Editor's note: The Open University of China (OUC) was inaugurated in 2012. In a flash, a glorious decade of exploration and growth has passed, with trials and hardships as well as sweet accomplishments. The university is now reaping what it sowed, and on the occasion of its 10th anniversary we have invited staff members and students to reflect on these last ten years. Let us feel the warmth of their affection!

It takes 10 years to sharpen a sword. The 10 years since the establishment of the Open University of China (OUC) have been filled with passion, innovation and glory, and I am convinced that the leadership of the OUC Party committee will lead it to yet greater heights!

- Yang Zhijian, former president and  secretary of the Party Committee of the OUC

How time flies! It was back in July 2012 that I attended the opening ceremony of the OUC in the Great Hall of the People, and since then we have followed its development closely. The OUC is more than a career to us seniors – it is a home, and always in mind. In recent years, I have also participated in work related to the university’s community education and the Open University for Older Adults, and have been deeply touched by the university's achievements. There have been difficulties, but the results are gratifying, and we look forward to an even brighter future.

- Sun Lyuyi, a retiree representative and former vice president of the OUC

2022 is the year of the 20th National Congress of the CCP, as well as the 10th anniversary of the renaming of Central China Radio and TV University (CCRTVU) as the Open University of China (OUC). At this historic moment, I am thrilled and pleased to belong to the OUC.

It is my belief that the OUC will continue its achievements in adult continuing education and lifelong learning, and I wish to encourage current OUC students to study hard and strive for a brighter future.

- Xiao Baizhou, who enrolled in the Business Administration undergraduate programme in Spring 2022 at the OUC’s Xi’an branch, is the executive chef and chair of the labour union at Shaanxi Jinxiang Restaurant, and a National Senior Cuisine Technician.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the inauguration of the OUC, which in that decade has offered a wide range of training. I extend my best wishes to my Alma Mater as it continues to strive to build a national lifelong-learning system and benefit adult learners.

- Li Chengwai, who enrolled in Chinese Literature in 1982 at the OUC’s Hubei branch, is a founding researcher of the May 7th Cadre School and an expert on cultural research related to Xiangyang Lake.

I am filled with grateful memories as I look back on my studies and life at the OUC.
My wish it success in its continued operations, especially in training professionals for the high-quality development of Chinese agriculture and rural revitalisation.

- Li Chunmeng enrolled in Rural Economic Administration in 2009 at the OUC’s Zhejiang branch. She is now chair of the Lishui City Federation Union for Wild Rice Stem Industry and Agriculture, director of the council of the Liyun County Wuwanyang Fruit and Vegetable Cooperative, and a “National Anti-poverty Role Model” and “National Female Role Model”.

I am disabled, with difficulty moving, and am chair of the board of the Shenyang Employment Centre for the Disabled. I graduated from the OUC, and am thankful to my Alma Mater for shouldering its mission of education for all. It is the openness and broadness of the OUC that helps so many realise their dream of attending university.
To the OUC, my gratitude and blessings are always with you.

- Li Wenjun, who enrolled in the Administration junior-college programme in 2008, is chair of the board of the Shenyang Employment Centre for the Disabled.