As we welcome 2026, Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU) embarks on an exciting new chapter. The new year brings fresh hopes and goals for our community, inspiring us to reach new heights together.
This past year has been pivotal for SYSU. We reflected on years of dedication and hard work as we enter the second century of our institution. The leadership of LIU Chenggong and GAO Song has set a spirited tone for our journey ahead.
Our university is dedicated to embodying excellence in higher education. In 2025, we began to implement our strategic goals for the upcoming years, focusing on the visions laid out by General Secretary Xi Jinping. Our aim is to develop SYSU into a world-class institution that showcases Chinese characteristics.
Leadership and governance have taken significant strides. With the principles of Xi Jinping Thought guiding us, we’ve woven Party leadership into our entire framework. This commitment has allowed us to make notable progress in areas like the “Double Creation” initiative, enhancing the role of SYSU as a national model in educational governance.
In our quest for innovation, we have built robust academic structures that encourage interdisciplinary research. For instance, our new collaborations have led to significant breakthroughs, such as the utilization of AI in education. The success of our “Meeting AI-o1” introductory course illustrates a strong commitment to preparing our students for the demands of the modern landscape.
Recent statistics paint a promising picture. In 2022 alone, SYSU achieved the highest number of projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, marking an increase in both quality and quantity. This upward trend signals a bright future for research initiatives and innovation.
Moreover, our university actively supports national development goals. We have established think tanks to drive economic and social progress, particularly in the vital Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Our affiliated hospitals have also made meaningful contributions to public health, serving nearly 200 million people last year.
As we progress, we recognize the importance of community. Our alumni have been integral to SYSU’s achievements, and their support fuels our continued success. We owe our milestones to the collective effort of staff, students, and friends from various sectors.
As we step into this new year, let’s unite around our shared vision and determination. Together, we can turn the aspirations of our leadership into real outcomes, strengthening our position as a top institution and contributing to a prosperous future for our nation.
Wishing everyone a happy and healthy New Year! Let’s work together towards continued success and advancement.
LIU Chenggong and GAO Song
