As the Mid-Autumn Festival drew near, the Student Party Branch of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering launched the special labor activity “Memories of SMU, Flavours of Four Seasons” on September 23, 2026, with strong support from the university Logistics Service Center. The activity aimed to inherit traditional Chinese food culture and implement the philosophy of education through labor. Centered on mooncake making, it allowed students to understand the true meaning of labor and experience the charm of traditional culture through hands-on practice.
The venue was filled with a warm and joyful atmosphere. Drawing on years of practical experience, the pastry chef from the Logistics Center explained the whole procedure of making traditional mooncakes step by step. He elaborated on key points including kneading and shaping dough, wrapping fillings, sealing, mould pressing and baking temperature, and answered questions while demonstrating.
Under the chef’s careful guidance, the students put on disposable gloves and took an active part in the production. They divided tasks and cooperated smoothly, finishing every procedure in an orderly manner. In the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, they quickly mastered the core skills of mooncake making. With their nimble hands, ordinary ingredients were turned into exquisitely shaped handmade mooncakes with clear patterns. As the oven heated up, a rich sweet aroma spread out, and a strong sense of achievement filled every participant.
Mooncakes carry the beautiful implication of reunion for Mid-Autumn Festival and serve as a vivid carrier of fine traditional Chinese culture. Integrating labor practice and cultural edification, this activity encouraged Party branch students to step out of classrooms and engage in hands-on work. They experienced the unique charm of traditional craftsmanship up close, perceived the joy and value of labor, and further strengthened their recognition of traditional culture and cultural confidence.
Going forward, the branch will continue to organize cultural practice activities based on this featured labor platform, empowering the growth of young students through practical education.
Figure 1 The Pastry Chef Explains the Production Procedures to Students
Figure 2 Students Making Handmade Mooncakes
