The Okanagan Charter was formally adopted at Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) on 3 November 2025. As the first university in China to adopt the Charter, BNBU takes a significant first step towards developing the global network of health-promoting universities.
Dr Matt Dolf, Co-Chair of the International Steering Committee of Health Promoting Campuses Network, and Director of Center of Well-being Strategy at the University of British Columbia (right) and BNBU President Prof Chen Zhi at the ceremony
The Okanagan Charter, outcome of the 2015 International Conference on Health-Promoting Universities and Colleges, represents a commitment to supporting the well-being of students and staff on campus worldwide. To transform the health and sustainability of societies and contribute to the well-being of the planet, it has engaged with campuses from more than 45 countries, representing over 600 universities.
Dr Matt Dolf, Co-Chair of the International Steering Committee of Health Promoting Campuses Network, and Director of Center of Well-being Strategy at the University of British Columbia, where the International Charter originated, attended the event as a guest speaker. During his speech, he noted: "BNBU's adoption today is especially significant as it is the first university in China to formally join this global community." He expressed his optimism and was thankful for BNBU's efforts in translating the Okanagan Charter, "making it more accessible to institutions around China.”
Dr Matt Dolf delivers a speech
During the ceremony, Prof Chen Zhi reiterated BNBU's commitment to overall health, safety and support needed from students and staff. "The adoption of the Okanagan Charter will certainly enable BNBU to play a more active role in promoting health to the city of Zhuhai,” he highlighted, emphasising BNBU's commitment in promoting cooperation in public health among universities in China. In the future, BNBU will continue to contribute to the well-being of the public.
Prof Chen Zhi delivers a speech
BNBU has been committed to integrating the concept of health into campus development and community services over the years. As early as 2022, it hosted the first International Conference on Health Promoting Universities in China, and has since provided health education services to several primary and secondary schools, as well as communities in Zhuhai. In addition, the University’s ongoing Phase II campus development features extensive shaded walkways, landscaped waterways, and open spaces, all designed to promote work-life balance and enhance the well-being of faculty, staff, and students.
Group photo
From BNBU
Reporter: Juan RENGIFO, Koga Song
Photographer: Koga Song
Editor: Cecilia Yu
