On the morning of Sep 2, the opening ceremony for the class of 2025 of International College(IC) was held in the auditorium on Zhangzhou Campus. Leaders of IC, teacher representatives and all the 2025 new students attended the opening ceremony. The ceremony was presided over by Ma Xianghua, the Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee.

The opening ceremony kicked off in the majestic and passionate national anthem. Yu Hongbo, Dean of IC, delivered a speech at the beginning. On behalf of all the teachers and students, Dean Yu extended heartfelt congratulations and warm welcome to all the new students, and showed great respect and sincere appreciation to all the students’ parents. Dean Yu briefly reviewed the history of XMU, and connecting with IC’s development and talent cultivation achievements, proposed four hopes for the students: Firstly, to always bear in mind the original aspiration and mission of XMU students, integrate personal growth with national development, and strive to become a new generation capable of undertaking the great task of national rejuvenation. Secondly, as IC approaches its 20th anniversary, she hopes all the students will uphold diligence and self-discipline, master solid skills, look to outstanding alumni as role models, adapt quickly to university life, study assiduously, and prepare for future overseas studies and serving the nation. Thirdly, she encourages students to seize opportunities for international exchange, cultivate a global perspective, develop a sense of mission with a worldwide outlook, enhance cross-cultural communication and international engagement skills, and master emerging technologies like AI to become well-rounded global talents. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of regular physical exercise, making use of the beautiful campus environment and excellent sports facilities to maintain or develop a love for sports, strengthen their physique, and achieve all-round development.

Guo Ran, as a teacher representative made a speech. She demonstrated IC's international educational philosophy through daily teaching and practical activities, encouraging new students to shift from "passive acceptance" to "active exploration" in their future studies. She encouraged them to engage in critical thinking, build their own knowledge systems, value teamwork, develop resilience, and integrate personal growth into the broader trends of the era, thereby writing a unique chapter of youth.

Yang Chenyue，as an Alumni representative， shared her personal journey from IC to her upcoming studies in the UK, expressing sincere gratitude for the inclusive environment and abundant resources provided by IC. She encouraged students to define their goals early, make good use of the university’s diverse resources, develop clear academic plans, actively participate in various activities, and cherish every opportunity to exercise and improve themselves.

Luo Haijing (Class of 2024) and Chen Yi (Class of 2025) delivered speeches as representatives of current students and new students, respectively. Luo shared her experiences in IELTS preparation and participation in the Cambridge exchange program, encouraging younger peers to understand themselves, plan wisely, engage actively in practical activities, and make full use of IC’s international platforms to explore bravely and write their own extraordinary stories.Chen Yi, speaking on behalf of all freshmen, expressed their commitment to upholding the university motto, "Self-improvement, Pursuit of Excellence." She emphasized strengthening their capabilities through classroom learning, language practice, and cross-cultural engagement, aiming to tell China’s stories on the global stage with an integrative, innovative, and principled approach—showcasing the wisdom and responsibility of Chinese youth.

The ceremony concluded successfully in the solemn school anthem.