On September 14, President Wang Hongyuan addressed the Class of 2029 with a powerful lecture titled "Learning from History, Building the Future: Our Role in National Rejuvenation". While 280 freshman representatives attended in person, the entire cohort joined via a laive broadcast across campus.

President Wang highlighted China's WWII resilience through historical accounts and reviewed key speeches from the gathering marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. He emphasized the enduring relevance of national spirit, urging students to stay loyal to the nation and its people, honor history and heroes through tangible actions, master expertise for serving national priorities, build physical resilience and mental toughness, and pursue holistic growth with moral and academic excellence.

Faculty and student speakers enriched the event. Dr. Mou Wenpeng from the School of Marxism recounted WWII historical contexts, Professor Lei Xiuya from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, a National Model Teacher, shared her experience attending the Victory Day parade, Student representatives Yao Chengming and Zhao Lijiang reflected on their volunteering participation in commemorative activities.

The lecture resonated deeply with the new students. "The stories of seniors singing at the parade and managing volunteering work make me aspire to become a well-rounded student," said Xu Xiaoqi from the School of Landscape Architecture.

"True strength lies in spiritual richness, not material comfort," noted Su Yebo from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, hoping to integrate their personal ideals into the development of the country.

"Unity and struggle are our generation's call to action," added Wang Xijie from School of Foreign Languages.

Zhu Yizhou from the School of Grassland Science also gained a lot from this class:" The relay baton of history is now in our hands. We will paint China's future with professional knowledge and passion."

Written by Wang Zian
Translated and edited by Song He
Reviewed by Yu Yangyang