On September 21, 2024, NJU held a grand celebration for the 100th anniversary of its Atmospheric Sciences discipline. Over 500 guests, including representatives from research institutions, government departments, alumni, and business leaders, gathered to mark this significant milestone.

The Atmospheric Sciences program was founded at NJU by renowned meteorologist, geographer, and educator Zhu Kezhen in 1924. Over the past century, the discipline has made substantial contributions in the areas of weather, climate, and atmospheric physics and environment. 

In his speech, University President Tan Zhemin reflected on the history of the program and highlighted three key goals: enhancing international influence, leading scientific innovation, and advancing educational reform. 

Deputy Head of the China Meteorological Administration, Xiong Shaoyuan, emphasized NJU’s pivotal role in training China’s meteorological talent and contributing to the nation's meteorological science development.

Several new funds were announced during the event, including the "Nanjing University Atmospheric Sciences Development Fund," donated by an anonymous alumnus, the "Poon Lok To Climate Change Talent Fund" from Dr. Otto Poon Lok To, and the "Atmospheric Science Innovation Awards Fund," supported by academicians and corporations. These funds aim to further advance the development of the Atmospheric Sciences discipline at NJU and support talent cultivation and innovation research.

Ding Aijun, Assistant President of NJU, presided the ceremony.

A forum on the frontiers in Atmospheric Science Forum was also held. Experters and scholars discussed the challenges of global climate change and the future of the field.