Mr. Chairman, Mr. President, UIC teachers and students, honourable guests and friends,

Good afternoon!

First of all, please allow me, on behalf of all the UIC Honorary Fellows conferred at this ceremony, to thank UIC for awarding us this honour. It is our pleasure and indeed a privilege to be linked with UIC and become Honorary Fellows of this developing and well-recognised international college.

UIC offers a new model for advancement in higher education. The genesis and the development of the institution represent the internationalisation and modernisation of Chinese higher education. We appreciate greatly the educational philosophy of UIC and admire the friends who have established and have continued to contribute to the growth of the college. You are the true pioneers in the development of Chinese higher education. Being the Honorary Fellows of UIC gives us the opportunity to witness the continued development of this new model university. We would love to dedicate ourselves to its growth. I believe that like all of you here, we will strive for a brilliant future for UIC and be proud of it.

Today is your graduation ceremony. I congratulate you on the completion of your study and on the receipt of your diploma. It is an important moment in the journey of your life. Your undergraduate days have passed into history, but I believe that this journey of study will accompany you throughout your life. I hope that you will never forget the gifts that UIC, your alma mater, has bestowed on you. What does your alma mater mean to you? It represents the search for knowledge, the quest for truth, the commitment to achieve these ideals, and the shaping of your life.

We strongly endorse UIC’s mission to achieve a Whole Person and Liberal Arts Education. These ideals should not be restricted to your college experience but should become your lifelong pursuit. All UIC graduates should possess a global vision, an empathetic heart and a lofty mission. You should be honest, righteous, responsible, down-to-earth and innovative. These are the characters for a true intellectual and the requirements for all of you. I hope you will bear in mind the expectations from your alma mater, work tirelessly and seek avidly to contribute to society, our country and the world. Just like ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan wrote, “The way ahead is long; I see no ending, yet high and low I will search with my will unbending.” I wish your achievements will add to the reputation of your alma mater and the Chinese people.

I cordially offer my congratulations on your graduation and wish you all great success!

Thank you all!