Shandong University (SDU) held its 2025 opening ceremony on Sept 27, welcoming more than 20,000 freshmen.

The event brought together first-year students, university leaders, faculty, and alumni in a lively and inspiring celebration. Performances by dancers, singers, and choirs filled the venue with energy, while moments of solemnity, including the national anthem and the presentation of the university charter, highlighted the significance of this new beginning.

Speakers at the ceremony, including students, faculty, and alumni, shared heartfelt reflections and insights from their own experiences. They encouraged the new students to approach learning with curiosity, nurture their creativity, and apply their knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions to society and the nation.

SDU President Li Shucai extended a warm welcome to the freshmen and expressed sincere gratitude to their parents and teachers for their support. Reflecting on the university's more than 120-year history, he highlighted SDU's dedication to serving the nation, nurturing generations of scholars, and guiding countless students in their academic pursuits. He encouraged students to embrace responsibility, pursue broad knowledge and innovation, leverage artificial intelligence as a tool for growth, and develop resilience through consistent effort.

Alumnus Ning Guang, an expert in endocrinology and metabolic diseases, also shared his reflections on SDU's legacy as a pioneer in China's modern higher education. He spoke of the importance of intellectual growth during university years, emphasizing that higher education reshapes the mind, expands knowledge, and sharpens critical thinking. Ning encouraged students to make the most of their time at SDU, hone their skills, and channel their energy and creativity toward contributing to China's modernization.

Even rain during the ceremony couldn't dampen these freshmen's enthusiasm. With excitement and determination, they embraced the shared promise of a new journey at Shandong University.

Li Shucai, President of SDU, inspires freshmen with his vision for their academic journey. [Photo/Shandong University]

SDU alumnus Ning Guang inspires freshmen to pursue knowledge and make an impact. [Photo/Shandong University]

Excited freshmen pack a venue at SDU's 2025 opening ceremony on Sept 27. [Photo/Shandong University]

Excited freshmen pack a venue at SDU's 2025 opening ceremony on Sept 27. [Photo/Shandong University]

Excited freshmen pack a venue at SDU's 2025 opening ceremony on Sept 27. [Photo/Shandong University]

Performers sing among the crowds at the opening ceremony, waving small flags to the music. [Photo/Shandong University]

Freshmen eagerly watch the performances, waving glow sticks and applauding with clappers. [Photo/Shandong University]