On September 9, South China University of Technology (SCUT) held the 2026 Freshmen Opening Ceremony across its three campuses. Over 16,000 freshmen participated either in person or online. The event was attended by SCUT leaders including Chancellor Yu Xiangcheng and President Yang Zhongmin; as well as academicians, distinguished faculty members and outstanding alumni representatives. Presided over by Li Weiqing, Vice President of SCUT Committee, the event was livestreamed by multiple mainstream media outlets and SCUT’s official platforms, attracting a total of 826,000 views.

President Yang Zhongmin delivered a keynote speech themed “Innovation, Creation and Entrepreneurship”. He highlighted the university’s longstanding culture of innovation, strong capacity for creation, and fertile environment for entrepreneurship. By citing SCUT’s scientific research platforms, major achievements and alumni entrepreneurship stories, he showcased the university’s distinctive educational approach, characterized by engineering in service of the nation and the deep integration of industry, academia and research. He encouraged new students to start afresh, make wise use of AI, and embrace quiet dedication for long-term growth, thereby carrying forward SCUT’s spirit of innovation, creation, and entrepreneurship.

Representatives of faculty, current students, undergraduate and postgraduate freshmen, and alumni delivered speeches in succession. They shared their personal insights on scientific research, volunteer service and academic endeavors, inspiring the young students to shoulder their responsibilities in the new era. During the event, freshman representatives were presented with university badges and admission gifts, while alumni associations in China and overseas sent their blessings online. As the event coincided with China's 42nd Teachers’ Day, a special flower presentation was held to express gratitude to the teachers. Preceded by performances incorporating artistic and ideological elements, the event concluded with a chorus of the university anthem, marking the start of a new academic journey for the 2026 freshmen on the SCUT campus.