On the morning of June 22, 2024, the National School of Development (NSD) and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) at Peking University held a grand commencement ceremony for the class of 2024 at the Peking University Centennial Lecture Hall. Graduates from NSD's undergraduate and dual-degree programs in economics, master's and doctoral programs (including Ph.D. students from the Institute of New Structural Economics), and MBA, EMBA, and DPS programs, as well as doctoral and master's graduates from ISSCAD, gathered on the PKU campus with their families and teachers to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Group Photo of Faculty and Students
At 7:00 AM, the tree-lined avenue of the Centennial Lecture Hall became a vibrant sea of graduation gowns. Guided by the diligent efforts of volunteers and administrative staff, the 2024 graduates of the National School of Development and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development lined up with anticipation, ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives.
In front of the plaza, the photography team diligently captured, focused, and framed these precious moments, immortalizing the joyous gathering of graduates and teachers adorned in their resplendent attire. Today, longtime mentors and classmates reveled in their accomplishments, celebrating their graduation in elegant robes. Each group photo, a heartfelt memento, encapsulated the deep bonds and cherished memories forged over the years.
At 8:30 AM, the Centennial Lecture Hall resounded with enthusiastic applause as the distinguished teaching and research team members of the National School of Development and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development made their grand entrance.
The 2024 Graduation Ceremony was formally inaugurated as Professor Lei Xiaoyan, Party Secretary and Chair of the Academic Committee of the National School of Development, ascended the stage to deliver the opening remarks.
Professor Lei Xiaoyan
With the majestic strains of the National Anthem of the People's Republic of China filling the hall, the entire assembly of faculty and students stood solemnly, singing the anthem with pride and reverence.
Dean Huang Yiping began by extending his heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates. He shared his personal reflections on the virtue of patience, emphasizing that it is both a skill and a quality, particularly vital in an era where economic growth is driven by innovation. Patience, he explained, involves a proactive and determined attitude, rather than a compromise with reality. He acknowledged that maintaining patience is exceptionally challenging, especially in the face of adversity, and encouraged graduates to view problems from multiple perspectives. He underscored that behind patience lies the unwavering support of responsibility, passion, and dedication.
Professor Huang Yiping
Associate Professor Huang Wei, speaking as the faculty representative, delivered a heartfelt message centered around the theme of "Return". He expressed three sincere hopes for the graduates: First, in the rapidly changing society, he urged them to return to self, embracing the courage to change. Second, in this complex and chaotic era, he encouraged them to return to their roots, steadfastly holding onto their original intentions. Third, in their pursuit of excellence, he hoped they would return to society, serving their country. He concluded with a heartfelt wish that the spirit of Peking University and the teachings of the National School of Development would serve as a guiding light, continually accompanying the graduates on their journey forward.
Associate Professor Huang Wei
Following this, eight representatives from the graduating class of the National School of Development and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development delivered their speeches. From the National School of Development, the presenters included doctoral graduate representative Huang Beichen, undergraduate representative Nie Hongyu, dual-degree undergraduate representative Li Runfen, MBA representative Wang Zhiqiu, EMBA representative Li Pengfei, and DPS representative Xu Yuanqu. Representing the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development were doctoral graduate Erfa Iqbal and master's graduate Mutadhid Humaid Ahmed Al Habsi.
Doctoral graduate representative Huang Beichen
Undergraduate representative Nie Hongyu
Dual-degree undergraduate representative Li Runfen
MBA representative Wang Zhiqiu
EMBA representative Li Pengfei
DPS representative Xu Yuanqu
Doctoral Graduate Representative from ISSCAD, Erfa Iqbal
Master's Graduate Representative from ISSCAD, Mutadhid Humaid Ahmed Al Habsi
On their academic journey, students have dedicated their finest years and most precious time, gathering the most invaluable treasures of knowledge and experience. They reflected on personal growth, academic pursuits, and the meaning of life, revisiting their unforgettable time at the National School of Development and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development. They reminisced about the enriching moments spent absorbing wisdom in the classroom, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the meticulous guidance and support of their mentors. They articu
lated the most significant milestones in their quest for knowledge and research, highlighting the profound lessons and personal growth they achieved. Looking ahead, they shared their thoughtful reflections, hopeful aspirations, and unyielding courage to face the future.
