From pioneer to future leaders

The students visited the gardens of the Confucius Institute, where a statue of Huang Kuan - known as Dr Wong Fun - commemorates his achievement in 1855. His journey from Edinburgh to a pioneering medical career in China continues to resonate today, more than 170 years on.

Wong Fun studied at the University of Edinburgh after first graduating in literature in the United States, later excelling in medicine and going on to become a leading surgeon and educator in China. His legacy reflects a long-standing exchange of knowledge and education between China and Edinburgh.

The visit highlighted how today’s students are part of this continuing legacy. During a workshop, students reflected on their experiences at ZJE, sharing stories of personal and academic growth.

Several described gaining confidence, learning to embrace uncertainty, and taking initiative in their studies and laboratory work. Others spoke about overcoming fear of failure and becoming more open to new challenges, including developing unexpected skills such as scientific illustration.

These experiences demonstrate the development of adaptable, confident graduates prepared to take on future challenges. Like Wong Fun before them, they are building the skills and mindset needed to become the next generation of leaders in biomedical science.