Authors: Li Weimiao, Lin Ziqi, Ding Jiayu, Lai Guiyun, Du Mingcan, Li Mei, Su Qianyi

Publisher: News Center

Date: September 9, 2024  

On September 9, 2024, Jinan University held its opening ceremony for new students, along with the undergraduate military training mobilization meeting and the freshman training camp opening ceremony. The events took place simultaneously across the Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai campuses, utilizing a combination of in-person attendance and live video streaming.

(At the opening ceremony)

A Warm Welcome to New Students

More than 14,000 new students from diverse backgrounds gathered at Nanyuan, marking the beginning of their academic journey at Jinan University. The incoming class includes over 7,900 undergraduate students, more than 6,000 graduate students, and over 700 doctoral candidates, showcasing the university's vibrant and growing community.

(2024 Jinan Undergraduate Freshmen)

(2024 Jinan Postgraduate Freshman)

Principal Xing Feng's Inspiring Address

During the ceremony, Principal Xing Feng addressed the new students, emphasizing the importance of their arrival as a fresh infusion of talent into the university, which has a rich history of 118 years. He shared insights into the profound legacy of Jinan University and articulated three key hopes for the freshmen:

(Xing delivers a speech.)

(Xing presents a letter of appointment to the leader of the freshman training camp running team.)

1. Cultivate Patriotism: Xing urged students to develop a strong sense of national pride and integrate these values into their academic and personal lives, highlighting their role in contributing to national prosperity and rejuvenation.

2. Establish Great Aspirations: He encouraged students to strive for excellence and embody the Jinan spirit of ambition and perseverance.

3. Demonstrate Courage: Xing called on students to embrace innovation and take initiative, positioning themselves as leaders and trendsetters in society.

Secretary Lin Rupeng's Vision for New Beginnings

At the military training mobilization conference, Secretary Lin Rupeng underscored the significance of military training as a foundational experience for students. He highlighted its role in fostering patriotism, enhancing national defense awareness, and promoting teamwork. Lin expressed his hopes that students would gain strength and resilience through this training, viewing it as a crucial first lesson of the academic year.

(Lin expresses optimism for the incoming students.)

(Lin presents a flag to a military trainer.)

Messages from Alumni and Student Representatives

The ceremony featured a special message from Xie Sijing, a Jinan University alumnus and Olympic diving champion, who encouraged new students to cherish their time at the university and pursue their dreams with dedication. 

Student representatives also shared their aspirations, reflecting on their commitment to personal growth and academic excellence. Zhang Taihao, a new undergraduate student, expressed his desire to cultivate new hopes alongside Jinan University, while Liu Yang, a doctoral student, spoke about overcoming challenges in pursuit of knowledge.

Qian Yuyao, an undergraduate student from the School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, shared her excitement about the academic environment at Jinan, while Shen Yili, a student from the Italian Overseas Chinese and Art Academy, expressed gratitude for the support she received from her peers and teachers.

Looking Ahead

As the Class of 2024 embarks on their educational journey, the opening ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the values of respect, resilience, and ambition that define Jinan University. With a strong sense of community and purpose, these new students are poised to make significant contributions to the university and society at large.