The Commencement Ceremony 2023 for Graduate Students of Tsinghua University was held on June 25. Leaders of the University, Qiu Yong, Wang Xiqin, Yang Bin, Guo Yong, Zheng Li, Xiang Botao, Zhao Gang, Peng Gang, Zeng Rong, Jiang Peixue, Xu Qinghong, Wang Hongwei, Li Luming, Wang Chen, president of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Huang Yidong, vice chairman of the Academic Committee of Tsinghua, and Liang Junjian, director of Graduate Affairs Office of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee attended the ceremony. Peng Gang presided over the ceremony.
Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee Qiu Yong announced the decision to commend outstanding doctoral and master's graduates, and expressed congratulations to the graduates who have been recognized. He hoped the graduates maintain firm ideals and convictions, adopt a strong and pragmatic work ethic, be determined to innovate and create, adhering to the notion that, "it starts with me, it starts from now", and strive to shine and make a difference wherever the Party and the people need them.
Wang Xiqin, Tsinghua president and chairman of the Academic Degrees Evaluation Committee, delivered a speech titled, "With Long-term Aspirations and a Firm Grasp of a Visionary Blueprint". On behalf of the University, he warmly congratulated the students on the successful completion of their studies at the graduate level and embarking on a new chapter in their lives. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the tutors and family members who have worked diligently to cultivate, care and support the graduates, and all the students, faculty, staff who have devoted themselves to supporting and guiding the graduates. After reflecting upon the exceptional past few years, Wang remarked, "You are the inaugural cohort of graduates from Tsinghua University who have dispersed throughout the country after the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. You will represent the vanguard for China to realize its Second Centenary Goal." He hopes that they would integrate their personal aspirations into the grand blueprint of the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and aspire to become more proud, confident, and assured in their identity as Chinese people. He also encouraged them to utilize their youthfulness to create a youthful country, a youthful nation, and a youthful future.
"Nation and country should be put at the top priorities in life for it is the mark of core aspiration," Wang stated, emphasizing that one's aspirations determine the height and direction of their life. Liang Qichao, one of the "Four Tutors" in the Tsinghua Academy of Chinese Learning, carried a lifelong dedication to the country and faced numerous setbacks. However, his aspirations remained unwavering. At the age of 29, he pioneered the concept of the "Chinese nation", which became the driving force behind the rejuvenation of the Chinese people. Tsinghua people should uphold the spirit of "patriotism, dedication, and pursuit of excellence," align their thoughts with the aspirations of the nation and the needs of the people, and take it upon themselves to contribute to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. He encourages them to strive for outstanding achievements that serve the country and benefit the people.
"Guiding principles should serve as the curbs along our life's path, for they shape our strength of character," Wang pointed out. The countless hardships and tribulations that the Chinese nation has experienced throughout its over 5,000 years of history have further strengthened the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people. Drawing on the example of Tsinghua alumnus and recipient of the August 1st Medal, Academician Ma Weiming, who has led a team in producing revolutionary original achievements and spearheading groundbreaking technological advancements, he expressed, "One should not be arrogant, but one must possess a resolute spirit." He hopes that Tsinghua people should hold principles as their curbs, staying true to their original aspirations and essence. By maintaining their mettle regardless of the hardships and dangers they face, they can turn every "impossible" into a "definite possibility," using their tenacity and hard work to open new horizons for their professional development.
"The journey of life should be built upon confidence, for it provides us with a solid foundation," emphasized Wang. The splendid Chinese civilization serves as the powerful source of confidence for realizing the Chinese Dream of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Collectives are an important source of confidence and strength for individuals, while personal confidence also stems from honing practical skills through rooted practice. Tsinghua people should draw wisdom and strength from the profound cultural heritage of the Chinese nation. Through the joint efforts and companionship of mentors, friends, and peers, they should ignite the spirit of striving. By engaging in true learning and practical work, they can cultivate their own expertise. In doing so, their lives will blossom like magnificent flowers within the great cause of building China into a modern socialist country in all respects.
"Youth with lofty ideals and unwavering beliefs provide an unstoppable driving force for a country and a nation." Wang hopes that students will uphold the University motto of "Self-discipline and Social Commitment" and embody the University spirit of “Actions Speak Louder Than Words”. With long-term aspirations and a firm grasp of a visionary blueprint, they should contribute to the historic process of advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization. In doing so, they will write a magnificent chapter that is worthy of the motherland, the times and the youth.
Alumnus Yang Chunbao who graduated from Tsinghua Department of Precision Instrument and chief scientist of BeiDou Navigation Satellite System reflected on his 18 years of work, continuously pursuing excellence and making relentless efforts to achieve self-reliance and technological advancement. He advised students to actively adapt to different roles and strive for personal growth and excellence in their future work endeavors. He also encouraged them to abandon narrow-minded tactics and embrace broader wisdom on their life journey.
Lu Zhi from Tsinghua Department of Automation, as the representative of graduate students, said that Tsinghua people aspire to conduct the most original and interdisciplinary research, and strive to overcome critical challenges that hinder national progress, to be patriotic and dedicated, and set examples for others. He emphasized that in the journey of life, there will be bright and sunny days as well as moments of adversity. However, by following the guiding light, one can remain undeterred by temporary obstacles and march forward with unwavering determination.
The commencement ceremony was livestreamed in both Chinese and English on "Rain Classroom", allowing graduating students and their families who were not able to join the ceremony in person to attend online.
Editors：John Paul, Li Han
