South African Fo Guang Youth Graduates from University of Pretoria, Wins Four Major Academic Awards

The graduation ceremony of University of Pretoria was held on May 29. Fo Guang youth Ching-Yi Lu graduated with outstanding academic achievements, sweeping four major awards in one ceremony: the Top Honours Student in the Department Award, Best Dissertation Award, Creative Writing Award, and African Writing Award. She was awarded a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in English, bringing pride to the Chinese community in South Africa.

 Ching-Yi Lu, a youth member of the Buddha's Light International Association, grew up in Newcastle, South Africa. Since childhood, she has received care and guidance from the monastics of Nan Hua Temple and fellow Fo Guang members. Nurtured by both faith and education, she developed steadily and, through her passion for literature and persistent hard work, achieved exceptional academic success, graduating at the top of her department.

Founded in 1908, the University of Pretoria is one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning and a leading research university in Africa. Ching-Yi's research dissertation was selected as the Best Dissertation of the Year. Her strong creative abilities also earned her the Creative Writing Award, while her in-depth study of African literature won her the African Writing Award, making her one of the most outstanding graduates of her class.

In addition to her academic excellence, Ching-Yi Lu served as a teaching assistant in the Department of English while pursuing her honours degree. She assisted students with academic tutoring and research projects. Despite balancing teaching responsibilities with a demanding course load, she maintained excellent grades throughout, demonstrating exceptional time-management skills and professionalism, and earning the respect and recognition of both faculty and students.

In an academic environment filled with native English speakers, it is a remarkable achievement for a Chinese student to excel in the field of English literature and simultaneously receive four major awards. Ching-Yi Lu's accomplishments not only reflect her personal dedication and talent but also highlight the competitiveness of Chinese scholars on the international academic stage. Her success serves as an inspiring role model for young Chinese people in South Africa.

Notably, Ching-Yi Lu's aunt, Jessica Lu, President of the Newcastle Chapter of the Buddha’s Light International Association South Africa, made a special round trip of nearly ten hours by car with her husband to attend the graduation ceremony and witness this important milestone. The support and blessings of family and friends added a warm and touching atmosphere to the occasion and reflected the strong bonds within the Fo Guang family.

Jessica Lu stated that her niece’s degree and four prestigious awards were not only the result of individual effort but also a reflection of the collective support and achievements of the Fo Guang family. She expressed gratitude to Nan Hua Temple for its long-term educational guidance and cultivation, which has enabled young people to develop in a balanced way in character, academics, and faith, and to shine on the international stage.

The Newcastle Chapter of the Buddha’s Light International Association South Africa also expressed great pride and satisfaction in Ching-Yi Lu's outstanding achievements. The association wished her continued success in literary research and education, encouraging her to reach even greater heights and expand the horizons of her future career and life.