Student Leaders | From South China Sea Expeditions to Macao’s Kiang Wu Hospital—Tracing the Legacy of Red Medical Spirit Across Three Cities
To deeply study and implement the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the subsequent plenary sessions, and to fully uphold the spirit of President Xi’s congratulatory letter on the 100th anniversary of Sun Yat-sen University, the School of Medicine at Sun Yat-sen University organized a student leadership training program from February 28 to March 1, 2025. Over 40 student leaders traveled to Macao and Zhuhai to explore the rich medical heritage and cutting-edge scientific innovations, strengthening their commitment to the Red Medical Spirit while fostering a deep sense of responsibility and humanitarianism.
In Macao’s Kiang Wu Hospital, students retraced the footsteps of Dr. Kelin, former dean of the School of Medicine, whose unwavering dedication to medical excellence and revolutionary ideals left an indelible mark on generations of medical professionals. This historical journey allowed students to feel the warmth of a century-old medical tradition and reaffirm the virtues of compassion and dedication in medicine.
In Zhuhai, students explored the Ocean Science Popularization Center and boarded the research vessel “Sun Yat-sen University”, witnessing firsthand China’s advancements in deep-sea exploration. As they marveled at the nation’s technological achievements and listened to the powerful narrative of national rejuvenation, they drew parallels between scientific exploration and medical innovation—both driven by relentless pursuit and unwavering commitment.
Looking back on history and envisioning the future, these student leaders immersed themselves in the essence of medical ethics, turning knowledge into action and striving to become competent builders and successors of China’s medical and healthcare progress.
Tracing the Roots of Medical Benevolence: A Visit to Kiang Wu Hospital
SYSU Medical Students Visit Kiang Wu Hospital
On the morning of March 1, a delegation led by Chen Yanping (Deputy Secretary of the SYSU School of Medicine Party Committee), Ding Xiaoyi (Secretary of the SYSU Youth League Committee), and Ji Xiaoting (Deputy Secretary of the Youth League Committee) visited Kiang Wu Hospital in Macao. They were warmly received by Professor Li Pengbin, Executive Vice President of Kiang Wu Hospital, and Professor He Jingquan, Assistant to the President, who guided them through the hospital’s 150-year history.
The hospital’s first director, Professor Kelin, was not only an outstanding medical expert but also a steadfast member of the underground Communist Party. Under the guise of medical practice, he protected revolutionary efforts and dedicated his life to the liberation of the nation. His unwavering patriotism became deeply embedded in the hospital’s legacy, inspiring generations of Sun Yat-sen University medical students to align their personal aspirations with the nation’s development.
From providing free medical care in the late Qing Dynasty to embracing the fusion of Eastern and Western medicine in modern times, Kiang Wu Hospital has upheld the principle of “Medical Benevolence for the People,” integrating humanistic care into its medical services.
SYSU Medical Students Visit Kiang Wu Hospital
During the discussion session, Professor Li Pengbin, affectionately referred to as “Senior Brother,” shared his personal medical journey and profound insights. He emphasized that medicine is not just about technical skills—it is a legacy of humanitarian spirit. He encouraged young medical students to embody “compassion and excellence” in their daily practice, treating every life with reverence and every case with responsibility. This timeless wisdom deeply resonated with the students, strengthening their resolve to become empathetic and capable medical professionals.
Deputy Secretary Chen Yanping expressed gratitude to Kiang Wu Hospital and emphasized that Sun Yat-sen University will continue to inherit and carry forward the spirit of medical excellence, cultivating competent and compassionate healthcare professionals who will contribute to the healthcare development of the Greater Bay Area.
Pursuing the Deep Blue: National Scientific Innovation as a Guiding Light
SYSU Medical Students Explore the Ocean Science Popularization Center
The Zhuhai expedition was a fusion of science and passion. At the Ocean Science Popularization Center, student leaders immersed themselves in an interactive underwater world, swimming virtually with sharks and engaging with coral ecosystems. They witnessed the fragility and magnificence of marine life, broadening their perspectives beyond medicine into the ecological and environmental sciences.
The highlight of the visit was boarding the “Sun Yat-sen University” research vessel, a symbol of China’s deep-sea exploration ambitions. This vessel, equipped with L-type full-turn low-noise thrusters, rim-driven permanent magnet side thrusters, and active stabilizers, represents the pinnacle of China’s oceanographic research capabilities.
With its voyages uncovering cold seeps in the South China Sea and safeguarding coral ecosystems, the ship is a testament to China’s scientific breakthroughs and serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s maritime strategy.
The parallels between oceanic research and medical advancements became clear—both demand precision, perseverance, and collaboration. Inspired by this journey, students reaffirmed their commitment to scientific rigor and medical excellence, determined to contribute to China’s strategic medical and healthcare initiatives, particularly in the Greater Bay Area’s healthcare development.
SYSU Medical Students Aboard the “Sun Yat-sen University” Research Vessel
Echoes of Youth: Collaboration and Growth in the Greater Bay Area
The delegation also participated in a student leadership forum co-hosted by the School of Medicine and the School of International Finance. Discussions centered around youth leadership, organizational vitality, service efficiency, and innovation in student activities. Through meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange, both faculties explored strategies for collaborative growth and interdepartmental cooperation, offering valuable insights for the future development of student organizations.
Student Leadership Exchange Forum: SYSU School of Medicine & School of International Finance
At the World Expo Garden, students engaged in team-building exercises, strengthening their collaboration and strategic thinking skills through activities such as “Building Together,” “Fruit Matching Race,” and the “Frisbee Carnival.” These dynamic challenges enhanced team spirit and showcased the resilience and enthusiasm of Sun Yat-sen University’s medical students.
SYSU Medical Students Participate in Team-Building Activities at the World Expo Garden
The simple and sincere voices of the student leaders show the inspirational significance of this event to the students——
01 Xu Leyi (Class of 2024):
“During our visit to Kiang Wu Hospital, we listened to Professor Li Pengbin’s inspiring stories about the hospital’s history and mission. As I reflected on the century-old legacy of compassion and excellence, I gained a deeper understanding of President Xi’s vision for Sun Yat-sen University. As future medical professionals in the Greater Bay Area, we must resonate with the solemn oath—‘health entrusted, life entrusted’—and translate our passion for medicine into meaningful action, truly embodying boundless humanitarian care.”
Conclusion: Carrying Forward the Spirit of Red Medicine
This training program marks a significant step in implementing President Xi’s guiding principles, enhancing student leadership development, and exploring new models for cross-disciplinary collaboration. Through visits to Macao’s Kiang Wu Hospital, the Ocean Science Popularization Center, and the “Sun Yat-sen University” research vessel, student leaders gained a deeper understanding of Red Medical Heritage, scientific innovation, and humanistic care.
Like old trees sprouting new branches, the next generation of medical leaders is rising to meet the challenges of the future. They will continue to stay true to their mission, align themselves with the Party, integrate knowledge with action, and innovate in student leadership. By upholding humanistic values and pioneering research, they strive to elevate medical education, drive forward healthcare advancements, and contribute to the nation’s medical and healthcare progress.
（Original link: The official WeChat account of "Zhongshan School of Medicine"：https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/XqBA1XjNltLwAV4a1-aAWQ）
