On September 8, the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) held its 2023 opening ceremony for its new students at Runyang Stadium.

1,342 undergraduates, including 23 international students, and 2,042 postgraduate students, came together to celebrate this new chapter in their lives.

Hong JIANG, University Council Chairperson, Qikun XUE, President of SUSTech, members of the University’s leadership team, heads of related departments and colleges, and faculty members attended the ceremony.

Hongwei FANG, Vice President and Provost, presided over the ceremony.

The event kicked off at 7 p.m. with the national flag-raising ceremony. The new students in attendance sported uniforms from their respective colleges at SUSTech and lapel pins of the University.

In his opening remarks at the ceremony, President Qikun XUE noted that this year marks the twelfth consecutive year that SUSTech has adopted the “631” comprehensive evaluation and admission model, and the number of students enrolled has grown yearly.

He said that the new students have outstanding innovative potential, diverse interests and hobbies, will inject new vitality on campus, and become a driving force for the development of SUSTech as a world-class university.

He pointed out that lofty beliefs always go hand in hand with extraordinary careers, connected with a broad life, and with great practice and mutual achievement, students can not only harvest a wealth of knowledge and excellent skills during this chapter of their lives at the University, but more importantly, form lifelong beliefs.

President Qikun XUE hopes that the students will strengthen their beliefs and devote themselves to the country’s development, actively face life’s challenges, pursue excellence, and have the courage to climb the peak of science.

He added that the 20^th National Congress of the Communist Party of China drew up a blueprint for Chinese modernization, and students, as the builders and successors of the future, should contribute to the development and growth of the country and the progress of society.

Efim Zelmanov, Chair Professor of the Department of Mathematics and Director of the Shenzhen International Center for Mathematics, spoke on behalf of faculty members at the ceremony. He shared his scientific research career with the students and his experiences with SUSTech and China before joining the University.

He referenced that we are living in an age of information revolution and artificial intelligence (AI). He pointed out that AI is rooted in mathematics, that mathematics is the foundation and premise of all engineering and technological education, and that corresponding mathematical theories are still in their early stage of development, highlighting the importance of studying mathematics.

He believes that Shenzhen is a city full of vitality and that SUSTech is a vibrant university. He hopes that all the new students will study hard, be committed to solving problems, and take the initiative to communicate with faculty members.

Yi WAN, a graduate of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and currently a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), spoke as an alumni representative.

She shared with the new students about her growth and experiences during her studies at SUSTech. She stressed the importance of never forgetting one’s true heart and being brave to tackle any difficulties along the way.

She encouraged the students to cherish every day at the University, pursue their dreams, be grateful to everyone who helps them, and strive to contribute to the country and humanity.

Huiheng CHEN, a freshman of Shuren College at SUSTech, spoke on behalf of the new undergraduate students, and shared his thoughts and insights on enrolling at the University.

Fei YUAN, a doctoral student of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, delivered a speech on behalf of the postgraduate students.

As the oldest postgraduate student joining the University this year, he shared major transitions in his life in his studies, entrepreneurship, and pursuing a Ph.D.

He said he would strive to improve the quality of his scientific research and academic level, combine his work and entrepreneurial experience, transform the University’s advanced scientific research and academic achievements into production, and advance the country’s development through science and technology.

Matin Valamat Zade, a freshman from Tajikistan, spoke as a representative of the international students.

He said China’s unwavering commitment to innovation, technological advancement, and academic excellence has attracted influential scholars and researchers worldwide, making it an ideal destination for higher education. In addition, China’s rapid economic growth also provides a wealth of career opportunities.

He added that he will cherish his time at SUSTech and contribute to the progress of society.