On September 9, the School of Mechanical Engineering held the "Navigating: The First Lesson of the Semester" and Secretary's Lecture at the Grand Auditorium of Jiangsu University. Pan Hongjun, the Secretary of the Party Committee and Director of the Work Committee on Student Affairs, was invited to give the main lecture, attended by all the new students of the 2024 cohort.

During the lecture, Pan Hongjun delivered a special talk titled "Belief and Inspiration: Ignite Youth through Struggle." He began with the question "What is university?" and elaborated on the meaning of youth, its purpose, how to inspire youthful energy, and the importance of becoming people of significance. He encouraged mechanical engineering students to have a sense of patriotism and party loyalty, to love their university and college, to respect their elders, to care for themselves, and to be grateful. He expressed hope that every new student would bravely strive, take responsibility, endure hardships during their youthful years, and invigorate their youth through hard work. He urged them to make full use of the five major initiatives established by the college—soul cultivation, reading, three walks, innovation, and internships—to grow into thoughtful, energetic, innovative, and responsible new-era university students.In conclusion, Secretary Pan presented three expectations to all students: first, to have ideals and goals, and to set ambitious aspirations; second, to be diligent in learning and thinking, and to hone their skills; third, to be capable of practical work and to achieve great accomplishments. He hopes that all students will adopt a proactive attitude and strive to realize their life values.

This lecture set new requirements, visions, and goals for freshmen in their studies and lives at Jiangsu University. It guided the new students to consciously "fasten the first button" of their lives, solidify their faith, and strengthen their spiritual foundations. It encouraged mechanical engineering students to be proactive and strive hard to grow into pioneers, enterprisers, and contributors who stand at the forefront of the times!