A letter to the alumni of Yunnan University

Dear alumni:

In April, spring is evident everywhere in Kunming city and the grounds of Yunnan University are now full of blossoms. This year's spring is destined to be unforgettable. We joined hands to fight the novel coronavirus epidemic and now welcome the dawn of victory. At this special moment, Yunnan University welcomed its 97th birthday. Here, on behalf of all teachers and students of Yunnan University, we would like to extend our sincere greetings and heartfelt thanks to all alumni at home and abroad -- and to all people who care about and support the development of Yunnan University!

Over the past 97 years, Yunnan University has always shared the same fate as the nation. In the face of this year's novel coronavirus epidemic, we take epidemic prevention and control as a top priority, while on the other hand making preparations for the beginning of the new term. We have spared no effort to ensure teachers and students' safety and the university's stability. During the epidemic, all teachers gave classes online and research staff conducted studies on epidemic prevention and control, so as to provide technical support for the prevention. We continue to inherit and carry forward the fine traditions of Yunnan University. A large number of students participated in front-line voluntary work in epidemic prevention and control, fulfilling their social responsibilities.

Over the past 97 years, Yunnan University has always pursued excellence. In the past year, we comprehensively strengthened the advancement of our disciplines and promoted the academic development of humanities, social sciences and natural sciences -- seeing a new high in the number and quality of scientific research results. We also attach great importance to top-level professionals, with their current numbers at the campus double those of three years ago. A total of 17 majors at Yunnan University have been selected as national first-class undergraduate majors, while many students have achieved excellent results in national competitions. We are making every effort to develop into a first-class university in the country and even in the world.

Facing the future, Yunnan University will abide by its motto of "self-esteem, knowledge, justice and practice" and seek more achievements. It will promote development in the advancement of its disciplines, teaching team building, talent training, scientific research, social services, international exchanges and in other areas, so as to deepen reforms and develop into a comprehensive and international research-oriented university in the country.

The advancement and development of Yunnan University has always been inseparable from the strong support from our alumni and society. This year, we cannot invite everyone to visit the university, but our hearts are always connected. Let's make an appointment to meet in the spring of next year.

Wishing all our alumni good health and good luck!

Wishing our university achieves more splendid achievements!

Lin Wenxun, Party secretary of YNU

Fang Jingyun, president of YNU and president of the general alumni association of YNU

April 20, 2020