World-famous mathematician and professor of Harvard University Shing-tung Yau paid a visit to Tsinghua on March 28. Professor Chen Xi, Chairman of the Tsinghua University Council, met with Professor Yau.

Professor Yau won the Fields medal in 1982 and the National Medal of Science (U.S.) in 1997. He became renowned for his solution of the Calabi conjecture in 1976.

During the talks, Professor Chen discussed the history, academic development and research scope of Tsinghua, and exchanged ideas with Professor Yau on the development of mathematics in the university.

“Importance will be attached to the development of mathematics” at Tsinghua, Professor Chen said.

Professor Yau had high praise for the excellence of Tsinghua students. He emphasized the importance of treating mathematics as an area of knowledge instead of using it merely as a tool.

Also present for the discussion were Tsinghua Vice President Kang Kejun and Professor Wen Zhiying, chairman of the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

In the afternoon, Professor Yau gave a speech for Tsinghua students.

By Li Han