Celebrating Legacy and Future at Tianjin University

On the evening of September 28, Tianjin University staged a large-scale gala at its Peiyangyuan Campus to mark three significant occasions: the 76th National Day of the People’s Republic of China, the university’s 130th anniversary, and the arrival of the new freshman class.

The event brought together over 1500 faculty, students, alumni, and distinguished guests, including Party Secretary Yang Xianjin, President Chai Liyuan and several noted academicians. The evening performance blended music, dance, drama, and recitations to highlight the university’s traditions, spirit, and vision for the future.

The gala opened with “TJU Youth,” a high-energy performance by students, young faculty, and guest artists, capturing the vitality and aspirations of a new generation. A centerpiece of the program was the premiere of the original musical composition “130 Years of Fame,” which traced the university’s 130-year journey from its Peiyang heritage to its present role as a leading global institution.

Throughout the evening, poetry recitations and dramatic sketches underscored the transmission of values across generations. In “Here We Open the Door to a Strong Nation,” alumni symbolically passed down five “keys” representing the enduring values of Tianjin University, Advancing Education for National Strength, Seeking Truth from Facts, Rigorous Scholarship, Patriotism and Dedication, as a pledge to carry the mission forward.

In the final, the audience rose to sing the Tianjin University Anthem and “Ode to the Motherland,” conducted by Professor Ren Baoping, affirming the community’s unity and patriotic commitment.

According to organizers, nearly half of the program was created by current students and faculty, reflecting the creativity and enthusiasm of the campus. Freshman Li Mengxi noted that the event strengthened her identification with the university community and reinforced her sense of responsibility as a TJU student.

The evening also featured an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding faculty, further underscoring the university’s dedication to excellence as it embarks on its next chapter of development.

By: Qin Mian