Over a span of seventy years, Wuhan Sports University (WHSU) has faced challenges head-on, the melodies never fading away; for seven decades, the torch of education has been passed on, guiding us in our unwavering journey forward. The 70th Anniversary High-Quality Development of Wuhan Sports University was held in the school's gymnasium on October 18, 2023.

In the gymnasium, the gymnasium, a vibrant celebration unfolded as guests from both China and abroad came together with great enthusiasm, filling the atmosphere with a palpable sense of festivity. Suspended above the podium, a banner proudly displayed the message: "Continuing seven decades of glory, dedicated to advancing sports for the country, relentless pursuit of becoming a prominent, world-class applied research sports university in China!" – A striking banner encapsulates the distinct educational ethos and resolute academic objectives that have defined WHSU throughout its seven-decade history.

At the resounding notes of the national anthem, the conference kicked off at 9 AM.

Liu Xuerong, on behalf of the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee and the provincial people's government, delivered a speech, extending his warm congratulations to WHSU on its 70th-anniversary celebration. He expressed a firm commitment to supporting WHSU's development and assured that the obligations and duties associated with the partnership between the General Administration of Sport of China and the People's Government of Hubei Province will be diligently fulfilled, providing unwavering support to the university. He pledged wholehearted support to ensure that WHSU achieves significant breakthroughs in its pursuit of "Double First-Class" status and expedites its transformation into a leading, world-class applied research sports university. He expressed confidence in the university's ability to contribute its expertise in sports and harness the power of sports in building a preeminent sports nation and a robust educational system while promoting the Healthy China initiative.

Long Shengjun, Deputy Director of the Science and Education Department of the General Administration of Sport of China, shared a congratulatory letter from the General Administration of Sport of China. In the congratulatory letter, it is hoped that the university, taking advantage of its 70th anniversary, will steadfastly follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, actively contribute to the development of a great education nation, a leading sports nation, and a healthy China. The university is called upon to remain progressive and strive towards its goal of becoming a leading, world-class applied research sports university in China. The letter conveys the expectation that WHSU will make fresh and significant contributions to the development of education and sports in the country.

Li Yuanyuan, Party Secretary of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and Member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, delivered a speech. In his speech, he emphasized HUST's commitment to forging a stronger partnership with WHSU, given that both institutions are situated on Luoyu Road and enjoy the same picturesque scenery of East Lake. He highlighted their shared goal of collaborating in various fields to create a new chapter in their relationship. Their joint efforts will contribute to the national objective of building a strong educational system and greater sports strength and fostering a healthy China, all at a higher level of service.

In his address, Cao Weidong, Party Secretary of Beijing Sport University (BSU), stressed that the 70th anniversary is a significant milestone and marks a new beginning for the university's future endeavors. At this new starting point, BSU is committed to strengthening its partnership with WHSU. Working together hand in hand, they will expand their exchanges and contribute collectively to the building of a strong educational system, a major sports nation, and a healthy China.

President Hao Fanghua of Central China Normal University (CCNU) addressed the event, underscoring that as close-knit siblings and unwavering partners on this journey, the university will continue to move forward hand in hand with WHSU. They will deepen their collaboration and continue their dedicated efforts to advance their shared goal of becoming institutions in line with the Double First-Class University Plan. Together, the two universities will contribute to the comprehensive advancement of the Chinese path to modernization and national rejuvenation, forging a new chapter of unity and progress.

Vice PresidentShi Jun of High Point University addressed the event, sharing her impressions while walking on the campus of WHSU and exploring the breathtaking surroundings of East Lake. She was struck by the fresh air, the elegant environment, the vibrant sports atmosphere, the cultural richness, the deep-rooted history, the open-minded educational approach, and the contagious enthusiasm of both the faculty and students. WHSU is not only the birthplace of champions but also at the forefront of sports technology and a hub for the dissemination of sports culture. She extended her warmest wishes for an even brighter future for WHSU.

In his speech, President Wang Deqiang of Yunnan Normal University mentioned the university's sincere hope to carry forward its profound bond with WHSU. They will continuously advance various collaborations, mutually inspiring and cooperating with one another, and joining forces on the journey to contribute to the development of a great nation in education and sports. They aim to write a new page of the book in higher education and the sports industry on the Chinese path to modernization.

Chen Jiping, Party Secretary of WHSU, presided over the conference.

Lyu Wangang, Deputy Party Secretary and President of WHSU, delivered a conference report entitled "Forging Ahead over the Past Seventy Years, Contributing to the Country with Sports in a New Era". He emphasized the vitality of the past seventy years and the unceasing efforts of generations of WHSU community. Upholding the school motto of "Fair Play, Courage, Honesty, Perseverance, Critical Thinking and Acting", we are resolutely moving forward, dedicated to serving our nation through sports. Through enduring challenges and nurturing future talents, we have established a distinctive educational characteristic. Building upon this new phase of development, Lyu Wangang affirmed that WHSU will continue to be guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. By keeping the country's fundamental interests in mind, excelling in two vital aspects, and committing to excellence, we aim to create a new chapter of high-quality development. Our unwavering efforts will contribute to our vision of becoming a leading, world-class research-oriented sports university, making significant contributions to the realization of a strong nation in education, sports, and a healthy China.

Alumni representative Jiang Zhixue, a national educational inspector and former director of the Science and Education Department of the General Administration of Sport of China, addressed the event. He expressed his gratitude for the nurturing care provided by his alma mater and the unwavering dedication of the teachers. He declared his commitment to continue to support and closely follow the future development of the university together with fellow alumni, with the hope that the university's ambitions for "upgrading its nature" and becoming a university on the "Double First-Class" program will be achieved at an early date.

As the representative of the teaching staff, Professor Zhao Fuxue, a distinguished member of the National Major Talent Program for Young Scholars, took the stage to address the audience. He pledged his unwavering commitment to his mission, the preservation of his educational ideals, the enhancement of his teaching competence, and the carrying of the torch of "nurturing mind and body" from his predecessors through his actions. He plans to carry forward the spirit and honor of WHSU from generation to generation.

"70 years have elapsed, as the sands of time slowly recede, yet the enduring spirit of the Lantern continues to shine brightly, leading our path into the future!" The collective speech of the youth student representatives resounded with enthusiasm, packed with resolute commitment. They made a powerful declaration, vowing to contribute to the country's strength and serve the nation through the realm of sports.

Following the conclusion of the High-Quality Development Conference, the entire assembly had the chance to collectively appreciate the exhibition featuring the school's teaching achievements.







