University in Ningxia is churning out a diverse crop of graduates

Li Junjie (right) presents souvenirs to graduates and bids farewell to them at North Minzu University in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, on June 7. CHINA DAILY

North Minzu University is in the throes of graduation season, with over 23,000 students from 53 ethnic groups studying at the school.

The university, located in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, boasts a student body reflecting China's rich ethnic tapestry. University President Li Junjie emphasized its commitment to fostering a strong sense of national community.

"We prioritize initiatives like themed exhibitions and courses dedicated to national unity," Li said. "These programs have attracted thousands of visitors and solidified the university's role as a hub for promoting national unity education in Ningxia."

Founded in 1984, North Minzu University has produced over 80,000 graduates from various ethnicities.

"These alumni contribute significantly to national development, particularly in ethnic and border areas, while promoting Chinese culture globally," Li said.

One notable alumnus, Qin Wenbo, a member of the Hui ethnic group, has made a significant impact on his community in Helan county, Ningxia.

Qin graduated in 2009 and became Party secretary of Languang village in 2012. He has established a number of agricultural organizations in the village, including an organic rice demonstration area and a planting base for rice field crabs.

The village also became a demonstration point for cross-border agricultural cooperation, attracting partners from South Korea.

Qin was awarded the Ningxia Youth May Fourth Medal in 2014 and the title of Model for Ethnic Unity and Progress in Ningxia in 2015.

Li also highlighted the achievements of international graduates such as Ameen Muneer Mohammed Al-Obaidi from Iraq. Known in Chinese as Fang Haoming, Mohammed enrolled in 2017 and developed a strong interest in the Chinese language and culture. After graduating in 2022, he became a journalist at China-Arab TV, where he actively promotes Chinese culture.

"North Minzu University is committed to achieving high-quality development and becoming a distinguished, modern university," Li said. "We are proud of our diverse graduates and their contributions to national unity and cultural exchange."