To deepen the integration of industry and education, promote the alignment of Marxist theory with social practice, and guide young students to clarify their career paths and cultivate a spirit of perseverance through enterprise engagement, on September 12, Liu Zhi, Dean of the School of Marxism at Shenzhen University, together with Party Committee Deputy Secretary Wang Ping and counselor Bian Kebing, led a group of graduate student representatives to the headquarters of Boda Construction Group. The visit, themed “Charting the Future, Defining the Path”, aimed to build a bridge for students to step from the “ivory tower” into the “field of practice.”
Exploring Foundations: Practice as the Pillar of Theory
Upon entering the headquarters of Boda Construction Group, the faculty and students, guided by company representatives, experienced an immersive exploration of the enterprise’s development history and core values. From the company’s thirty-year dedication to the architectural decoration industry, to the practical embodiment of its guiding principle of “Upward and Benevolent,” and its proactive fulfillment of social responsibility, every detail served as a vivid “living textbook.”
Drawing from their academic background in Marxist theory, students engaged in spirited discussions on topics such as “The Convergence of Corporate Responsibility and Historical Mission.” By linking theoretical learning with real-world corporate practices, they demonstrated both a solid grounding in theory and a keen sense of inquiry.
Dialogues that Inspire: Wisdom Guiding Growth
The highlight of the visit was an interactive session with Mr. Xu Kaihong, Founder of Boda Construction Group, who delivered an inspiring and heartfelt talk based on his personal journey. From becoming a “ten-thousand-yuan entrepreneur” through keen business acumen as a university student, to leading his company into the national top 100 amid complex market dynamics, Mr. Xu’s story vividly illustrated the power of dreams and conviction in driving both personal growth and corporate success.
When students raised questions about bridging the gap between academic learning and workplace needs and choosing career directions, Mr. Xu offered pragmatic advice:“The campus is a training ground for trial and error. You must sharpen your problem-solving abilities through practice. True competitiveness comes from inner strength — find your dream, elevate it continuously, and you’ll stand firm in the tides of the times.”
His formula, “Success = Dream × Conviction”, resonated deeply with both faculty and students, sparking a wave of reflection and inspiration.
Empowering Growth: University–Enterprise Synergy for Talent Development
In his concluding remarks, Dean Liu Zhi emphasized that the visit to Boda Construction Group was an important initiative in advancing the School of Marxism’s “Practice-Oriented Education” strategy — and a powerful “lesson in life and ideals.” He noted that the vitality of Marxist theory lies in practice, and that Boda Construction Group, as an enterprise with faith, ideals, and soul, embodies values highly consistent with Marxist principles of human development and social progress.
Dean Liu further connected Mr. Xu’s emphasis on “dreams and conviction” to the broader vision of the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation: from the ideals guiding the nation, to the goals driving enterprises, to the aspirations shaping individual growth — all three together form a powerful force propelling the era forward.
After the event, participating graduate students shared their reflections and insights, expressing gratitude and personal growth from the experience.
Wang Qiaoling,
Master’s Student in Marxist Theory, Class of 2025
“The moment I entered Boda’s headquarters, its architectural design left a deep impression. Mr. Xu’s interpretation of ‘dreams’ enlightened me — I used to drift without clear goals, but now I realize that ‘a person with dreams has a soul.’ I will redefine my aspirations and transform them into real driving forces for growth.”
Yang Xinchen,
Master’s Student in Marxist Theory, Class of 2025
“Boda’s orderly environment, professional staff, and innovation in digital construction technology showcased the company’s leadership. The partner system particularly inspired me — it gave employees genuine internal motivation, providing a vivid example of how enterprises can activate intrinsic vitality and achieve sustainable growth.”
Tian Yuwei,
Master’s Student in Marxist Theory, Class of 2025
“I expected a talk on business strategy, but Mr. Xu’s sharing felt more like a ‘philosophy class on inner strength.’ His ideas — knowing what you truly want, practicing constantly, and acting decisively — revealed that success stems not from external conditions but from inner clarity, belief, and sustained effort. The so-called ‘law of attraction’ is really the harmony of mindset and action.”
Li Ruixue,
Master’s Student in Marxist Theory, Class of 2025
“From the design of Boda’s headquarters to its corporate culture, I was deeply moved. Mr. Xu’s talk felt like an authentic conversation of thought — not preaching, but awakening. His view that ‘everyone has their own life path’ reminded me not to blindly follow others. His idea of ‘raising the level of your dream’ inspired me to distinguish between short-term goals that anchor our steps and long-term dreams that guide our direction.”
Huang Xueying,
Master’s Student in Marxist Theory, Class of 2025
“As someone recovering from a failed startup, Mr. Xu’s talk felt like a turning point. His encouragement to reaffirm goals and trust in one’s potential reignited my entrepreneurial passion and strengthened my determination to face setbacks with conviction and persistence. I hope to grow into a successful entrepreneur and pass on this inspiration to more young people.”
The School of Marxism at Shenzhen University will continue to create platforms that integrate theory with practice, encouraging more students to engage with enterprises and society. Through the unity of knowledge and action, students will live out the Marxist faith in real contexts — serving national development and social progress — and contribute youthful vitality to nurturing a new generation capable of carrying forward the mission of national rejuvenation.
