The School of Humanities at Shenzhen University recently welcomed a distinguished visit from Mr. Shi Guangzhu, a National First-Class Combat Hero and an outstanding alumnus of the Chinese Department (Class of 1986). Under the theme “Forged in Blood, Steadfast as Grass,” the School organized a series of events—including a symposium and campus tour—to reconnect with the alumnus and share his inspirational story.
On the morning of April 19, Ms. Yi Ling, Party Secretary of the School of Humanities, accompanied Mr. Shi and fellow alumnus Mr. Zhang Yadong on a tour of the campus. Visiting landmarks such as the Library, the History Museum, and the Student Residences, Mr. Shi paused to recall his student life, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the equal treatment and care he received from his teachers. Secretary Yi updated him on the university’s recent development and the School of Humanities’ progress in academic programs and talent cultivation, which Mr. Shi acknowledged with great pride.
A highlight of the visit was the Alumni Symposium held on the afternoon of April 18. The event was attended by Vice Dean Mr. Fung ChunHo , Professor Yu Longyu (Director of the Indian Studies Center), faculty members, administrative staff, and student representatives, with Ms. Hu Shihan presiding over the meeting.
In his welcome speech, Vice Dean Fung reviewed Mr. Shi’s legendary journey: after being wounded and losing his sight in battle, Mr. Shi enrolled at SZU and became China’s first blind graduate to earn a bachelor’s degree. He has since excelled as a writer and social advocate. Mr. Fung noted that Mr. Shi’s life serves as a vivid “textbook for ideological and political education.”
During the discussion, Mr. Shi stressed that strengthening the military is essential to building a strong country, calling for greater national defense education and the integration of heroic values into campuses, enterprises, and military units. He encouraged students in the Chinese Department to “speak through their works” and uphold Chinese cultural identity. Professor Yu Longyu praised Mr. Shi’s decorated military record—including one First-Class Merit, two Second-Class Merits, and two Third-Class Merits—as well as his status as a National Model of Self-Improvement and one of China’s “Most Beautiful Strivers.” He concluded, “He is the pride of Shenzhen University, and the pride of our nation and era.”
The interaction session saw enthusiastic participation from students. Undergraduate Zhang Ke, a docent at the History Museum, expressed his honor in meeting the subject of his frequent tours. When asked about his most unforgettable experiences, Mr. Shi recalled the battlefield vow—“I would rather advance a step to death than retreat half a step to life”—and the sense of belonging he found at SZU, crediting the university with “opening a window to a new world” for him. Another student, Duan Xin, inquired about his most influential readings; Mr. Shi cited Selected Works of Mao Zedong, And Quiet Flows the Don, and Dream of the Red Chamber for their impact on his ideology, cultural understanding, and literary craft. At the close of the symposium, Professor Yu presented his historical novel Huang Daopo to Mr. Shi and the attendees.
This event represents a successful implementation of the School of Humanities’ “Party Building + Alumni” educational model. Mr. Shi Guangzhu’s transition from battlefield to campus, and from soldier to writer, powerfully demonstrates the values of loyalty, resilience, and responsibility. Students left the event inspired, pledging to follow the hero’s example in their own journeys. Looking ahead, the School of Humanities will continue to expand its alumni network to further enhance its educational impact.
