Sowing seeds of hope through action and adding greenery to campus through practice. On the afternoon of March 12, SCMU held its “Labor Beautifies Campus, Education Nurtures Talent” tree planting event at South Lake Garden. University leaders Liu Yi, Han Yesheng, Li Hongyan, Qin Rui, and Bao Lina participated alongside exemplary faculty representatives.

Yang Li, a student in the 10th Young Marxist Training Program, spoke as the student representative. She movingly shared, “On this fertile ground of SCMU, students from all 56 ethnic groups grow vigorously like these young saplings, flourishing together under the sunshine of ‘One Family of the Chinese Nation’. The tree rings mark our shared journey—researching side by side in laboratories, competing together on athletic fields, and singing and dancing at youth concerts. SCMU’s young people embrace one another as tightly as pomegranate seeds.”

Liu Yi, Deputy Secretary of the University Party Committee and University President, delivered an address. He emphasized that university students represent the future of the nation and are vital forces in building an ecological civilization.“Today’s tree planting activity is not only a lesson in practical labor but also in environmental education”, he noted. He encouraged all faculty and students to internalize and demonstrate the principle that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets”, collectively creating a beautiful new chapter for SCMU. He pointed out that planting new seedlings and nurturing the pomegranate trees symbolizes sowing seeds of “ethnic unity” in the hearts of young students, guiding everyone to firmly establish the concept of a community “sharing weal and woe, honor and disgrace, life and death, and common destiny”. He urged students to become steadfast supporters, powerful advocates, and faithful practitioners in consolidating a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Liu Yi giving an address. Photo by Lei Changsheng

In the spring rain, faculty and students together planted cherry trees and tended the pomegranate garden. Working collaboratively, they dug holes, positioned saplings, added soil, and watered the plants in a scene of bustling activity. Soon, the newly planted saplings stood tall in the spring breeze, adding fresh vitality to the campus.

Students expressed that as youth of the new era, they have a responsibility to take the lead in practicing green development concepts and contributing to the building of an ecological civilization.

Tree planting scene. Photos by Liu Hong and Li Shengyan