Beijing, June 20, 2008 - A new Development Knowledge Center (DKC) was officially inaugurated at the Renmin University of China today.
A DKC is like a small library focused on development knowledge and information. As part of the World Bank's Public Information Network, it provides access to major publications, research reports and databases on development issues at the global, regional and country levels by the World Bank Group.
Prof. Lin Gang, Vice President of Renmin University and Mr. David Dollar, World Bank Country Director for China unveiled the DKC, witnessed by Prof. Ni Ning, head of the Renmin University Library, Prof. Wen Tianjun, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ms. Elaine Sun, Operations Manager of the World Bank China Office, as well as representatives of the faculty and students.
In his remarks at the inauguration, Mr. David Dollar stressed the importance of knowledge. "Initially the World Bank provided loans to the developing countries. But now the World Bank is a knowledge bank," he said. "We provide knowledge to the developing countries through analysis and research. Personally I think that knowledge is more important than money. So we are very pleased to set up this Development Knowledge Center at the Renmin University which is one of the great universities in China."
Prof. Wen Tianjun recalled his personal involvement with the World Bank since the early 1980s. "The establishment of the DKC is a continuation of the cooperative relationship we have had over the years. As we are preparing for the new institute for sustainable development, the DKC will provide good resource for our research and open up opportunities for broader cooperation with the World Bank."
Renmin University of China is one of the leading universities in China focused on economics, law, sociology, journalism and communication.
