Tsinghua President Qiu Yong and Vice-presidents Yang Bin and You Zheng attended celebrations for the university’s 110th anniversary in Guangzhou and Shenzhen on March 25-26. They were joined by Tsinghua alumni in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

More than 120 people from Tsinghua alumni associations in the GBA and its neighboring areas gathered in Guangzhou on March 25, contributing their wisdom to the future of the university.

In his speech, President Qiu reviewed Tsinghua’s achievements in reforming education and teaching, improving research mechanisms and personnel management, as well as promoting globalization over the past decade. In particular, he highlighted the Tsinghua community’s efforts in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic while also contributing to the university’s reform efforts in 2020.

He said that a university's decisions and actions reflect its true aspirations and what it values the most, adding that the motto “Self-Discipline and Social Commitment” is an irreplaceable inspiration for all Tsinghua alumni.

He introduced the theme of the 110th Anniversary celebrations – “Strive for Excellence, Innovate for the Future” – and reiterated the importance of self-discipline and innovation.

Tsinghua will promote scientific innovation, broaden its goals, expand its global presence and further enhance talent cultivation, academic strengths and international exchanges, according to President Qiu.

In the early morning of March 26, President Qiu joined over 400 faculty and students from the Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School as well as alumni in the GBA to launch a running event in Shenzhen in celebration of Tsinghua’s 110th Anniversary.

Runners were divided into 11 formations, named after periods of history of the Communist Party of China. Each formation completed 10km for a total of 110km as a gift for Tsinghua’s 110th Anniversary. The 30-day running activity “Run into 110” was also launched at the event. Alumni were encouraged to participate in it and carry forward Tsinghua’s sports spirit.

President Qiu said that there are 30 days left before Tsinghua’s 110th Anniversary -- days in which all Tsinghua people should "Strive for Excellence; Innovate for the Future”. Sports are a common passion at Tsinghua. They not only show the vigor and vitality of the Tsinghua community, but also reflect its determination and unity.

Writers: Li Han, Li Xiaotong

Editor: John Olbrich

Photo by Li Pai