The opening ceremony of the President of Ningbo University was hit by heavy rain: the 34-second concise speech was praised

China News Service, Beijing, September 12 (Reporter Gao Meng) When the opening ceremony encounters heavy rain, as a principal, should you choose to finish reading the prepared speech, or let the students take shelter from the rain first?

On the evening of September 11, the opening ceremony for the 2026 freshmen of Ningbo University was held in the intermittent autumn rain. Teachers and students all wore ponchos. When it was the turn of Cai Ronggen, the president and academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, to speak, the rain became heavier. So, instead of reading from the script, he only said three sentences, and the whole process only took 34 seconds.

The first sentence is adapted from the lyrics of "Sailor": This little rain is nothing, last year it rained more than this year. The second sentence is "Everyone is welcome." The third sentence is, I wish everyone will study hard at Ningda University, live well, lay a solid foundation, achieve their dreams, and become a better version of themselves at Ningda University.

After saying three sentences, everyone burst into applause and cheers. Subsequently, the opening ceremony was interrupted, but some students did not leave. The performers of the evening program performed on stage as originally planned, and many students stayed to watch. The sound of rain, singing, and cheers intertwined together, forming a passionate ocean of youth.

That night, the school’s official account released the full text of President Cai Ronggen’s speech of more than 3,300 words. This special speech by the principal at the opening ceremony made many netizens feel heart-warming: Although the ceremony is important, the health of teachers and students must come first.

In fact, many times, gorgeous language is not as good as sincere consideration. A sudden heavy rain made people see the warmth of education and the people-oriented choice at critical moments. Although the ceremony left some regrets, Principal Cai’s three sentences and spirit were simple, moving and full of power. This special opening ceremony encourages students to calmly welcome every storm in college and future life.