Spiritual legacy connects Zhu Kezhen and Huang Tingjian

Zhu Kezhen (1890–1974) received his doctorate in meteorology from Harvard University in 1918. He later served as the President of Zhejiang University, vice president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and chairman of the Chinese Geographical Society.

Portrait of Zhu. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

After returning to China, he dedicated himself to the development of modern meteorology and geography. During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, he led the faculty and students at Zhejiang University on a westward trek.

Facing malaria, Japanese bombing, and material scarcity, he always remained steadfast in his educational mission.

He led the faculty and students of Zhejiang University in Yishan to expand departments, widely recruit teachers, implement the tutorial system, and increase student enrollment, persisting in academic independence and universal education amidst the flames of war.

The memorial plaza of Zhejiang University. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

After arriving in Yishan, Guangxi, he consulted local documents to trace the footsteps of Huang Tingjian (1045–1105). Huang is a man of cultural education, while Zhu strives to improve the nation through culture. They met across a span of over 800 years in Yizhou (Yishan).

Portrait of Huang. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

From Huang to Zhu, Chinese intellectuals have upheld their beliefs, pursued truth, and shouldered their responsibilities. Through science and education, Zhu wrote a new chapter on that same ground. His spiritual relay is a legacy not only for Zhejiang University but also for the cultural heritage of the Chinese nation.