To celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Shenzhen University (SZU), the “Embark on a New Journey at SZU” Alumni Homecoming was held on September 27, 2025, at the Yuehai and Lihu campuses. The celebration featured a range of activities, including a ceremony, a carnival, and a gala evening. In addition, various colleges (schools), such as the College of Continuing Education, organized their own alumni gatherings. Alumni returning from near and far revisited cherished memories of their youth, while current students and faculty enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the university.
Honoring the past, carrying forward the SZU Spirit, and shaping the future together
“Today we gather by Wenshan Lake, at the foot of Dujuan Mountain, to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Shenzhen University. Welcome home!” With these words, President Mao Junfa of Shenzhen University extended a warm welcome speech to alumni returning for the occasion. He announced that, starting this year, Shenzhen University will hold an annual homecoming on September 27, and he called on all members of the SZU community to seize the moment and strive tirelessly, contributing to the high-quality development of higher education in the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone and to the prosperity of the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the alumni, Mr. Ma Zhongkang, General Manager of the Guizhou Branch of China Cinda Asset Management Co., Ltd., said that Shenzhen University has become a source of pride for all alumni. He also noted that as the living calling card of the university, each alum is making efforts and achievements in their fields, which are both a vivid testament to personal growth and a heartfelt tribute to the education they received here.
On the occasion of its 42nd anniversary, Shenzhen University reaffirmed its commitment to openness and collaboration, continuously expanding partnerships with local governments, enterprises, and peer institutions. At the ceremony, Shenzhen University signed cooperation agreements with the People’s Government of Nanshan District, Shenzhen Exchange Group Co., Ltd., Hisense Visual Technology Co., Ltd. and Xizang University, marking the beginning of a new chapter of collaborative development.
Faculty, students, alumni, and renowned artists share the stage to uphold the SZU spirit
In the evening, Shenzhen University hosted the “Embark on a New Journey at SZU” Gala as part of its 42nd Anniversary Alumni Homecoming. The gala revolved around youthful melodies and the SZU spirit. Through a series of 22 music and dance programs, it showcased the perseverance passed down through generations of the SZU community and the vibrant vitality in the new era.
Jiang Donghua, an alum from the Class of 2014 at the College of Electronics and Information Engineering, recalled that his four years at Shenzhen University were deeply fulfilling. Here, he met many friends, encountered wonderful teachers, and forged lasting ties with SZU and the city. He added, “The wall inscribed with the motto of ‘Down-to-earth’ left a mark on me from the very first day I arrived. The knowledge I gained here and that motto have truly become the foundation of my life, laying a solid base for both my career and personal growth.”
Alumni carnival awakens youthful DNA
The carnival, held simultaneously on two campuses, lasted from the afternoon until 8 p.m. A gentle breeze brushed the campus, yet it was the alumni’s passion that outshone the autumn sun. Between rows of bustling stalls, the joy of new friendships mingled with the warmth of old reunions.
At the Frisbee Plaza on the Yuehai Campus, crowds gathered in excitement. Eighty student clubs set up booths arranged in the shapes of the letters “S,” “Z” and “U.” Long lines formed at the Frisbee Club’s booth for a hands-on throwing experience, while the telescope on display at the Astronomy Society’s booth drew the most attention. The Rowing Team’s booth was also a popular stop, where participants competed on rowing machines to “sprint” 200 meters.
On stage, campus bands and dance troupes delivered high-energy performances, while flash mobs captivated audiences, including many international students. Theo and Yann, two students from France, remarked, “The atmosphere here is so amazing!” Meanwhile, food stalls delighted alumni by rekindling youthful memories through familiar tastes.
The Zhikuai Sports Stadium on the Lihu Campus was also vibrant. From the Draw & Guess and ring toss games to perfume-making, engaging activities attracted faculty, students, and alumni alike.
That afternoon, the university also hosted the “New Lihu, New Aspirations” Alumni Forum, where university leaders and alumni representatives shared memories and envisioned the future together. Later, the Opening Ceremony of the “City and University: Strings of Symbiosis · Blossoms of the Future” Public Art Season was hosted at the Lihu Campus. Three newly installed sculptures donated by renowned artists, including Li Xiangqun, were introduced to alumni and guests.
To welcome alumni back to SZU, various colleges (schools) across the university also organized diverse and creative reunion activities.
