Fudan International Students NesYear Gala

 On December 19, as the year 2025 drew to a close, the campus of Fudan University was brimming with festive spirit. The International Student New Year Gala for 2026 kicked off in the Multi-Function Hall at Guanghua Tower, Handan Campus, bringing together nearly 200 members of the university’s global family.

The guest list reflected Fudan’s vibrant international community: university officials, staff from the International Student Affairs Office, alumni who once studied abroad at Fudan, and current students from across the world. Together, they shared laughter, conversation, and anticipation for a bright new year ahead.

The gala was hosted by a trio of international students, bringing a truly global flair to the stage:

Federico (Italy)     Seidy (Costa Rica)     Fanni Li (Hungary)

Ms. Su Kui, Director of the International Student Affairs Office, opened the evening with warm remarks. She reflected on the shared achievements and milestones of the past year, thanking the students for being an integral part of Fudan's vibrant community. To all gathered, she extended her sincerest wishes for a joyful, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year.

A Vibrant Showcase of Global Talent

The evening kicked off to thunderous applause with the powerful and graceful “Rhythm of the East” by the Fudan International Students Wushu Team. Their performance, a perfect blend of strength and fluidity, masterfully showcased the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture and instantly electrified the audience.

Next, students from Indonesia transported the crowd with their dance, “The Spirit of Nusantara.” Their rhythmic and culturally rich choreography painted a vivid picture of the stunning diversity inherent to the “Land of a Thousand Islands.”

From Costa Rica, host Seidy took to the stage with the passionate song “Soy Tica, Soy Latina.” Her performance, driven by infectious Latin melodies, created an instant and powerful connection between the stage and every member of the audience.

A moment of poignant harmony followed as students from Kyrgyzstan and Russia came together to sing the Chinese ballad “As Wished.” Their sincere vocals transcended language, conveying universal messages of blessing and hope.

Finally, the energy peaked with a dynamic hip-hop medley. Students from Pakistan, the United States, Panama, Italy, and more fused various street styles, unleashing raw vitality and power that brought the entire venue to its feet and set the stage for the celebrations to come.

Recognition and Appreciation

The gala also served as a platform to honor individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions to international student affairs and campus culture. Awards were presented in three key categories, celebrating the diverse ways students enrich the Fudan community.

Ms. Su Kui, Director of the International Student Affairs Office, presents awards to the Outstanding Student Recruitment Ambassadors.

Mr. Chen Jie, Head of the Student Affairs Department of the University Party Committee, presents awards to the outstanding staff of the New Media Center.

Ms. Sheng Qing, Director of the Career Development Office, presents awards to the International Student Dragon Boat Team.

International student volunteer representative Carole Hew (Qiu Jiakun) delivers a speech.

A special highlight of the gala was the exclusive preview of the documentary film "A Home Away From Home". This highly anticipated film, three years in the making, offers an intimate portrait of the international student experience at Fudan University. Having recently held its overseas premiere at the National University of Singapore in December, the film is scheduled for a domestic theatrical release in 2026. The trailer captivated the audience, sparking immediate curiosity and excitement for its full debut.

Lucky Draws and Festive Surprises

To turn up the festive energy and get everyone involved, the gala featured multiple rounds of interactive games and prize draws. The excitement was palpable as lucky winners walked away with fantastic prizes. These included unique “Study at Fudan” cultural merchandise, as well as premium tech gifts generously sponsored by OPPO, such as power banks, wireless Bluetooth earphones, tablets, and smartwatches. The hall was filled with constant surprises and waves of applause throughout the evening.

"Study at Fudan" mascot refrigerator magnet.

Ms. Ding Jie, Deputy Director of the International Student Affairs Office, presents the grand prize.

Ms. Xu Yanqin, Assistant to the Director of the Sun Wen Sports Development Center, presents the first prize.

Mr. Levente, an alumnus from Hungary, presents the second prize.

Ms. Li Ou, an alumna from Singapore, presents the third prize.

The gala concluded in a warm and unforgettable atmosphere, with the sounds of laughter and song lingering long after the final curtain call. This year-end gathering was more than a farewell to the old year; it was a hopeful beginning, a shared promise to move forward together. As we part ways, we carry with us a heartfelt wish for the new year: may it bring everyone courage, continued growth, and profound happiness. Until we reunite next year, dear friends!

Source: Fudan University