Peking University, July 18, 2021: Following the graduation and degree awarding ceremonies for undergraduates and postgraduates of the 2021 cohort, a third degree awarding ceremony was held on July 14, inviting members of the Class of 2020 who were previously unable to return to campus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. PKU offered the Class of 2020 a perpetual invitation to attend a degree awarding ceremony at their convenience. Prior to this, some graduates of the 2020 cohort attended in-person ceremonies either on May 4, 2021 or July 2, 2020.
PKU Council Chair Qiu Shuiping and President Hao Ping were present at the ceremony, together with over 2000 members of the Class of 2020. The ceremony was presided over by PKU Vice President Gong Qihuang.
As the ceremony began, a special video reflecting the unforgettable moments and regrets during the pandemic was screened. Graduates shared stories of their growth and fruits harvested through their various jobs as well as their plans for further studies. They expressed gratitude towards their alma mater as well as their newly fostered belief of forging ahead with times.
President Hao welcomed students with an introduction of the development and changes to the university in the past year, sending sincere wishes to the students. He hopes that regardless of the graduates’ jobs or locations, they will continue to be PKUers with aspirations, skills and responsibilities. With their roots in China, they will continue to carry forward a century of glorious tradition, contribute to the country with wisdom, and serve the society with a pioneering spirit.
Lu Lin, president of Peking University Sixth Hospital, spoke on behalf of faculty members. He congratulated and expressed his blessings to the graduates, advising them not to waver in the face of temptation or compromise during difficulties. Lu added that the graduates should follow the original intention and not give up on their ideals and principles due to temporary gains and losses.
Liu Yang, a graduate representative from the School of Physics, expressed his gratitude to PKU for the concern and care amid the epidemic. As he embarked on his new journey, he intended to carry forward the spirit of Peking University, to live up to his youth, fearless of difficulties, struggles, and challenges.
During the ceremony, faculty members and graduates burst out singing “My Love for Yanyuan Garden”, a song never fails to elicit feelings of nostalgia and warmth in the heart of every PKU student. Bolstered by the unwavering strength and affection of their alma mater, the Class of 2020 will walk forward, firmly and boldly. PKU will always be their strongest ally as they embark on journeys to conquer obstacles and achieve greater heights.
Written by: Lee Xin Ying Rachel, June Tan Rui Min
Edited by: Huang Weijian, Christopher Mahony
Photo credit to: PKU Media Center
Source:PKU News (Chinese)
