Five years after his death, Professor Yang Enze's legacy continues to shape lives in his hometown of Suocheng Town in Raoping County, Guangdong Province of China. The annual "Chenghe Scholarship," established by the late Tianjin University educator, was awarded this September at Suocheng Town Central Primary School, maintaining a tradition that began in 2007.
A photo of Prof. Yang Enze
Yang Enze, born in 1919 in Suocheng Town, Raoping County, Guangdong Province, used to be a professor and doctoral supervisor at the School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Tianjin University. He is one of the pioneers of optical fiber communication in China and has achieved significant accomplishments in the field of radio communication. He also established the first optical fiber communication laboratory in Tianjin.
Professor Yang passed away on October 9, 2019, at the age of 100. He left specific instructions in his will to continue his philanthropic efforts, which began as early as 2005 when he donated all his life savings to help build a new building at Suocheng Town Central Primary School.
His son, Yang Shi, has diligently carried out these wishes.Following the sale of his father's property, Yang Shi distributed the 3 million yuan proceeds according to the will: 500,000 yuan to Tianjin University's School of Electrical and Information Engineering, 1 million yuan to the university, and 1.5 million yuan to Suocheng Town Central Primary School.
"We've fulfilled his last wishes," Yang Shi told reporters. "Father has truly returned to his roots."
Professor Yang's 70-year teaching career, which began in 1943, saw him educate countless students across several prestigious Chinese institutions. Despite his achievements, colleagues remember him for his humility. "This was a collective effort," he would often say when praised.
In his later years, Professor Yang focused on improving education in his hometown. He facilitated computer donations to local schools and personally contributed 300,000 yuan to construct the "Chenghe Science Building" at Suocheng Town Central Primary School in 2006, even while battling cancer.
In 2006, the science building at the primary school in Yang Enze's hometown, which he had supported during its construction, was completed.
Yang Shi revealed that his father led a frugal lifestyle, often repairing his own belongings and living modestly. However, Professor Yang remained active and curious, playing tennis until 93 and continuing his research until shortly before his death.
"I am an ordinary teacher of the people," Professor Yang once stated. "Everything I have is given by the party and the people, and I want to give everything back to them."
On October 18th, two days before Professor Yang's 105th birthday, Tianjin University's School of Electrical and Information Engineering held a commemorative gathering. Faculty and students remembered him as a "genuine gentleman" whose words continue to inspire.
Prof. Yang's statue stands at the Suocheng Town Central Primary School.
The impact of Professor Yang's generosity is evident in Suocheng Town. The pine tree planted in his memory has grown, and plans are underway to expand the "Chenghe Science Building." Every Teachers' Day, students honor "Grandpa Yang Enze" with flowers.
School principal Yang Zhenyong sees this as an invaluable lesson for the students. "This is the best education we can offer our children," he said, emphasizing the importance of generosity and dedication.
As Professor Yang's legacy continues to touch lives, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact one individual can have on their community and future generations.
By Eva Yin
