On June 26, undergraduates from the Class of 2021 bid adieu to the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) as the 2021 Commencement Ceremony was held in the form of an “in-person and virtual” format.

Along with 934 undergraduates, a further 203 graduates received their postgraduate and master’s degrees. For many, this is the end of the road in their current chapter of undergraduate learning as they embark on a new journey in their lives and begin to build a professional career. For others, they will continue to enhance their educational portfolio by choosing to engage in further academic programs, both domestically and globally.

In his speech, SUSTech President Qikun XUE extended his congratulations to all the graduates and wished them all great success in the future. He noted that they are the future of tomorrow and should be brave in pursuing their dreams. He added that they should aspire to make significant scientific and technological contributions to society and not be afraid to take on extra responsibilities.

As we continue to face uncertain times due to the COVID-19 outbreak, these graduates have had to face challenging and testing circumstances that had previously been unheard of. But as they received their degrees at the ceremony, it is a reminder that they have managed to overcome these difficult times, and it will make them stronger going forward.

For all the students who graduated this year, you are a beaming light reflecting the strong spirit instilled in SUSTechers. From the new relationships built with your classmates and mentors, to the sporting, academic, and extra-curricular events you participated in, and the many fond memories spent around the campus. SUSTech will always be your alma mater, and it will always be a place that you can call home.