Honoring visionaries who made a difference

"We can use the Alumni Awards as a real opportunity to tell these people that they matter-they are shaping the world, they are creating stronger links between China and the rest of the world, of course, including the UK."

Nearly 600,000 people in China have studied in the UK since 1978.

"I think it is important to recognize this group of people through the Alumni Awards and the contribution they have made in building trust between China and the UK," Burney says.

The Alumni Awards ceremony has been held in 12 countries worldwide.

An increasing number of Chinese students have chosen to study in the UK over the years and about 160,000 are currently studying there.

"The diversity of thought that Chinese students bring to the UK is incredibly important," Burney says.

The UK has also come up with favorable policies to draw in Chinese students.

In September, the UK government announced the new Graduate Route visa, allowing international students to live and work in the UK for two years after graduation.

"It will be launched quite soon. It is very good news, and will enable good quality students from China to continue to live in the UK," Burney says.

"After academic study, they (students) will be able to improve their prospects by gaining employment in the UK."