In May 2026, teachers and student representatives from the College of Marine Science and Engineering visited the Xiaoyangshan North Project Headquarters of CCCC Shanghai Waterway Engineering Bureau to launch an immersive themed class titled “Upholding Original Aspirations with Loyalty and Diligence, Empowering Yangshan Port with Youth Endeavors”. Li Lei, Deputy Secretary of the General Party Branch, Commission Member of the Discipline Inspection Commission and Trade Union Chairman of the Xiaoyangshan North Project Headquarters, as well as Yu Zhengwei, Chief Engineer of the headquarters and an alumnus of the university’s 1993 cohort, were invited as industry mentors. Counselors Lei Mengyu and Gao Rui, together with student representatives from various majors, participated in the activity.
The teachers and students conducted on-site research and study at the Xiaoyangshan Viewing Platform and Dazhitou Mountain, experiencing the remarkable construction miracles of Yangshan Port against the magnificent ocean scenery. Combining his rich work experience, alumnus Yu Zhengwei shared his struggle journey in the port and waterway industry. He encouraged younger students to stay true to their original aspirations, persevere in their efforts, cultivate solid professional capabilities, and take on the mission of building a powerful maritime nation. He also elaborated on the strategic positioning and development vision of the Xiaoyangshan North Operation Area as a national major project.
During the activity, all participants watched a promotional video about the construction of Yangshan Port, reviewing the arduous and inspiring development journey. Young students exchanged their insights on industry development and personal career growth. From the perspectives of Party building guidance and youth responsibility, Deputy Secretary Li Lei encouraged students to take root in the industry and dedicate themselves to marine undertakings.
Based on the on-site observations and mentors’ sharing, Teacher Gao Rui guided students to deepen their understanding of the character “Diligence” in the university motto “Loyalty, Faithfulness, Diligence and Respect”, promoting the in-depth integration of ideological and political education, industry cognition and university motto spirit.
As an important extension of the college’s “Appointment with Shanghai” series, this activity serves as a vivid practice of collaborative education integrating ideological and political education, industry cognition and practical experience. Through immersive research and guidance from industry mentors, the connotation of “diligence” in the university motto has been deeply rooted in students’ minds. The activity inspires students to firmly commit to marine causes and contribute youthful strength to the construction of a powerful maritime nation.
Written by: Lei Mengyu, Gao Rui Photographed by: Publicity Center of the College of Marine Science and Engineering
Figure 1: Activity Group Photo
Figure 2: On-site Observation and Study
Figure 3: Youth Seminar and Exchange