Author: Chen Liang 

Publisher: Yangcheng Evening News - 

Date: April 16, 2025

On April 10, 2025, the Jumping Jinan Rhythm Youth - 2025 Jinan University Campus Youth Running took place at the Xuri Sports Field of Jinan University’s Shipai Campus, attracting over 1,000 enthusiastic participants, including both teachers and students.

(Jinan Youth: Running to the Beat!)

Vice President’s Opening Remarks

Zhang Xiaoxin, Vice President of Jinan University, underscored the significance of this event, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the upcoming 15th National Games, the 12th Paralympic Games, and the 9th Special Olympics. With Jinan University set to host the 12th Guangdong Provincial University Games, he noted the school has made significant renovations to sports venues and facilities to welcome athletes and coaches from more than 160 universities across the province.

(Zhang Delivers Inspiring Opening Remarks.)

Zhang encouraged students to engage actively in sports, stating, “Through hosting this event, we aim to promote sports culture, motivate young people to step out of their dormitories and onto the playground, and embrace a healthier and more positive lifestyle.” He called upon youth league organizations to act as hubs of education, transforming sports fields into vital environments for character development and teamwork among students.

A Celebration of Music and Movement

The festivities unfolded on the newly renovated Xuri Sports Field, where a stage was specially constructed. The vibrant atmosphere was bolstered by lively music and exciting performances from students. Participants sang the theme song Jumping Up for the upcoming Universiade, creating an electrifying environment. Liang Xiaotong, a student from the School of Management, expressed her excitement: “When the melody played, the cheers were exhilarating, and I found myself completing the race without even realizing it!”

(Captivating Performances at the Event)

Engaging Youth Activities

The event featured a special youth camp titled Jinan Youth Ignite Passion and Energy! comprising four exhibition areas: I Love Jinan, Healthy Jinan, Volunteer Jinan, and Smiling Jinan. Activities included quizzes and interactive experiences that encouraged students to focus on their physical and mental health while promoting overall well-being.

(Thriving Together at the Special Youth Camp)

Zhong Zihan, a student from the School of Art, remarked on the uplifting atmosphere created by the playful lights and music at the venue: “Running together, encouraging each other, and enjoying our favorite songs was incredible! After the run, I felt completely refreshed, as if all my stress had melted away.”

Community Engagement Through Running

Since launching the campus youth running program in September 2023, Jinan University has established 32 running teams composed of students from various colleges. These teams have organized over 80 activities, engaging more than 7,000 participants. The university's running initiatives have fostered a sustained culture of fitness, with a long-term strategy that includes monthly activities, weekly check-ins, and daily participation, greatly enhancing the campus sports environment.

This year's youth music run stands as a testament to Jinan University's commitment to fostering student involvement in sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle within the campus community.