The University of Birmingham and the Shanghai YZL Foundation have launched a new partnership aimed at expanding educational and career opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds while fostering closer educational ties between China and the United Kingdom.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding in Shanghai on June 4, establishing the "Leading for Good: Bridging China and the UK" initiative.

Under the partnership, an outstanding student selected through the YZL Foundation's network will receive a fully funded postgraduate scholarship each year to study at the University of Birmingham. The program will also provide internship opportunities in China for the university's current students and recent graduates, helping them gain professional experience and enhance their employability.

Internship placements will be available across a range of sectors, including nonprofit organizations, technology, finance, cultural and creative industries, manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.

Professor Adam Tickell, vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Birmingham, said the initiative reflects the university's commitment to widening access to education and supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

"As a global top-100 university, we are committed to opening doors for talented students from all backgrounds," Tickell said. "This partnership strengthens our ability to support students in both China and the UK, helping them access high-quality education and meaningful career opportunities."

The initiative was inspired by the vision of Zhang Shenshou, a University of Birmingham alumnus and founder of the Shanghai YZL Foundation, which was established in 2023 to improve educational access and career development opportunities for underprivileged students.

"We hope to bring together high-quality corporate resources and professional mentorship to broaden educational pathways and empower young people," Zhang said. "By combining the foundation's network with the University of Birmingham's academic strengths and global influence, we aim to cultivate youth leadership, foster social responsibility and create lasting social value."

Beyond supporting individual students, the program is expected to promote collaboration between China and the UK in education, industry and philanthropy, while equipping participants with the skills and experience needed to contribute to their communities and address global challenges.