July 5, 2025 | Chengdu—In a celebration marking both new beginnings and enduring traditions, the School of Economics and Management (SEM) at Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) officially welcomed its 2025 cohort of MBA, EMBA, and MEM students during a solemn and inspiring orientation ceremony held at the Jiuli Campus International Conference Hall.
Over 400 incoming graduate students gathered for the event, which opened with the national anthem and set the tone for an academic journey rooted in excellence, innovation, and societal contribution.
Unfolding New Beginnings, Inspiring Original Aspirations
Ms. Jiang Jia, Secretary of the CPC SEM Committee, delivered opening remarks, extending a warm welcome to the new cohort. Noting that 2025 marks the 41st anniversary of SEM and 129th anniversary of SWJTU, she emphasized the importance of aligning individual aspirations with national development and the demands of the new era. She expressed her hope that the 2025 cohort would grow into high-caliber management professionals who contribute meaningfully to the school, the university, the nation, and the global community.
Han Ke, Dean of SEM, conveyed his greetings via video, highlighting SWJTU’s status as one of China’s oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning. He expressed confidence that the students’ time at SEM would be intellectually enriching and personally rewarding.
Rooted in History, Oriented Toward the Future
Li Liang, Associate Dean of SEM, provided an in-depth overview of SWJTU’s century-old legacy and SEM’s evolution into a leading force in management education. Tracing the school’s journey from its historical foundations to its current emphasis on educational innovation, and from its distinctive disciplinary strengths to its educational legacy of “Persevering in Self-improvement for the Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation; Fortifying Oneself to Ceaseless Activity”, every stage of SEM’s journey has been guided by the philosophy of “Cultivating Managers with Global Vision”.
Li also elaborated on the distinct objectives of each program: MBA program focuses on sustainable innovation, lifelong learning, and professional competence; EMBA program aims to cultivate talents with global leadership, business insight, and sustainable development competence; MEM program emphasizes to shape professional competence, innovative practical skills, and leadership. This goal-oriented approach defines an educational vision of global perspective and innovative thinking, designed not only to enhance career competitiveness but to foster holistic, multi-dimensional growth.
In a panel-style segment, alumni representatives Tang Qi and Yang Yong, along with current student representative Huang Ziwei, shared insights drawn from their academic and professional journeys. They encouraged the 2025 cohort to make full use of SEM’s robust industry-academia-research ecosystem and to draw inspiration from the spirit of “Persevering in Self-improvement for the Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation”, and to overcome challenges with the determination of “Fortifying Oneself to Ceaseless Activity”. They called on students to broaden their horizons, confront challenges with resilience, and strive for excellence in both scholarship and service.
Passing the Torch, Igniting Dreams
A symbolic passing of the torch took place as Chen Wenli, President of the 26th MBA Association, formally handed over the association's flag to Jia Lei, newly elected President of the 27th MBA Association, symbolizing the transition of leadership. The incoming executive board took a collective oath of office. Jia Lei introduced the association’s structure and activities, outlining an annual plan centered on "Connection, Innovation, and Service". He looked forward to working with the 2025 cohort to overcome challenges, explore new possibilities, and shape the future together.
Wang Ruchao, Vice President of MBA Association, introduced the missions and activities of seven student clubs, seven student-led clubs, inviting new members to engage in extracurricular activities that enrich campus life. Liu Lin and EMBA alumnus Zhou Peng shared powerful reflections from their participation in the renowned Gobi Desert Challenge, calling on new students to carry forward the SWJTU spirit of "Fortifying Oneself to Ceaseless Activity".
The ceremony also marked the official launch of the 9th Annual MBA Micro-Film Competition, a flagship event known for fostering creativity and collaboration. Sun Sishi, Deputy Secretary of the MBA Association, announced this year’s theme—“Starry Brilliance, Creative Future”.
Under the “all-student creation” model, incoming 2025 MBA/EMBA/MEM students will be randomly grouped to produce a complete film based on the theme, handling everything from screenwriting and directing to cinematography and post-production. Ten major awards, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actor/Actress, will be announced in November.
Fostering Synergy, Building a Supportive Ecosystem
To further strengthen student integration, Li Haibo, Director of Professional Degree Education Center, introduced the center's role and, along with 2025 MBA/EMBA/MEM class advisors Ms. Ma Guangping and Ms. Yao Jiyun, presented letters of appointment to members of “Senior Mentorship Program”. This initiative is designed to create a supportive mentorship community based on the principle of “passing on experience, offering support, and providing guidance”. It reflects the school’s commitment to building a cohesive, caring, and dynamic SEM community.
Setting Sail with the Alma Mater
The ceremony concluded with a moving performance of the Southwest Jiaotong University alma mater, echoing the spirit of “Persevering in Self-improvement for the Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation; Fortifying Oneself to Ceaseless Activity” throughout the hall. The ceremony was not only a continuation of tradition but also a hopeful look toward the future. May the 2025 MBA/EMBA/MEM students achieve academic success, personal growth, and professional excellence—carrying their dreams forward on the promising grounds of SWJTU, and contributing their strength to SEM, society, and the nation.
