On the evening of December 28, the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) hosted its inaugural New Year Gala, coinciding with the finale of the 9^th Voice of SUSTech at Runyang Stadium.

Attended by nearly 2,000 faculty members and students, including Qikun XUE, President of SUSTech, heads of various departments, and invited judges, the event marked a significant celebration for the new year.

The evening commenced with heartfelt video messages from Qikun XUE and Hong JIANG, extending warm wishes for the new year to faculty, students, alumni, and guests.

The Gala opened with the video presentation, “Wonderful SUSTech 2023”, highlighting the year’s achievements and successes in areas such as party building, education, scientific research, talent training, and cultural development.

The program unfolded with a diverse array of acts, ranging from dancing, singing, and cheerleading to stage plays and solo performances by faculty members, staff, and students.

A special cultural heritage acrobatic performance by guests from Longchuan County, Heyuan City, added a unique touch to the festivities.

The NOVA Hip-Hop Club, winners of the 2023 Shenzhen University Dance Competition, set an energetic tone for the evening, captivating the audience’s attention.

A stage play depicting the founding of SUSTech with the use of a large banyan tree, presented by the High School Affiliated to SUSTech and the Rong Drama Club of Bao’an District, garnered enthusiastic responses from spectators. Weiwei DENG, Professor of the Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, who was a member of the stage play team, delivered a gripping storytelling performance.

Additional highlights included the Wink Dance Club’s mesmerizing dance act “Butterfly”, a Peking Opera recital by faculty members and staff, and a poignant melody and dance performance by the SUSTech Student Art Troupe.

The acrobatic act by guests from Longchuan County, Heyuan City, involved them skillfully stabilizing drums on their feet while synchronizing with the rhythm of the music.

The second half of the New Year Gala took center stage with the finals of the 9^th Voice of SUSTech, featuring ten finalists vying for the coveted prize.

Xuran MA emerged victorious, securing the top spot, followed by Yijie MOU as the runner-up and Zhengxin DAI claiming the third position. Additionally, Huangbo LIU received the Popularity Award.

The New Year Gala served as the grand finale to the University’s cultural events for the year, co-organized by the Office of Communications & Public Relations, the Trade Union Office, the Office of Student Affairs, the Center for the Arts, the Education Foundation, and Zhicheng College.