A familiar face will be returning to Lancaster University’s Confucius Institute this week in the role of Interim Director.

The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences has announced that Dr Derek Hird, whose first post at Lancaster University was Deputy Director of the Confucius Institute (CI), will take up the role from today.

The Confucius Institute promotes the study of Chinese language and culture, fostering cultural understanding and exchange between China and the University.

Dr Hird, who has also served as Head of the University’s Department of Languages and Culture (DeLC) and, currently, as Head of the new School of Global Affairs, said he was delighted to be taking on the CI role.

“During my tenure as Head of DeLC and, latterly, as Head of School of Global Affairs, I have maintained close and supportive links with the CI,” added Dr Hird, who will continue as Head of the School of Global Affairs until a new Head of School is appointed and takes up the role.

“As a result, I know the CI team well and have witnessed the inspiring dedication and commitment they bring to their work.”

The CI offers Mandarin language classes and a variety of cultural activities to students and staff, the local community, and schools and businesses across the North West.

Dr Hird said: “I very much look forward to working with the CI team to enhance Lancaster University's reputation as a centre of excellence in Chinese language education and pedagogy, to further the impact of the CI's many cultural activities locally and regionally, and, at all times, to enable the CI to add value to the strategic priorities of FASS and the University.”

He added that in July the Institute would host, for the second time, the British Chinese Language Teaching Society’s annual conference, with this year’s theme being ‘Innovation and Sustainable Development of International Chinese Education’.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global (Digital, International, Sustainability) Professor Simon Guy said: “I’m delighted that Derek Hird will be returning as the Interim Director to continue the successful work our brilliant CI team undertakes on language and culture in Lancaster, Lancashire and beyond.

“There has never been a more important time to build inter-cultural understanding in our world and I know Derek will bring his considerable experience to the work of the CI in building bridges between China, the University, and our regional communities.”

And, adding his congratulations to Dr Hird on his appointment, the Executive Dean of the Faculty Professor Edward Simpson said: “Derek brings new passion and enthusiasm to the Confucius Institute.

“The work undertaken on language teaching and cultural understanding is vitally important. The CI builds important bridges between China and Lancaster University and between the University and surrounding communities.”