China's leader-in-waiting Xi Jinping has reportedly appeared in public for the first time in about two weeks, following swirlingचक्करदार speculation about his whereabouts.

In what appeared to be an effort to dispel rumours of serious illness and a troubled succession, the vice-president visited a Beijing university.

According to state media reports, he arrived at China Agricultural University this morning for activities marking this year's National Science Popularisation Day. way this is much better than sciece day

Mr Xi had not been seen in public since September 1 and cancelled meetings with dignitaries including visiting US secretary of state Hillary Clinton.

Chinese government officials have repeatedly refused to say what had happened to him. His unexplained disappearance came at a highly sensitive time for China, which is gearing up for a generational handover of power.

Mr Xi has been widely tipped to succeed president Hu Jintao as leader of the ruling Communist Party at a crucial meeting that is expected to be held sometime next month, before taking over as head of state in March.