Fudan University aims to become a leading innovative institution in the next decade, propelling itself into the forefront of world-class universities with Chinese characteristics, its president, Jin Li, said on Tuesday.

Innovation is at the core of Fudan University's identity, and the Shanghai institution will continue to provide limitless possibilities for human creative development and serve as a crucial pillar for the country's innovation ecosystem, Jin said during an event commemorating the 120th anniversary of the school's founding.

"Integrating local and international perspectives, Fudan University aims to keep breaking new boundaries and reshaping itself, and consistently lead at the forefront of openness and innovation," he said.

Looking toward the next 10 years, Jin pointed out the alignment of the university's aspirations with the national goal of building a strong education system.

"All members of the Fudan community will contribute their utmost to the comprehensive advancement of the nation and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through modernization with Chinese characteristics," he said.

Reflecting on the university's history, Jin underscored the institution's spirit of self-reliance and continuous innovation. He said that Fudan University has nurtured nearly 500,000 outstanding talent with innovative spirit and capabilities to date, making it its most significant contribution.

Xu Qingsen, vice-minister of the Ministry of Education, said that Fudan University should deepen innovation in knowledge, theory, and methodology, better serve the development of China's independent knowledge system, and promote independent scientific and technological innovation to help the country achieve greater self-reliance in high-level science and technology.

Zhu Zhongming, deputy Party secretary of Shanghai, said that Fudan University should be a leader among universities rooted in China, a pioneer in integrating talent development in education, science, and technology, and a role model for the mutual promotion between a major city and a prestigious university.

Following the school's tradition of paying tribute to academics during anniversary events, Fudan University invited 120 academicians and senior professors, 120 principals of national-level key middle schools, and 120 representatives of alumni organizations to take part in the ongoing anniversary activities.

Tiziana Lippiello, president of the Ca' Foscari University of Venice in Italy and a Fudan alumna, said her educational experience at Fudan enabled her to delve into Chinese classics and modern Chinese language, shaping her into the person she is today.

"Fudan University's foundation in Chinese culture and intellectual traditions will continue to inspire and influence the world," she said. "In this era overflowing with uncertainties, the responsibility of universities lies not only in education, but also in guidance."

As a university president, Lippiello said she placed particular emphasis on the university's deep relationship with Fudan, with collaborations between the two schools encompassing fields such as economics, sustainable development, digital humanities and linguistics.

Peng Huisheng, a professor at Fudan University's department of polymer science, recalled his experience of learning and doing research with pioneers in the initial years. He highlighted Fudan's spirit of patriotism, academic independence, inclusivity and pursuit of excellence, which has produced generations of renowned scholars and industry elites.

"Looking into the future, I aim to lead my team toward top-tier international research, proposing original scientific concepts, sparking industrial transformations, and addressing significant scientific and technological challenges to advance human civilization," he said.

zhouwenting@chinadaily.com.cn