Nonnaizab, an entomology professor at Inner Mongolia Normal University (IMNU) wears his Polaris Medal –– the most prestigious medal in Mongolia for his long-term contribution to the development of China-Mongolia relations, Nov 24. [Photo/imnu.edu.cn]

Nonnaizab, an entomology professor at Inner Mongolia Normal University (IMNU) was awarded the Polaris Medal by officials from Mongolia's Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and Culture on Nov 24.

The award, launched in 1936, is Mongolia's highest honor granted to foreigners for their contributions to the national economy, security and defense, and culture. 

Nonnaizab, head of the Nonnaizab Entomology Research Center at IMNU said that the award was a huge honor. 

"I am thrilled," he said at the awards ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia. 

"I feel that this award belongs to all my co-workers, who have dedicated their lives to scientific and technological exchanges between China and Mongolia. Some of them have passed away and I hope that the younger generations will bear their contributions in mind forever and further advance the friendly relations between our two countries," he added.

Nonnaizab (middle) and representatives from the College of Life Science and Technology at IMNU pose for a picture at Baita International Airport, Hohhot on Nov 27. [Photo/imnu.edu.cn] 

"Nonnaizab has translated several Chinese textbooks about entomology into Mongolian, making great contributions to the related research," said Bi Junhuai, vice-dean of the College of Life Science and Technology, speaking at a symposium held at the college.

The Party branch secretary of the college said that Nonnaizab had dedicated his career to research on entomology and Sino-Mongolian cooperation in education and science, and also plays a vital role in the implementation of the national project on biodiversity at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Nonnaizab said in his speech at the symposium that the award is a fusion of many people's efforts.