Faculty and students of Tsinghua University, one of China's leading institutes of higher education, said they were encouraged by President Xi Jinping's visit on Monday ahead of its 110th anniversary.

President Xi visited a laboratory on imaging and intelligence, where he was briefed on the team's latest innovations and research.

"President Xi recognized our team for our original research and said Tsinghua University is representative of the Chinese colleges which are working hard to become world-class institutions. He said he has strong faith in us," said Fan Jingtao, associate research professor of the laboratory.

The president also stopped by the university gymnasium, a symbol of the importance Tsinghua University attaches to sports and physical education.

"My coach introduced the men's team and asked me to introduce the women's team to President Xi. The president also asked me which position I play in basketball. He said he is looking forward to watching the game I play in the future, which thrilled me," said Song Kexin, captain of the school's women's basketball team.

Xi also visited the Academy of Arts and Design and an exhibition on the Tsinghua's key education and scientific research achievements.

He learned about reforms undertaken by the university through the decades and the role it has played in China's development.

During the visit, Xi stressed the importance of building world-class universities in the country.

Established in 1911, Tsinghua University is celebrating its 110th anniversary on April 25. Among the key events to commemorate this milestone are a Global Forum of University Presidents, a track and field championship and the anniversary gala.

Tsinghua is also welcoming alumni around the world to join the celebrations both online and offline.

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