On the morning of September 8, 2011, a grand ceremony was held at the Plum Garden Square to welcome the newly enrolled students of Wuhan University (WHU) for the 2011/2012 Academic Year.
Prof. Li Jian, chairman of WHU University Council, Prof. Li Xiaohong, president of WHU, and all the university leadership, members of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, senior distinguished professors of humanities & social sciences, staff representatives, student representatives, and invited guests from middle schools attended the assembly. Executive Vice President Prof. Li Qingquan presided over the ceremony.
“When you packed your bags and were greeted by the stone arch with the inscription National Wuhan University at the first sight, when you had your first meal in the school dining hall, when you took part in your fist assembly here with small stools, I trust, each one of you had vividly felt the joy and pride of becoming a member of Wuda (WHU) community,” President Li Xiaohong extended his welcome in a well-worded, heart-warming speech.
Apart from a brief introduction of the university history and current profile, a clear message from President Li to the freshers was contained in six Chinese words which meant Seeking Truth, Seeking Knowledge, and Seeking Innovation. Prof. Li pointed out, the implication of these six words was part of our valued spirit of Wuda, and it was the intangible and invaluable school spirit that had worked to keep the school’s ever lasting charisma and eternal life.
Representatives respectively on behalf of undergraduates, postgraduates, international students and staff, also addressed the audience.
“I have been wishing for long to be a career diplomat. So I’ve got to find a university with historical and cultural richness. Wuhan University is my right choice as it boasts picturesque landscapes, outstanding staff, and nice schoolmates. I am looking forward to my dream coming true here,” said Mr. Huang Wei (Chinese name), a new master student from Turkey with a BA degree from the University of Ankara.
Reportedly there are 8,200 undergraduates, 6,100 master students, 1,500 Ph. D. candidates, and 700 international students from over 100 countries and regions, joining WHU and starting their academic journey this autumn.
