On 12 July 2024, "An Ode to New China, Forging Ahead in the New Era," a singing competition (Ping'anli area) among central and state organs, was held at the Ministry of Education (MOE) auditorium to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Choirs from 11 central and state organs participated in the event. After intense competition, the choir of the Open University of China (OUC), representing the MOE, won first prize. Zou Xiaodong, deputy secretary of the Working Committee of the State Organs of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), presented awards to the winning institutions. Wang Qiming, Fan Xianrui, and Liu Xuanxuan from the OUC leadership were present at the competition to observe the performances.

Zou Xiaodong Presenting Awards to the Winning Institutions

Under the strong leadership and attentive oversight of the Leading Party Group of the MOE, the OUC Party Committee gave high priority to this competition. Both the labour union and the university choir organised the preparations meticulously. During this phase, Level I Inspector Hu Yongkuan of the Party Committee for MOE-affiliated institutions and chairman of the labour union for MOE organs, provided on-site guidance several times, visiting and extending his regards. He fully endorsed the diligent training attitude and positive spirit shown by the choir members, as well as the well-chosen competition songs. He encouraged the choir to strive for excellent results through more vigorous fighting spirit and deeper artistic expression, under the guidance of professional teachers, in honour of the 75th anniversary of the PRC.

Wang Qiming, secretary of the Party Committee and president of the OUC, visited the training site multiple times to monitor the progress of rehearsals and to offer his support and concern for the choir. Liu Xuanxuan, deputy secretary of the Party Committee and secretary of the Discipline Inspection Commission at the OUC, was involved throughout the preparation process. She guided the competition preparations, attended training sessions in person, offered personalised suggestions to each choir member, and consistently monitored the physical and mental health and training effectiveness of the team to ensure they were in peak condition for the competition. All team members upheld high standards and stringent requirements at all times. They struck a balance between training and job responsibilities and committed to working overtime. After a focused training period of just one and a half months, the choir's singing level significantly improved, demonstrating the spirit of unity, progress, responsibility, and dedication of the MOE staff through their actions.

Hu Yongkuan Giving On-site Guidance

At the competition, the OUC choir performed "The Yellow River Cantata," a piece required for the region, along with "Glorious China," chosen by the choir. The team members, full of spirit, sang with inspiring vigour and passion. Their majestic singing style, intertwined with delicate and melodious vocal lines, expressed their deep love and sincere blessings for the motherland. This performance won high recognition from the judges and enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The OUC Chore on Stage Representing the MOE

Group Photo of the Performing Staff

The choir was formed in early May, with enthusiastic participation from faculty and staff across the university. After several selection rounds, 71 members were chosen to prepare for the competition, with 60 ultimately performing on stage. To gear up for this singing competition, the OUC Labour Union and the choir convened multiple meetings for relevant discussions. They also invited Ji Yujue, a professional choir teacher and conductor, to serve as the artistic director and conductor. The scientific selection of members, meticulously planned rehearsals, and detailed preparations for performance attire, makeup, and other aspects, laid a solid foundation for the competition's success.

At the Competition Site

This competition showcased the strong spirit of the MOE staff, who are deeply committed to the Party and dedicated to achieving excellence. It fostered a cultural atmosphere characterised by a love for the Party and the country, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This environment has inspired all staff members to unite closely around the Central Committee of the CPC, with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core. It has also generated significant momentum for establishing a leading country in education in every respect and for celebrating the 75th anniversary of the PRC.

This singing competition runs from July to September, featuring regional competitions in July and the finals in September. The team members felt greatly encouraged during the regionals and expressed their determination to prepare for the finals with even greater enthusiasm.

By Yi Xin, OUC