Preparatory Meeting for the UK Overseas Dental Licensing Examination Centre

On January 8, 2025, the preparatory meeting for the UK Overseas Centre of the National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases – Royal College of Surgeons of England Dental Licensing Examination Centre was successfully held at the Pudong Science and Education Park of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Stomatology.

Distinguished guests in attendance included:

• Mr. Wang Yongli, Former Secretary-General of the China Education Association for International Exchange and former Minister-Counsellor of Education at the Chinese Embassy in the UK

• Mr. Ma Yanbin, Party Secretary of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Stomatology and Director of the National Center for Stomatology (Shanghai)

• Dr. Charlotte Eckhardt, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons of England

• Ms. Fatima Bulbulia, Director of Education, Faculty of Dental Surgery, RCS England

• Ms. Olivia Bo, CEO of InterGreat Education Group, authorised representative of RCS England

• Dr. Xu Yuanjin, Vice President of Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital

• Dr. Yang Chi, Vice Dean of SJTU School of Stomatology and Director of the National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases

• Dr. Wang Lizhen, Vice Dean of SJTU School of Stomatology

The meeting was hosted by Dr. Sun Jian, Vice Dean of the School.

Mr. Ma Yanbin warmly welcomed the UK delegation and emphasised that the establishment of the overseas centre is a major milestone in China-UK oral health collaboration, creating opportunities in talent development and research that will drive global progress in the field.

Mr. Wang Yongli reflected on the deep-rooted collaboration between China and the UK in education, stating that the centre will inject new momentum into innovation and internationalisation in dental education.

Dr. Charlotte Eckhardt shared the Royal College’s rich history and achievements, expressing eagerness to partner with the Chinese center in developing world-class dental professionals.

Dr. Yang Chi, on behalf of Academician Zhang Zhiyuan, presented the current status and future of China’s dental field, expressing hope that the centre will bring advanced international teaching models to China and elevate scientific and clinical standards.

Both parties signed a Letter of Gratitude and Intent for Cooperation, witnessed by all dignitaries.

Following presentations from Dr. Yang, Dr. Eckhardt, and Dr. Wang Lizhen, both sides discussed details of the examination structure, examiner training, and overall planning for the centre.

The UK delegation toured the Pudong campus to gain insights into the facilities and capabilities of the SJTU School of Stomatology, laying a strong foundation for future collaboration. The event concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolising growing friendship and cooperation.

In alignment with China’s “Healthy Oral Action Plan (2019–2025)” by the National Health Commission, which promotes international dental collaboration and integration of global resources, the establishment of a training and certification hub like this centre holds great significance for improving service quality and expanding international influence.

Founded in 1843, the Royal College of Surgeons of England is one of the world’s most prestigious surgical training institutions, leading a group that includes the Royal Colleges of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Ireland. It not only provides professional qualifications but also sets educational standards and supports research.

The National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases (based at Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital), established in 2016 by multiple top-level national agencies, leverages hospital resources to create a world-class, high-impact platform for medical innovation and global integration.

This joint initiative brings together the strengths and aspirations of both sides to establish the UK Overseas Dental Licensing Examination Centre. Moving forward, the Centre will enhance China’s global standing in dental education and nurture talent with an international outlook, contributing to the advancement of oral health worldwide.