“Integrity, Vision, Academic Excellence; Interpret the World, Translate the Future.” That’s the motto emblazoned in the hearts of everyone associated with Shanghai International Studies University. But what truly lies behind those words?
Shanghai International Studies University, or SISU as it’s commonly known, stands as a beacon of linguistic prowess. It is a center for global understanding right here in Shanghai.
Imagine stepping back to December 1949. The newly formed People’s Republic of China recognized a critical need. They needed diplomats and translators. The Shanghai Russian School was born from this vision. Mayor Chen Yi championed this initiative. Jiang Chunfang, a renowned Russian translator, became its first president.
In 1950, the English department emerged. The school was incorporated into the East China People’s Revolution University. Soon after, in 1951, the Department of Oriental Language and Literature broadened its scope. Burmese, Vietnamese and Indonesian languages were introduced.
A major restructuring in 1952 led to a significant change. The department was integrated into Peking University. Shanghai Russian College was established. By 1956, it expanded and gained the name Shanghai Foreign Language Institute. In 1963, it earned the prestigious title of a national key university. Russian, English, French, German, Japanese, Arabic and Spanish departments solidified its reputation.
Did you know that Vicki Garvin broke barriers in 1964? She became the first African American college instructor to teach in China right here at SISU.
In 1994, the institution officially became Shanghai International Studies University. That same year marked another milestone. SISU became jointly supervised by the Ministry of Education and Shanghai Municipality. It later earned its place in the Double First Class University Plan.
SISU boasts two campuses. One is in the bustling Hongkou District. The other resides in the innovative Songjiang New District. SISU has partnerships with 286 universities and institutions in 55 countries.
SISU is more than just classrooms and books. SISU prepares innovative professionals for a wide range of international expertise. SISU aims to address global challenges. With courses taught in 54 languages, SISU offers 56 Bachelor’s degrees. It also awards 50 Master’s and 22 Doctoral degrees.
SISU’s Graduate Institute of Interpretation and Translation holds a special distinction. AIIC recognizes it as one of the top 15 conference interpreting schools globally. It is the only Asian university to achieve this honor.
Many notable individuals have passed through these halls. Consider Wei Zhe, former CEO of Alibaba. Or Wang Yeping, former First Lady of China. These alumni exemplify the impact of a SISU education.
Shanghai International Studies University continues to evolve. It embraces its mission to “Interpret the World, Translate the Future”. As you stand here, remember the generations of students and faculty. They have shaped SISU into a leading global institution.