Peking University celebrates 120th anniversary

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China’s Peking University (PKU) marked the 120th anniversary of its founding at the university’s main gymnasium, the Khoo Teck Puat Sports Complex, on Friday, under the theme "Integrity, Creativity and Futurity."

The 120th anniversary of PKU commemorative celebration /CGTN Photo

Officials from the education ministry, 246 presidents from the world’s top universities from 44 countries, along with alumni and overseas friends joined the commemorative celebration.

Lin Huiqing, Vice Minister of Education, speaks at a commemorative event marking the 120th founding anniversary of Peking University on May 4, 2018. /PKU Photo

Lin Huiqing, Vice Minister of Education, applauded the university for its influence and competitiveness over the past 120 years and urged the teachers and students to learn from Chinese President Xi Jinping’s advice.

During his visit to PKU on Wednesday, Xi called for building world-class universities with Chinese characteristics to prepare people to join the socialist cause. He emphasized the political direction of the university’s development, as well as in cultivating high-quality faculty and nurturing talent.

Lin Jianhua, President of Peking University, delivers a speech at the celebration. /CGTN Photo

In his speech at the event, PKU president Lin Jianhua recalled the university's development and reminded the audience of its obligation to build a world’s top-notch university and advance human civilization.

Among those who also spoke at the occasion were Qiu Yong, president of Tsinghua University, also based in the Chinese capital Beijing and Professor Peter Salovey, president of Yale University in the US.

Professor Peter Salovey, President of Yale University, delivers a speech at the celebration. /PKU Photo

Graduats are honored with May 4th Award. /CGTN Photo

Distinguished professors and instructors presented to nine graduates the May 4 Award – the highest honor for PKU graduates.

Alumni representatives return to PKU for the 120th anniversary. /CGTN Photo

The university’s alumni came back to the campus with memories of their time as students and they joined other participants in a chorus song called “Yan Yuan Qing” at the end of the celebration.

Founded as the Imperial University of Peking in 1898, Peking University is China’s oldest higher learning institution. Because of its vital role in the historic May Fourth Movement in 1919, the university celebrates its anniversary on May 4 every year.

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