The graduation ceremony of the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) featured distinguished speakers, including Zhao Fengtao, Vice Administrator of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), and Xu Kai, Deputy Dean of the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) of the Ministry of Commerce.
Zhao Fengtao, Vice Administrator of the China International Development Cooperation Agency
In his address, Vice Administrator Zhao Fengtao commended the graduates of ISSCAD for their deep connection to the Institute and the Chinese people. He noted that these graduates have become essential contributors to their respective countries' economic and social development. Zhao emphasized that they are actively involved in the global endeavor to build a community with a shared future for mankind. He encouraged the graduates to continue embracing their mission, seizing opportunities, and contributing their expertise and energy. Zhao also reaffirmed CIDCA’s commitment to supporting the ongoing development of ISSCAD.
Deputy Dean Xu Kai emphasized in his address that ISSCAD meticulously designs its curriculum and appoints distinguished faculty, ensuring that students receive a high-quality learning experience through both classroom instruction and field visits. These initiatives aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of China. China is dedicated to playing an active role in South-South cooperation by sharing knowledge and experience and collaboratively addressing global challenges to build a world characterized by lasting peace and shared prosperity. He expressed his hope that the graduates will serve as bridges of friendship, promoting mutual cooperation and exchange.
Xu Kai, Deputy Dean of the Academy for International Business Officials of the Ministry of Commerce
This year's commencement ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr. Chen Dongsheng, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Taikang Insurance Group. In his heartfelt address, Chen shared three personal stories that shaped his initial aspirations and emphasized the significance of pursuing one's ideals with unwavering dedication. He remarked, “If you do not dedicate yourself to your ideals, they remain mere fantasies, idle dreams, or illusions. You must tirelessly pursue your ideals. Even if you are just a grain of sand in the vast ocean, you should shine brightly. Persistently chase your life goals and strive to reach the shore of success—that is your original aspiration.” Chen poignantly highlighted that staying true to one's original aspiration ensures that, despite changes and adjustments in life’s journey, the underlying logic remains consistent. This continuity signifies the ongoing extension of one’s ideals. He concluded with a heartfelt wish for all graduates, expressing his hope that by holding fast to their initial aspirations, they will achieve both career success and personal fulfillment.
Chen Dongsheng, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Taikang Insurance Group
Following the address, Dean Huang Yiping presented Mr. Chen Dongsheng with a commemorative plaque in appreciation of his inspiring commencement speech.
Before the degree conferment ceremony began, graduates and their families were treated to a nostalgic short film, "Shining Days" , which vividly brought to life the cherished memories of their academic journey. In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the National School of Development (NSD) in 2024, a special short film titled "Tribute to 30 Years: Your Journey" was shown, taking everyone on a poignant trip down memory lane, showcasing the profound strides and transformations the institute has made over the past three decades.
As Professor Lei Xiaoyan announced the commencement of the degree conferment ceremony, a wave of anticipation swept through the graduates. The ceremony unfolded with grandeur, as degrees were conferred upon doctoral and master's graduates from the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD), doctoral and master's graduates from NSD, doctoral graduates in New Structural Economics, DPS doctoral graduates, and graduates from NSD’s undergraduate, EMBA, MBA, and dual-degree programs in economics. Graduates stepped onto the stage, their faces illuminated with pride, to receive their hard-earned degree certificates, capturing this milestone moment with commemorative photos alongside their mentors.
Following the conferment of degrees, the professors joined the graduates on stage. Together, they lifted their voices in a heartfelt rendition of "Ode to the Motherland" . The vibrant and majestic melody echoed their shared dreams and aspirations for the future, instilling a sense of hope and determination that moved everyone present.
As the poignant farewell moment arrived, professors and administrative staff formed a line, waving and bidding warm goodbyes to each graduate as they passed. The graduates, filled with a mix of joy and sorrow, bid farewell to the mentors who had guided them through their academic journey. These moments of parting were deeply emotional, etching everlasting memories of camaraderie and affection that would forever remain in their hearts.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, all teaching and research staff, staff members, and volunteers gathered for a commemorative group photo.
