This year, the commencement ceremony of Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) fell on June 6th, marking a significant milestone for 68 graduates embarking on new journeys from this "tropical rainforest" of learning.

The celebration started from 9:00 AM with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony in the student forest. The outgoing graduates in their academic gowns and their teachers planted a tree of Saraca griffithiana, a species listed as rare and endangered in China's Biodiversity Red List - Higher Plants. This 20-year tradition, followed by unveiling a commemorative plaque, symbolizes the graduates' deep roots at XTBG and their readiness to thrive in the wider world.

At 3:00 in the afternoon on June 6, teachers and graduates dressed up in their best attire, walked hand in hand on the red carpet, and signed their names on the graduation signature wall. The graduation ceremony began with the national anthem, and it was presided over by Prof. Quan Ruichang, deputy direcrtor of XTBG. 

Prof. Xing Yaowu, director of XTBG, addressed the graduates. He likened XTBG to a unique tropical rainforest ecosystem. “Just as every plant, tall or small, plays an indispensable role.” He urged the students to maintain their curiosity, apply scientific thinking, and contribute meaningfully to the ‘ecosystems’ they will join.

As teacher representative, Prof. LIANG Gang emphasized perseverance and lifelong learning. Graduate representatives Gao Yi and Liu Yan spoke of resilience and growth, drawing parallels to the struggles and adaptations seen in nature. International graduate Muhammad Ilyas shared his heartfelt experience of finding a "home" in this "green paradise where science meets nature," while jointly-trained graduate Chen Mingyue highlighted XTBG's inclusive and international environment.

Gao Daoxiong, current student representative, encouraged graduates to cultivate personal "resilience," akin to the flexibility he observes in trees, to face future challenges.

Gan Fanyuan, CPC secretary and deputy director of XTBG, announced the listed of outstanding graduates.

At the degree awarding ceremony, Prof. Xing Yaowu turned the tassel for each graduate, met with resounding applause celebrating their academic success.

The degree awarding ceremony closed with all participants singing Our Garden, Our Home.

The graduation celebration ended with a farewell evening party featuring ethnic and international performances.

Unveiling a commemorative plaque of tree planting

XTBG commencement ceremony 2025.

Prof. Xing Yaowu Prof. Xing Yaowu turns the tassel for each graduate.

Teachers and graduates pose a group photo.