A Research Associate of the Institute of Economic Sciences, Elena Jovičić, PhD participated in the training school "China Scholarship and Policy Advice: Reaching (out to) Decision Makers on China", organized by COST Action CA18215 - China in Europe Research Network - CHERN and the Institute of Eastern Studies of the University Ruhr in Bochum, Germany.

The training school, attended by twenty trainees from different European countries, comprised two modules: three introductory online sessions and two-day onsite sessions in Brussels. In addition to training sessions aimed at improving knowledge and skills such as the style of writing publications addressing policymakers, building up a personal brand, applying strategies and tools for work visibility boosting and network growth, as well as communication and presentation skills, the participants had the opportunity to learn about the experiences and recommendations of eminent experts and decision-makers regarding the main challenges and opportunities for bridging the gap between scholars and the EU policymakers. Particularly important was the visit to the European Commission Directorate General Research and Innovation, where the participants met with representatives of various departments of DG R&I responsible for cooperation with China and got insights into their main activities and needs for China knowledge from scholars and China experts.