On June 7, the Jiangxi Provincial Final of the 30th China Daily 21st Century Cup National English Speaking Competition concluded at Nanchang University, with only two contestants selected per university. Demonstrating exceptional linguistic prowess, rigorous logical reasoning, and steady stage presence, two students from Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics (JUFE) achieved outstanding results: Shen Ningyue claimed first place (advancing to the national finals), while Wu Yuxin secured third prize.

Established in 1996 by China Daily, the 21st Century Cup was included in the 2023 National College Student Competition Analysis Report as a Category II accredited contest. Recognized as the sole Chinese qualifying event for the International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC), the tournament enjoys academic support from the English-Speaking Union (ESU) and TESOL International Association. Its three-tier structure -campus preliminaries, regional finals, and national championships -provides a progressive platform for youth to hone their storytelling skills on global stages.

Twenty-five contestants from universities across Jiangxi competed in three rigorous segments: prepared speeches, impromptu addresses, and on-site Q&A, testing their linguistic fluency, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication abilities. Under the theme “Live Within and Beyond the 21st Century,” JUFE representatives explored maintaining inclusivity in a tech-driven era and confronting AI-related challenges. During the impromptu round addressing social media’s societal impact, their quick-witted responses and articulate delivery earned high praise from judges.

     Following three months of intensive coaching - refining scripted speeches, sharpening spontaneous thinking, and polishing presentation skills - the guidance team celebrated a collaborative victory. Vice Dean Du Jingping, Associate Professor Zhang Jianli, and instructor Huang Yanhong remarked emotionally, “This triumph reflects teamwork. The arduous preparation was rewarded by the contestants’ remarkable growth.” Embodying JUFE’s motto of “Fidelity, Excellence, Dedication and Perseverance,” these students illuminated the stage with global perspectives, amplifying China’s voice through eloquence and insight.

 (Translated by Zhu Jianping and Zhang Shanjun)