NONGFU SPRING(HK:09633) 3 6 Ke·2025-10-14 00:59Core Viewpoint - The establishment of Qiantang University by Zhong Shanshan, the founder of Nongfu Spring, represents a significant step towards addressing the higher education gap in Zhejiang province, which is economically strong but lacks influential universities outside of Zhejiang University [1][2][5]. Summary by Sections University Establishment - Qiantang University has received land approval for its campus, covering a total area of 36.3 hectares in Hangzhou, marking a milestone in its construction process [1][8]. - The university aims to fill the educational void in Zhejiang, which has been criticized for being a "higher education lowland" despite its economic strength [2][5]. Zhong Shanshan's Motivation - Zhong Shanshan, who has the lowest educational background among China's billionaires, emphasizes the importance of education due to his own experiences of dropping out in fifth grade [5][6]. - His commitment to donate 40 billion yuan over ten years to fund the university reflects his desire to give back to his hometown and promote knowledge as a means of changing lives [6][16]. Educational Model and Goals - Qiantang University is positioned as an "innovation engine" for Zhong's companies, focusing on health, medical, and biotechnology fields, with a goal of integrating research and industry [7][12]. - The university plans to adopt a "small but elite" approach, aiming to train 15 top professionals annually, directly competing with West Lake University [7][11]. Economic Context - Hangzhou, with a GDP of 2.2 trillion yuan in 2024, requires more technology-oriented universities to support its rapid development in fields like artificial intelligence [8][9]. - The land for Qiantang University is strategically located in a high-value area, with potential land value exceeding 15 billion yuan [9][10]. Financial Backing - The funding for Qiantang University will primarily come from Zhong Shanshan's personal donations through the Qiantang Education Foundation, which is distinct from direct corporate contributions from Nongfu Spring [16][17]. - The foundation's financial backing is supported by the profits accumulated from Zhong's businesses, ensuring a stable funding source for the university's operations [16][17]. Impact on Nongfu Spring - Despite facing negative public sentiment earlier in the year, Nongfu Spring reported a revenue of 25.62 billion yuan in the first half of the year, reflecting a 15.56% year-on-year growth, indicating recovery from previous challenges [13][15]. - The establishment of Qiantang University is seen as a strategic move to enhance the company's reputation and long-term sustainability [12][18].