Midsummer descends on Zijingang, cool blue waters send a refreshing breeze, as all things flourish together in grace

By West Lake, at Zhejiang University

A group of international students steps into the tapestry of the world

On the afternoon of June 24^th, the Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2026 International Students at Zhejiang University was held. Vice Chairman of the University Council, heads of member units of the International Student Management Work Committee, heads of participating colleges (departments), faculty representatives, alumni representatives, and all international graduates of the Class of 2026 attended the ceremony.

FU Qiang, Vice Chairman of the University Council, extended the warmest congratulations to all graduates on behalf of the university. He reviewed the students' journey of traveling far across continents to study in Hangzhou—from the unfamiliarity and curiosity upon entering the campus to the confidence and poise with which they now stand at the center of the graduation stage, noting that ZJU has become more diverse and open because of them. "You have injected vibrant multicultural elements into the university and will continue to carry forward the spirit of 'Seeking Truth and Pursuing Innovation' on the global stage," he said. He put forward three expectations for the graduates: Persist in lifelong learning and continuously expand the boundaries of knowledge; Act as ambassadors of civilization to bridge the hearts and minds of people across cultures; Bravely shoulder the responsibilities of the era, using professional expertise to serve global development. FU Qiang also mentioned that Zhejiang University will celebrate its 130th anniversary in 2027, and sincerely invited all international alumni to return to their alma mater then, to “celebrate the anniversary together and rekindle the bonds of friendship formed across borders!"

In March, the selection activity for "My Favorite International Student Supervisor" was held. Thirty-eight supervisors from 23 colleges participated, and ultimately, 10 winning supervisors and 10 nomination award recipients were selected. Amidst warm applause, the winning supervisors stepped onto the stage to attend the award ceremony.

Professor Susan Welburn, the representative of international student supervisors and Executive Dean of the Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJE), compared supervisors to a "compass"—not deciding the direction for students, but offering support when they feel lost. “The best guidance is never a one-way output, but mutual fulfillment between teachers and students. I hope you all can promote international cooperation and scientific research progress with a diverse perspective.”

Graduate student representative Machingura Genius Brendon, a master's student majoring in Control Science and Engineering from Zimbabwe, shared his experience of seeing his research and development achievements implemented, standing on the podium of international academic conferences, and winning awards in competitions. "What ZJU taught us goes far beyond textbook knowledge; it is the fundamental spirit of 'Seeking Truth and Pursuing Innovation.' In the future, when telling China's stories on the world stage, please say with pride: "I am a ZJUer!"

Alumni representative Neli Akhobadze, a Georgian alumna and Class of 2022 Master of Chinese History, returned to her alma mater. She recalled her experience of recording a commentary video on modern and contemporary Chinese history at the Nanhu Red Boat, which received an enthusiastic response overseas. She also shared her story of returning to her home country after graduation to found the Caucasus Association for Chinese Studies and compile the Georgian version of 《An Overview of China Studies》. "It was ZJU that gave me a view of real China, and now I want to pass this vision on to more people. You are not just international students, but the bridges connecting China and the world," she said.

At the ceremony, the alumni liaisons for the Class of 2026 international students were officially appointed. 19 outstanding graduates from 17 countries, including Armenia, Australia, Costa Rica, Malaysia, Pakistan, Russia and Thailand will serve as a bond linking their alma mater with international alumni across the globe.

The solemn and profound Zhejiang University Anthem resounded, its melody echoing through the theater, celebrating this grand celebration of youth together.

From the West Lake to every corner of the globe

May every international graduate carry the starlight and warmth of ZJU

Acting as ambassadors of mutual learning among civilizations, and actors that change the world!

Translation: Praise