On March 19, 2024, Southwest Minzu University (SMU) held an event called “Alumni Leading the Way: Alumni Lecture on Comprehensive Political Theory by Guoen Li.” The combination of interviews and lectures effectively engaged the faculty and student body.

Professor Guoen Liu, Dean of the Institute for Global Health and Development at Peking University and professor at PKU’s School of Government, gave a lecture on “Science, Humanity, and Economics.”

Leaders of SMU such as Ning Zhang, Secretary of the SMU Party Committee, and Yubin Li, the President, attended the event. Members of the student work leadership group, party secretaries of various colleges, student affairs officials, counselors, advisors, and representatives of over 2,000 students listened to the lecture. The event was also broadcast online at three campuses with nearly 30,000 people attending.

Broad outlook and dedication

Centering around the theme of the event, Professor Liu shared his understanding of science, humanity, economics, and their interconnectedness. He also expressed his thoughts on how to respond to globalization and develop a shared outlook on the future.

Professor Liu emphasized that as university students, “never underestimate your own potential.” He urged them to develop an “independent, cognitive personality” to unleash their intellectual potential and advised them to “broaden their horizons, learn to be humble, and strive to seek the intersection of values of different cultures.” He also encouraged students that “as long as you dare to pursue excellence, anything is possible.” He hoped that students would approach life curiously, question things, and form their own opinions.

Professor Liu’s lecture, with its lofty perspectives, broad vision, deep thinking, and sincere sentiment, brought forth profound insights to the faculty and students.

Wise words set remarkable standards

During the lecture, Wei Li, a faculty member of the School of Mathematics at SMU, conducted an on-site interview with Professor Liu.

Professor Liu’s mentor, Professor Zhuoyun Wang, former member of the SMU Party Committee and Vice Dean of SMU, and his classmate, Qichang Li, were also invited to the event.

They recalled the struggles and triumphs of their youth, the enduring bond with their alma mater, the years on campus, and the emotional connection with teachers, students, and classmates. Professor Liu was moved to tears several times, and the attending students and faculty were also deeply touched.

With gratification towards his alma mater and aspirations of serving the country, Professor Liu encouraged the present students to integrate their personal “small goals” into the “grand blueprint” of the Party and country. He urged them to undertake responsibilities to actively contribute to this era of great change.

Serving the country, honoring the alma mater; never forgetting original aspirations

During the lecture, students from the School of Arts at SMU viewed Professor Liu as the archetype, depicting his inspiring journey through three scenes: “Walking on mountainous paths,” “Embarking on the road of learning,” and “Exploring the path of national healthcare reform.”

Moving forward, the younger generation should work to serve the people, and the country, and honor their alma mater accordingly. In working towards the greater good, they should look to the Party for guidance.

(Interpreted by Waverly Shi)