On the morning of May 29, 2025, the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2025 in the Master’s Program in Bioengineering (Biomanufacturing and Bioprocessing), jointly offered by Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT) and the University of Georgia (UGA), was grandly held at BUCT’s Chaoyang Campus. Attendees included Wang Feng, Member of the Standing Committee of the BUCT Party Committee and Vice President of BUCT; Yan Yajun, representative of the College of Engineering at UGA; Li Qifang, Secretary of the Party Committee of BUCT’s School of International Education; faculty representatives; and all graduating students.
Wang Feng’s Address
Vice President Wang Feng extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and reviewed the program’s development and achievements. He noted that the program draws on the strengths of both universities in the field of bioengineering and aims to cultivate globally minded leaders in the biomanufacturing sector. He encouraged the graduates to face challenges with innovation, lead technological development with a strong sense of responsibility, and embrace global collaboration—contributing to the advancement of China’s biomanufacturing industry.
Yan Yajun’s Address
In his remarks, Yan Yajun praised the fruitful collaboration between the two institutions and commended the graduates for their dedication and personal growth. Drawing on his own experience, he advised the graduates: “Choose a career that excites you every morning when you wake up and boldly pursue your dreams on the golden track of biomanufacturing.” He highlighted the value of combining cross-cultural competence with professional expertise, emphasizing that this integration will provide a strong foundation for their future development.
Remarks by Faculty Representatives Fan Yantao (left) and Shen Xiaolin (right)
Dr. Fan Yantao, representing the University of Georgia, reflected on the students’ journey, acknowledging the challenges they overcame and their continuous progress. Professor Shen Xiaolin, from BUCT’s College of Life Science and Technology and a faculty mentor for the program, offered parting words to the graduates. She commended their performance in both academic research and practical training and encouraged them to carry forward the spirit of innovation that bridges Chinese and Western perspectives, contributing to the future of the biotechnology field.
Remarks by Graduate Representative Ye Haiwei
Ye Haiwei, speaking on behalf of the graduates, shared her reflections on two years of academic pursuit. She recalled memorable moments in the classroom, in the lab, and with her peers, and expressed heartfelt gratitude to both BUCT and UGA, as well as to all the faculty members. Students currently studying at UGA also sent their well wishes via video, conveying enduring bonds of friendship and deep appreciation for their teachers across time and distance.
Wang Feng and Yan Yajun jointly turned the tassels for the graduates and presented commemorative gifts. They also posed for photos with each graduate. Graduate representatives presented flowers to faculty members from both institutions, expressing their sincere appreciation for their mentorship.
Looking ahead, Beijing University of Chemical Technology will continue to deepen its collaboration with the University of Georgia to nurture more globally competitive, high-caliber talent, contributing to the advancement of the global biomanufacturing industry.