In 2024, memorable moments from the Sun Yat-sen University community showcased the achievements and vitality of the year. Let’s revisit the remarkable highlights that shape this extraordinary year.

Ⅰ. The Grand Centennial Anniversary

2024 witnessed SYSU commemorating its 100th anniversary with a series of spectacular events.

General Secretary Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to SYSU on November 12, which expressed his earnest hopes for SYSU’s future at this new starting point. His words filled with warmth, further ignited SYSU’s sense of duty and sense of mission, and strengthened SYSU’s confidence and determination to accelerate the building of a world-class university with Chinese characteristics.

On November 12, SYSU held the Celebration Conference for the 100th Anniversary of SYSU and Innovation-Driven Development Forum on south campus in Guangzhou. Over 5,500 people from governments, universities, institutions and organizations across the country as well as the SYSU alumni, faculty and student representatives attended the event.

Coinciding with the 100th Anniversary, the University History Museum was officially opened to the public on November 9. With letters, manuscripts, works, audio and video documents and other precious historical materials over the past century, a brand new exhibition showcases the glorious history and achievements of SYSU.

The opening ceremony of the University History Museum

With an impressive light show, the grand opening ceremony of the University Museum took place on the evening of November 9, officially opening its door to the public.

The Light Show at the opening ceremony of the University Museum

On November 12, SYSU held an evening gala to celebrate its 100th birthday. Over 1,100 SYSU faculty members and students, together with alumni and guests from all over the world, participated in the event, showcasing the university's achievements in talent cultivation, technological innovation, national development, and cultural preservation.

II. Active exchanges and collaborations in 2024

In 2024, SYSU vigorously fosters cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and promotes exchanges and collaborations with universities and institutions around the world.

On October 14, Sun Yat-sen University Institute of Advanced Studies Hong Kong was officially inaugurated, which marks the first comprehensive research institute established by a mainland university in Hong Kong. The institute aims to build an academic hub with international demonstration effects, an East-West bridge and a center of top global talents by leveraging Hong Kong’s advantageous location.

Plaque unveiling ceremony of Sun Yat-sen University Institute of Advanced Studies Hong Kong

On November 11, themed "Fostering a Shared Future: Embracing Inclusion and Innovation," SYSU hosted the prestigious Global Forum of University Presidents. Gathered at the forum were presidents from 43 prestigious universities across the globe, heads of authoritative organizations, associations, and alliances, along with nearly a hundred experts and scholars, who delved into in-depth discussions on the roles and responsibilities of universities in today's diverse and interconnected world.

Group photo of the guests present

In 2024, SYSU actively engaged in international exchanges.

From November 17 to 24, President Song Gao led a delegation on a visit to Italy and France, where they successfully signed several significant cooperation agreements with local universities.

The delegation visits the Chinese Embassy in France.

On November 19, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), along with a delegation from the region, paid a visit to SYSU.

Dr. Kongjun Zhu,Chairman of the University Council, holds talks with Sheikh Saud and his delegation.

III. Alumni’s Passionate Devotion

The first Spring Reception of the centenary year was held in Hong Kong on April 20. During this event, SYSU took the significant step of conferring “University-Level Honorary Titles” in Hong Kong for the first time.

Additionally, the cooperation and development conference was held in Qingdao City, Shandong Province on June 16, providing a platform for unity and further development of the university.

The alumni of SYSU demonstrated their profound affection and dedication to SYSU in a plethora of ways.

A considerable number of alumni made generous donations, with Lin Bin and Liu Xiangdong being notable examples.

Alumni Lin Bin and Liu Xiangdong donate 100 Million yuan to the university.

Some alumni embarked on audacious adventures, carrying the school flag to the summits of Mount Everest, the South Pole, and the highest peaks across different continents. Meanwhile, Luo Min made a unique and touching gesture by expressing love for the alma mater at the bottom of the sea in Palau.

IV. A Year Filled with Vitality

2024 was also a year of excellence for individuals among the SYSU community. The members of SYSU achieved remarkable feats in the fields of sports, academics and art.

In the 2023-2024 CUVA China University Volleyball League, the SYSU men’s team decisively claimed the championship titles.

From August 22 to 25, SYSU students once again demonstrated their academic prowess by consecutively winning the championship in the 10th National Competition for Undergraduate on Innovation Research & Experimental Design in Basic Medical Sciences.

2024 was a year full of excellence, connection and unforgettable moments, during which SYSU’s centenary stories were spread across the globe. Looking ahead, we anticipate that these highlights will serve as a solid foundation for continuous progress and innovation in the future. Here's to an inspiring and promising 2025!