Starry SJTU

I. Institutional Background

Shanghai Jiao Tong University is a national key university directly affiliated with the Ministry of Education and co-constructed with the Shanghai Municipal Government. It is part of China’s Double First-Class Initiative, Project 985 and Project 211. As a comprehensive, research-intensive world-class university, it covers disciplines including science, engineering, medicine, economics, management, liberal arts and law. Minhang Campus serves as the university’s main campus, responsible for core teaching, scientific research and talent development.

II. Historical Development

Founded in 1896 as Nanyang Public School, Shanghai Jiao Tong University is one of the earliest modern institutions of higher education in China. It was named Jiaotong University in 1921 and has long been renowned as the “MIT of the East”. It was officially established as Shanghai Jiao Tong University in 1959. Minhang Campus was completed and put into use in 1987 and has become the university’s principal base for education and research. With more than 120 years of history, the university has a profound academic heritage and strong academic strength.

III. Educational Philosophy

Guided by its official motto “Drain Water Think of the Source; Patriotism and Honor to the University”, the university upholds the educational tradition of “high starting point, solid foundation, strict requirements, emphasis on practice and pursuit of innovation”. It focuses on value shaping, competency development, knowledge inquiry and personality cultivation, and is committed to nurturing high-caliber innovative talents with patriotism, global vision, innovative spirit and practical ability to serve national development and social progress.

Shanghai Jiao Tong University boasts a profound cultural heritage, a long-standing educational tradition, and an inspiring journey of persistent development. Its remarkable achievements, especially since the reform and opening-up, have earned widespread recognition both at home and abroad.

As a century-old prestigious university that has cultivated generations of outstanding talents, SJTU is forging ahead with strong momentum. Upholding the mission of inheriting civilization and pursuing truth, and shouldering the responsibility of rejuvenating China and benefiting humanity, the university is steadily advancing toward the goal of building a world-class university with Chinese characteristics.

School Motto

"When you drink from the stream, remember the spring; Love your country and honor your alma mater"

This motto is the highly condensed expression of Shanghai Jiao Tong University's century-long educational spirit. Rooted in the university's profound historical heritage, it embodies the values cherished by generations of SJTU members and serves as the spiritual core guiding the university to stay true to its original aspiration and carry forward its legacy.

"When you drink from the stream, remember the spring" advocates gratitude and remembrance of one's origin, reflecting the university's humanistic spirit. "Love your country and honor your alma mater" emphasizes patriotism and a strong sense of responsibility, encouraging students to connect personal growth with national progress and the university's reputation.

The motto establishes a spiritual beacon for the university and its students, inspiring all SJTU members to pursue academic excellence, uphold moral integrity, and contribute to building a world-class university and serving national development with dedication and action.