Dear Graduands, your families, friends, and Dr. Willem Fourie, Chair of the NZCCM Academic Board, and colleagues,
Welcome to the April 2025 Graduation Ceremony. Thank you all for being here today to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students.
Today is a truly special occasion for our graduands — a milestone that marks the completion of a long, challenging, and deeply rewarding academic journey at our College. On behalf of our Principal, Dr. Jessica Li Feng, and myself, I offer our warmest congratulations. You have worked very hard, and your dedication has brought you to this proud moment. You have done an outstanding job; you fully deserve this celebration and recognition.
The graduation certificate you are about to receive is far more than a symbol — it is a formal recognition of your competence and readiness to join the profession as a qualified health practitioner. I’m so proud to see you prepared, and ready to serve your patients, your loved ones, and your communities.
Of course, graduation is not the end — it marks the beginning of your professional journey. The road ahead may bring new challenges, but I have every confidence in your ability to meet them with skill and determination.
I hope your registration with the Chinese Medicine Council — or your relevant authority — will proceed smoothly, and that you will go on to establish a successful practice in the years ahead.
I also wish you to remain lifelong learners. Never stop seeking new knowledge, whether through further study, clinical experience, or deep engagement with the rich traditions of Traditional Medicine. Over time, your understanding of its philosophy will grow — through studying the classics, exploring different schools of thought, and reflecting on your own clinical journey. This journey will help you see the differences between Traditional and Western Medicine, and also help you stay grounded in Traditional Medicine values while finding smart, meaningful ways to bring both worlds together.
As registered health practitioners in Aotearoa New Zealand, your responsibilities go beyond clinical skill. You must also uphold cultural safety and meet the standards set out by the Chinese Medicine Council under the HPCA Act 2003. These include maintaining your scope of practice, practicing ethically, and showing respect for the cultural values of the people you care for.
Traditional Medicine has a bright and growing future in New Zealand — and you are at the heart of that future. Your dedication strengthens our professional community and helps shape the direction and development of our field. You are the next generation of leaders, educators, and healers.
Before I conclude, I want to sincerely thank you for the unique contributions you have made to the life and culture of our college. You have truly left your mark here, and we are all better for it. You will always be part of our college family, and I hope you continue to stay connected and be part of our ongoing journey.
Congratulations once again — and I wish you every success as you begin this exciting new chapter in your career.
Thank you.
Stephen Xu, the CEO, 23 April 2025
