Duke Kunshan University (DKU) hosted a special campus open day for Wuhan University (WHU) alumni on December 1, coinciding with WHU's 131st anniversary. The event brought together faculty, students, and alumni from both institutions to celebrate heritage, foster connections and discuss innovation.

Liu Yaolin, chancellor of Duke Kunshan University, delivers a speech at a special campus open day dedicated to Wuhan University alumni on December 1. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

Liu Yaolin, chancellor of DKU, warmly welcomed the visiting WHU alumni, providing a brief overview of the university's achievements. As DKU approaches its 10th anniversary, Liu expressed optimism about deepening international educational collaboration with WHU and other partners, emphasizing DKU's commitment to advancing high-quality development in higher education.

John Quelch, executive vice chancellor of DKU, praised WHU's distinguished 131-year legacy and ambitious vision for growth, which he said continues to inspire Duke Kunshan's pursuit of excellence in education and research. Quelch expressed hope for greater collaboration to contribute to global academic and educational progress.

Chen Huidong, assistant to the president of WHU, delivers a speech at a special campus open day dedicated to Wuhan University alumni on December 1. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

Chen Huidong, assistant to the president of WHU, commended DKU's achievements and noted that the partnership between the two universities has entered a new phase of dynamic growth. Addressing the alumni, he said, "I hope you all will become participants, contributors, and beneficiaries in the efforts of the two universities to deepen collaboration and promote high-quality development."

The event featured personal reflections from notable individuals, including He Shaojun, president of Shanghai Alumni Association of Wuhan University; Lin Xinrong, associate professor of Chemistry at DKU; and Du Jing, a WHU undergraduate currently studying at DKU. They shared inspiring stories and aspirations for the partnership between the two universities.

The event included a ceremonial gift exchange between WHU and DKU, symbolizing their enduring friendship and collaborative spirit. Following this, attendees were treated to a captivating cultural performance presented jointly by student art troupes from both universities.

The leadership of Wuhan University and Duke Kunshan University participate in a roundtable discussion with alumni representatives from the Yangtze River Delta region. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

During a roundtable discussion, university leaders and alumni representatives from the Yangtze River Delta region explored opportunities for further collaboration. Topics included joint development initiatives and strategies for integrating alumni resources, paving the way for deeper engagement and stronger ties between the two institutions.

This landmark event underscored the growing synergy between DKU and WHU, celebrating their shared vision for excellence and their commitment to global education.