Zhejiang University welcomes the Class of 2029 Lights shine bright like the stars—illuminating the journey ahead

On the evening of August 24, Zhejiang University held its Opening Ceremony for the Class of 2029 on Zijingang Campus. With hearts full of hope and determination, the newest generation of ZJUers gathered by Qizhen Lake, dreams in hand, ideals in mind, ready to write the first chapter of their university journey in “Qiushi Garden”.

In his keynote address, "Carrying Forward the Spirit of Seeking Truth, Shouldering the Mission of the Times", President MA Yanming reminded students of the importance of both individual and collective responsibility.

“Humanity, as a whole, is nature’s most intricate creation of intelligence, shaping a vast and splendid history of civilization. Yet as individuals, each of us must face the tides of change, keep pace with the times, and take on the mission entrusted to us,” he said. “To inherit the spirit of seeking truth and shoulder the mission of our era is both a call to self-cultivation and a courageous act of standing with the tide and walking with the nation. This is the enduring path and the defining value of every ZJUer.”

Speaking on behalf of her peers, LIN Yejingyi, a member of the Class of 2026 from the School of Economics, encouraged the incoming freshmen to think beyond themselves. “Only when the ‘small self’ merges into the ‘greater self’ can youth shine without regret,” she said. “Let us uphold the noble tradition of 'taking the world as our responsibility, and truth as our guide,' and let the flowers of youth bloom where our country needs them most.”

Freshman representative WANG Yuheng from the ZJU-UIUC Institute reflected on CHU Kochen’s famous “Two Questions”, sharing three of his insights: to cultivate resilience and embrace change; to value teamwork and a sense of belonging; and to build confidence and courage in chasing and surpassing their dreams.  

The ceremony blended poetry, music, and imagery as faculty, staff, senior students, and incoming freshmen looked back on Zhejiang University’s 128-year history. Together, all freshmen lit their star-shaped lanterns that illuminated the night sky, forming a vast sea of constellations and symbolizing the beginning of a new story in Qiushi Garden.

From the unwavering dedication of the past to the torch-bearing of today, each light marked a step forward. The enduring flame of the Fei Gong Lamp—a symbol of Zhejiang University’s legacy—still burns bright, passing on the spirit of the forebears.

As the University flag was carried into the hall, the spirit of “embracing all rivers, cultivating truth and virtue, opening the way for the people, serving the nation” rang out, pulling the heartstrings of the audience. In a solemn moment, all freshmen donned their Zhejiang University badge. This gleaming emblem carries the spirit and honor of Zhejiang University, binding them to countless distinguished alumni who came before.  

“The vast sea contains all streams, all rivers; Great learning connects Heaven and Earth.” With these words, the hall glowed with light and expectation, reflected in the faces of the new students. This night will long be remembered, for it marks the start of a journey already unfolding beneath their feet.

Arriving here is the reward for years of dedication; setting forth again is a call to explore the unknown, to meet the challenges of the times, and to live out the mission of being a ZJUer. From this moment, the Class of 2029 will share with countless luminaries the honor of the name “ZJUer,” and together bear the responsibilities of the nation and the world.

The stars rise to herald their journey, and brilliance shall accompany them always. Congratulations to the Class of 2029—welcome to Zhejiang University.

With passion, surge like the tides;  

With ideals, set sail against the waves;  

With youth, write boldly across boundless horizons.

Adapted and translated from the article by WU Wenbo, ZHANG Jiahui, DONG Xiaomen

Translator: FANG Fumin

Photos by ZHU Yuanzhi, LUO Yikun, FAN xinyu, CAI Shenxue, ZHE Yin

Editor: HE Jiawen, ZHU Ziyu