s 80-year history of development. He elaborated on its organizational structure and contributions to global governance, enriching the audience’s understanding.

He emphasized that, in the face of global challenges such as climate change, the engagement of the younger generation is crucial. Their international perspectives and capacity for action can drive cooperation across nations. After the lecture, he held an open discussion with students and faculty, encouraging Chinese youth to engage in international affairs and prepare themselves for careers in international organizations.

On the morning of May 13, Fabrizio Hochschild-Drummond delivered another lecture at Lanzhou University’s Yuzhong Campus under the theme “What Kind of Talent Do International Organizations Need? – Reconstruction of Competency Map and Innovation in Education Paradigm”. Drawing from his 35 years of experience at the UN, he shared insights on the qualifications and application strategies required by international organizations, highlighting the importance of English proficiency and cross-cultural competence. During the Q&A session, he responded to questions on how Chinese youth can pursue careers in international organizations, encouraging students to sharpen their professional skills and seize opportunities to enhance their global competitiveness.

Lecture in Progress

This visit created a valuable dialogue platform for the Lanzhou University community to engage with an expert from an international organization, inspiring students’ enthusiasm for participating in global governance. The Office of International Cooperation and Exchange at Lanzhou University expressed its intention to further strengthen cooperation with international organizations to cultivate more globally competent talent.(Text/Photo by Wu Hailan)