In a symphony of scholarly achievement and architectural grandeur, the International School of Medicine, Zhejiang University (ZJU-ISM) marked a historic milestone as it unveiled its meticulously crafted new campus in Yiwu. ZJU-ISM is Zhejiang University’s dedicated endeavor in the realm of international medical education. Together with the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (ZJU4H) and the International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University (ZJU-IIM), ZJU-ISM is committed to promoting human health through excellent clinical research, education, and care.

Nestled within the verdant embrace of the Science and Education District beside Shuangjiang Lake in Fotang Town, the sprawling campus stands as a testament to the fusion of artistry and pedagogy. An architectural masterpiece, the Sports Center takes the form of a majestic sailboat, a beacon of dreams set to sail. Here, 249 medical prodigies domestically and globally embark on an academic journey, poised to redefine the contours of global healthcare.

Dignitaries and luminaries converged to grace the occasion. With heartfelt wishes and soaring aspirations, Ren Shaobo, Chairman of Zhejiang University (ZJU); Cai Xiujun, President of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Zhang Junhua, Chairman of the Talent Exchange Service Center of the National Health Commission; Zhu Shiqiang, Vice Chairman of ZJU; Li Xiaoming, Vice President of ZJU; Academician Huang Hefeng, Dean of ZJU-ISM; along with other distinguished leaders, collectively illuminated the campus with ceremonial lights, marking the beginning of this exciting new chapter.

Ren Shaobo, Chairman of Zhejiang University (ZJU), delivered a speech

Ren Shaobo, on behalf of the university, extended warm congratulations on the successful launch of the new campus and extended a heartfelt welcome to the incoming students. He articulated the profound significance of this venture. ZJU-ISM emerges as a strategic convergence, seamlessly amalgamating the intellectual vigor of Zhejiang University with the vibrant tapestry of Yiwu. He also expressed gratitude to all segments of society who have demonstrated interest in and supported the development of ZJU-ISM.

Zeng Weijie expressed the best wishes

Zeng Weijie, Vice Consul-General of the Consulate General of Thailand in Shanghai, representing the Embassy of Thailand in China, conveyed sincere greetings and best wishes to all faculty and students.

Partners from the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta in Canada, Maina Soko Military Hospital in Zambia, Lusaka APEX Medical University, and the Consulate General of Thailand in Shanghai attended the ceremony. Pre-recorded videos were sent by the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University in Thailand, the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, and others to extend their congratulations.

Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University's Video

The inaugural ceremony was punctuated by a recitation of the poem “Health Silk Road, Unite the World”, a lyrical homage to the great builders that brought ZJU-ISM to fruition. Subsequent rituals, including the investiture of academic mentors and the bestowment of white gowns, imbued the proceedings with an aura of academic sanctity.

As the Zhejiang University anthem resounded, the stage came alive in a cavalcade of colors, the fluttering flags a testament to the vibrancy of youthful promise.

New Students with White Gowns

In the afternoon, the Health Development Forum unfolded. Cai Xiujun, Huang Hefeng, and Li Xiaoming delivered captivating lectures on three compelling topics: “Creating a Modernized Benchmark Hospital in the Chinese Style: The Practice of the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital,” “Early-Life Conditions’ Impact on Adult Health and Disease,” and “Fear, Anxiety, Depression.” Exhibitions showcasing the collaborative endeavors among ZJU-ISM, ZJU4H and ZJU-IIM, named the International Medical Center, a Cultural Fair, and a jubilant Freshman Welcome Gala underscored the convergence of academia and community.

The Cultural Fair and the Jubilant Freshman Welcome Gala

This inauguration not only marks a new chapter in the annals of Zhejiang University but also heralds a paradigm shift in the intersection of academic prowess and global outreach. ZJU-ISM stands poised to sculpt the future of healthcare, exemplifying the spirit of intellectual pioneering. In Yiwu, a beacon of erudition now gleams, destined to illuminate the path for generations to come.

Written by: Han Qiqi

Edited by: Chen Weiying