On the morning of September 11, Hainan University (HNU) welcomed its 2024 cohort of students with opening convocations held simultaneously on Haidian, Danzhou, Mission Hills campuses and in Yazhou Bay Science & Education Park respectively. 9,119 undergraduates, 3,659 master’s students, 580 PhD candidates, and 214 international students from 52 countries and regions officially embarked on their academic journeys at HNU as the latest batch of “Hainanese dream chasers.” Fu Xuanguo, Secretary of CPC HNU Committee and Luo Qingming, HNU President and CAS (Chinese Academy of Sciences) member were present, and Vice President Liu Qian presided over the event.

Opening convocation on Haidian campus (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

Opening convocation on Danzhou campus (Photo courtesy of Danxin College)

Opening convocation on Mansion Hills campus (Photo courtesy of Jinzhao College)

Opening convocation in Yazhou Bay Science & Education Park (Photo courtesy of Yazhou College)

At 7:30 a.m., with the national flag raised and national anthem played, the opening convocation officially began.

President Luo Qingming, in his address titled “Braving the Winds and Waves, Setting Sail on a New Journey,” noted that the event was special as all students were safe and sound and the logistical support was provided shortly after Hainan was battered by Typhoon Yagi, the strongest autumn typhoon to make landfall in China since 1949. He hoped that, for their new chapter of life, students should explore the unknown, embrace challenges, and resolve to serve the nation. He called on each student to build correct values and life principles, aspiring to become an outstanding HNUer.

Luo underscored the importance of inheriting the “Hainan University spirit,” which is not only defined by geographical locations but also by the commitment to the values passed down by generations of HNUers who surmounted one challenge after another. He cited the endeavors to rehabilitate the campuses after Typhoon Rammasun wreaked havoc in 2014. Now, in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, the HNU community has again demonstrated resilience and solidarity, showcasing its indomitable spirit.

Furthermore, Luo called on the students to foster a global perspective amid the profound changes worldwide and China’s growing influence. He encouraged them to cultivate patriotism, broaden horizons, and think globally. He pointed out that their prime years coincide with the historic transformation of China and the world, and their actions will help shape the future. HNU, Luo added, will continue to provide platforms and opportunities to help them develop a global vision and make the most of their years at HNU to understand China, engage with the world, and reinvent themselves.

Luo encouraged students to become active contributors to the development of Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). He recalled the pioneering spirit of HNU’s founders 66 years ago, and explained how current students can pass on that legacy, especially under the guidance of President Xi Jinping’s instruction on “supporting Hainan University in developing world-class academic disciplines”. He hoped that they will learn more about Hainan in their studies and work in Hainan after graduation.

As for the digital transformation of education, Luo underscored the importance of personalized learning, a switch from “standardized education”. HNU has been at the forefront to promote the “complete credit system, collaborative innovation centers, and residential college system,” which aligns with the opportunities presented by digital education. These reforms, synergized with digital education, will provide students with a more personalized and high-quality educational experience. HNU is making an all-out effort to explore the best practices in advancing digital education.

Luo noted that HNU is now in a phase of high-quality growth, with key performance indicators placing it among the leading universities in China. He noted that the enrolment of excellent students fuels the university’s progress, the recruitment of outstanding teachers enhances its foundation, and the boost in research capabilities accelerates its development.

Luo concluded his address by reminding the students that victory will not come to them—they must chase it with persistence and painstaking efforts. He encouraged them to adapt to their new roles, take responsibilities for their future, make thoughtful decisions, and embrace the challenges ahead. As HNU enters a stage of high-quality development, he urged every student to study hard, make progress and have a fulfilling experience at HNU.

President Luo delivering the address (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

At the ceremony, representatives made speeches respectively on behalf of the faculty, current students, new graduate students and new undergraduates.

Representatives making speeches (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

The event was attended by the HNU leaders Gao Diangong, Nie Qingbin, Qiu Xiguang, Zou Yonghua, Chen Jun, Han Shumei, Tan Yong, and Yang Zhixin, along with heads of HNU departments, leaders from various residential colleges and schools, faculty representatives, student representatives, and all the students belonging to the 2024 cohort.

Source from HNU News

Translated by Han Yunsheng

Proofread by Kuang Xiaowen, Yang Jie