On the morning of August 26th, RUC held the opening ceremony for the 2024 freshmen.

The event was hosted by Zhang Donggang, Chair of the University Council, with a speech by President Lin Shangli. Attendees included Zhou Bingde, niece of Comrade Zhou Enlai; Wu Benli, granddaughter of Comrade Wu Yuzhang; Instructor Dai Yanjie; Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Cultural Heritage Chu Jianhao, and RUC leaders Zhu Xinkai, Wu Fulai, and Zhi Xiaoqiang.

Zhang Donggang, on behalf of RUC, extended a warm welcome to the undergraduate students of the Class of 2024. He introduced the history and mission of RUC, emphasizing that since its establishment, the university has been closely connected with the development of the nation and society, dedicated to cultivating outstanding talents across various fields. He expressed his hope that the students will uphold the university's spirit and tradition, be pioneers in learning and practice in the new era.

Lin Shangli mentioned that RUC originated during the Anti-Japanese War, with its predecessors including Shaanbei Public School and North China University. The university has a long history and a strong tradition of education. He hopes that the Class of 2024 will carry on the university's fine traditions, focus on holistic development, align their personal aspirations with societal progress, seize the opportunities of the times, stay on the right path, take practical actions, and achieve their dreams in the future.

Zhou Bingde, speaking as a representative of the families of earlier revolutionaries, mentioned that RUC was founded in Yan'an, with Zhou Enlai always showing concern for its establishment and development. She encouraged students to maintain their passion and curiosity, to boldly explore the unknown, to strive for academic excellence, and to cultivate their character, while also staying true to their ideals and contributing to societal progress.

Zhong Yi, a representative of the undergraduate freshmen from Qiushi College and the School of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, expressed that coming to RUC from Yudu, Jiangxi, he deeply felt the strong historical heritage. At this university named after "the people," everyone will uphold the motto "seeking truth from facts," and in this new era, they will showcase their youthful vigor and contribute to society.

The event concluded successfully with everyone singing the university anthem together.