SYSU Professor Honored with French Order of Academic Palms

Professor Zeng Xiaoyang, Director of the French Department at School of Foreign Languages of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), was awarded the French Order of the Academic Palms for her contributions to Sino-French higher education cooperation and cultural exchange.

The honor was presented on March 28 by Mr. Laurent Legodec, Consul General of France in Guangzhou, on behalf of the French Ministry of National Education.

Professor Zeng Xiaoyang receives the insignia of Knight of the Order of the Academic Palms at a ceremony on March 28, 2026.

The decoration recognizes Professor Zeng's long-standing dedication to French language education and her pivotal role in fostering academic and cultural cooperation between China and France.

Founded in 1808 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Order of the Academic Palms is one of France's oldest civilian honor orders. It is reserved exclusively for individuals who have made exceptional, far-reaching contributions to advancing French education and culture across the globe. Consul General Legodec praised Professor Zeng for her "cross-cultural vision" and for establishing SYSU's French Department as a renowned center of academic excellence.

Accepting the honor, Professor Zeng shared that the distinction reflects the strength of Sun Yat-sen University as much as her own career. Having spent years immersed in French history and philosophy, she touched upon the deeper significance of her academic journey.

"Human beings are fragile, yet they achieve eternity through thought; life is fleeting, yet it becomes noble through the pursuit of truth," she remarked. She emphasized that the medal serves as both a recognition of past work and a responsibility to continue promoting civilizational dialogue.

Professor Zeng Xiaoyang delivers a speech at the ceremony.

Professor Zeng is the fourth scholar from SYSU’s School of Foreign Languages to receive this prestigious honor, following in the footsteps of Professors Cheng Zenghou, Wang Bin, and Pu Zhihong. This achievement underscores the university's long-standing leadership in French studies and its role as a key player in Sino-French educational cooperation.

Looking ahead, SYSU remains committed to its role as a strategic bridge for international exchange. By deepening partnerships with French academic institutions and cultivating high-level linguistic talents, the university continues to serve as a vital platform for Sino-French cultural diplomacy and the development of a global community with a shared future.