On the morning of November 18, Shing-Tung Yau, a famous mathematician and educator, visited the College of Economics of Xiamen University, and gave a lecture on “Thoughts on the training and promotion of outstanding talents” at room N402 which was packed with audience.
Prof. Shing-Tung Yau gave an in-depth analysis of the necessity and essence of training outstanding talents. He pointed out that a great many remarkable achievements come from universities. If China aspires to realize a comprehensive rise in the 21st century and lead the world in basic science, China needs to construct more first-class universities, the investment in which is directly related to national power. It is hoped that the country and the government would take actions, lead the way, and keep launching various policies conducive to the development of higher education. Prof. Yau also pointed out that, the current education system nurtures large numbers of talents, but difficulties lie in promoting those scholars with creativity and special achievements. Good scientific research must be backed by well-trained young scholars. These scholars must boast three indispensable capabilities: solid basic knowledge, a strong sense of curiosity, and vivid imagination, with the latter two more important in most sophisticated fields of scientific research.
During Prof. Yau’s visit, XMU College of Economics held a memorial activity for Mr. Chun-Ying Yau. Chun-Ying Yau, father of Shing-Tung Yau, entered Xiamen University in 1931 and graduated from the Department of Political Economy in 1935. He was a renowned educator, a distinguished fellow of Xiamen University, and a well-respected philanthropist who ardently supported education in his life. He ever taught at colleges such as Chung Chi College and United College. The memorial activity revisited the stories of Chun-Ying Yau and his alma mater Xiamen University.
“I’m glad to be here where my father studied to deliver the lecture, and it was such a surprise for me that you guys present the pictures of my father. I thought it was myself as I looked so alike during my college years.” Said Shing-Tung Yau at the commemorative event.
