On August 29, over 150 international undergraduate freshmen from 31 countries and regions had a lecture on the Tsinghua Bamboo Strips at the university's Research and Conservation Center for Unearthed Texts. The event aimed to introduce these newcomers to the rich cultural heritage and humanistic values of Tsinghua University.
Liu Guozhong, deputy director of the Research and Conservation Center for Unearthed Texts, gives a lecture to the students.
Liu Guozhong, the center's deputy director, captivated the audience as he traced the history of ancient Chinese writing materials - specifically, bamboo and wooden strips - used prior to the invention of paper. Liu elaborated on the history, identification, organization, and cultural significance of the Tsinghua Bamboo strips. These Warring States-era Chu bamboo texts, which include approximately 2,500 pieces and 70 documents, possess immense academic and cultural value and are thus considered national treasures.
He also presented the characters of the Tsinghua motto — "Self-discipline and Social Commitment" with these bamboo strips.
Students observe replicas of the Tsinghua Bamboo Strips.
After the lecture, the students eagerly asked questions and spent considerable time observing replicas of the Tsinghua Bamboo Strips. While touring the memorial room of Li Xueqin (1933-2019) - a distinguished Chinese historian, Tsinghua alumnus, professor, and the pivotal force behind the conservation and research of these bamboo treasures—the students expressed awe and respect for his monumental academic contributions. Many voiced their hopes of making their own impact on the university in the years to come.
This enlightening experience enabled international students to gain a profound understanding of both Tsinghua University's academic heritage and its broader cultural essence.
Editor: Li Han
