Xuzhou Su Shi Culture Forum and the Third Social Science Fund Project Results Promotion Conference were held at XUT on December 12 as a way to strengthen cultural confidence and explore the inheritance and development of Su Shi culture, as well as to seek new paths for the transformation and application of social science achievements. The event was hosted by the Xuzhou Federation of Social Sciences and organized by the Xuzhou Su Shi Culture Research Association and XUT. Scholars specializing in Su Shi culture, enthusiasts of Su Shi culture, and representatives from XUT gathered together to delve deeper into the Su Shi culture.
Zhang Nong, president of XUT, expressed gratitude to all leaders and guests for attending the event. He highlighted the significance of social sciences, making it a characteristic of XUT, and he said that we would work hard to build “Zhi Zhi Academy” platform for academic exchange. XUT have scored excellent achievements in major social science projects at the national, provincial, and municipal levels, marking a historic breakthrough. Additionally, he encouraged researchers to actively participate in the Xuzhou Su Shi Cultural Research Association to contribute to the creative transformation and innovative development of Su Shi culture.
Wu Weidong, Deputy Mayor of Xuzhou Municipal People’s government, said that the Xuzhou Federation of Social Sciences has been exploring and improving the mechanism of integrated research on four aspects, actively serving as a the think tank for the construction of Huaihai Economic Zone with Xuzhou at its core. He hopes that the Federation will take this opportunity to carry out research on history and culture, generate more high-quality research results on Su Shi culture, and contribute more to the promotion of China's modernization in Xuzhou.
Zhang Xinke, Secretary of Jiangsu Federation of Social Science Associations, highlighted the profound influence of Su Shi culture on the people in Pengcheng (ancient Xuzhou), encompassing its ideologies, humanistic spirit, and moralities. This cultural heritage has provided a strong foundation and enduring motivation for Xuzhou. Secretary Zhang hopes that the Xuzhou Federation of Social Sciences will play a pivotal role in bridging connections and fostering unity among social science researchers. Together, they can make significant contributions to advancing the innovative practices taking place in Jiangsu and Xuzhou modernization with Chinese characteristics.
The conference was divided into three sessions: the opening ceremony, keynote speeches by experts, and the promotion of achievements. During the second session, Professor Chen Caizhi,University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Professor Xue Yiwei, Dean of the School of Humanities at XUT, delivered keynote speeches respectively. During the third session, Professor Ye Nan from Jiangsu Normal University and Associate Professor An Kejie from the School of Marxism, XUT gave presentations. Experts and scholars discussed and exchanged ideas centered on Su Shi culture at the conference.
Su Shi, also known as Su Dongpo, was a renowned Chinese poet, calligrapher, and writer during the Song Dynasty. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest literary figures in Chinese history.