On August 9^th, 2025, the opening ceremony of the Global Entrepreneurship Summer School (GESS) was successfully held at Tongji University. 27 participants from 12 countries, including China, Germany, Mexico, and South Africa, gathered to embark on this global journey of innovation and entrepreneurship.  

Guests of the ceremony included XIE En, Dean of Tongji University’s School of Economics and Management(hereinafter referred to as Tongji SEM); QU Chen, Deputy Director of Tongji’s Foreign Affairs Office; DONG Bianlin, Deputy Dean of Tongji SEM ; YU Qingquan, Deputy Secretary of the Youth League Committee of Tongji University; Carola VOGEL, representative of the supervising teachers from GESS Munich; and PEI Pei, Secretary of the Youth League Committee of the School of Economics and Management.

In his opening speech, Dean XIE En highlighted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of GESS Shanghai. He emphasized GESS’s core spirit of the “Four I’s” – Innovation, Inclusion, Integration, and Impact – encouraging participants to explore boldly, unleash diverse creativity, integrate cross-disciplinary ideas, and turn innovations into practical solutions to global challenges. He expressed hope that the 7-day program would spark creativity and foster friendship among all.

QU Chen introduced Tongji University’s long history and achievements in internationalization, noting that the university promotes collaborative innovation through high-level international scientific and technological cooperation. He put forward three expectations for the participants: to keep their imagination alive, strengthen communication, and spread kindness. He believes GESS will serve as a valuable platform for global young entrepreneurs to shine.

Carola VOGEL, representing GESS Munich, shared her experiences and insights from participating in GESS, inspiring the attendees and bringing international entrepreneurial wisdom to the program.  

Alumni representative LI Yi’an recalled his journey with GESS – from the 2023 Munich program to volunteering at the 2024 Shanghai session and attending the South African summit – emphasizing how GESS’s philosophy of “Learning, Serving, Connecting” has profoundly influenced his career. He described GESS as “the brightest part of youth” and encouraged new members to explore bravely, not fear mistakes, and support others.

GESS 2025 participant representative Mati Ur REHMAN shared his heartwarming experience as a volunteer at GESS 2024, calling it meaningful. He expressed hope that this year’s program would further promote cross-cultural exchanges and build a broader stage for global young entrepreneurs.

After the opening ceremony, participants learned about the program rules, GESS values, and key notes. They then engaged in ice-breaking activities, including meet-ups with coaches and volunteers, games like “Name Chain,” “Human Alphabet,” and “Guess the False Fact About Me,” as well as talent shows. These activities helped break the ice, fostering familiarity and laying a solid foundation for future collaboration.

Founded by Germany’s 4E Alliance in 2008, GESS aims to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It offers a 7-day curriculum to cultivate young students’ entrepreneurial and professional skills, driving positive social change. Tongji University became the first Asian partner in 2015, hosting the program in Shanghai. This year, GESS will be held in Munich, Shanghai, and Querétaro, welcoming students from over 30 countries across five continents.

Over the next week, participants will explore cutting-edge entrepreneurial ideas, share global experiences and wisdom, and contribute to global innovation and cooperation.