The University of Newcastle, Australia

Prominent Chinese business leader and philanthropist, Mr Zhang Shi Jie, has been awarded one of education's highest honours by the University of Newcastle, Australia.

Founder and Chairman of the JLL Enterprise Group, Mr Zhang has been awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of the University for his leadership in the international education sector.

University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nicholas Saunders, said the University of Newcastle was fortunate to work in partnership with Mr Zhang.

"Mr Zhang's support for the University of Newcastle has been exemplary," Professor Saunders said. "He has worked tirelessly to promote Australia and our University to Chinese students and their families."

Beginning his endeavours in Beijing in 1999, Mr Zhang's leadership has positioned the JLL Enterprise Group to become China's pre-eminent international education company and a global education facilitator for thousands of Chinese students.

Today, JLL employs over 1,000 people, is a top 500 Enterprise in China and enjoys a respected and successful relationship with over 1000 education institutions in 23 countries.

In addition to establishing JLL, Mr Zhang has provided philanthropic support for a range of initiatives including helping students in urgent financial need and funding the refurbishment of classrooms in isolated areas.

He has also raised funds and sourced goods for people affected by natural disasters including the earthquake in Sichuan Province in May 2008.

"Mr Zhang is a man of great wisdom, honour and generosity. The University of Newcastle is very fortunate to have a strong and lasting association with a man of such achievement," Professor Saunders said.

Mr Zhang Shi Jie was admitted to the degree of Doctor of the University, honoris causa, at a special ceremony in Beijing on 10 October 2009.