The Huawei communications giant is again embroiled in controversy, this time accused of attempting to infiltrate British universities, The Telegraph reports.
Not long ago, Huawei published an online advertisement looking for students to "spread Huawei goodwill" and promising payment and company merchandise in return for "help[ing] Huawei to better understand your campus' culture." More than 120 students applied.
Anthony Glees, head of the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies at the University of Buckingham, said that Huawei’s recruitment drive appeared to be "deeply sinister," adding that, "I think this is a big story, and potentially for Huawei, a disastrous one … it gives every indication of being an advert for agents to work for Huawei."
In a report published earlier this year, The Telegraph revealed that Huawei has backed 17 scientific papers with UK universities for technology which could have both military and civilian uses. All of the universities denied any wrongdoing.
With regard to the latest upset, a Huawei spokesman said: "The campus ambassador role is one that is common amongst larger companies with links to universities across the world. Typically they help organise events such as job fairs and student competitions. They are also involved in promoting scholarship programmes. Huawei is a major global employer in the tech R&D sector so we are constantly seeking to recruit the best students and to help launch the careers of promising new talent."