Doctor of the University

Dr Zhang Shi Jie is a prominent Chinese business leader and philanthropist renowned for his contributions to education and for his humanitarian endeavours.

Dr Zhang is the Chairman of JJL Enterprises Group - China’s pre-eminent international education company and a global education facilitator for thousands of Chinese students.

JJL is a top 500 Enterprise in China and enjoys a respected and successful relationship with over 1000 education institutions in 23 countries. In Australia, JJL has been a partner of the University of Newcastle since 2002. Over that time, Dr Zhang has worked tirelessly to promote Australia and the University of Newcastle to Chinese students.

Dr Zhang has provided philanthropic support for a range of initiatives including helping students in urgent financial need, funding the refurbishment of classrooms in isolated areas and establishing the Shijie Scholarship to encourage young people to travel abroad. He has also raised funds and sourced goods for people affected by natural disasters including the earthquake in Sichuan Province in May 2008.

In recognition of his exemplary service to education, in 2009 the University of Newcastle awarded Mr Zhang one of education’s highest honours – the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.