Famous historian Ge Jianxiong (center) speaks at the round table discussion. [Photo/Chinadaily.com.cn]

According to Wang, though it started in 2002, the teaching level and international popularity of Tsinghua's EMBA has developed rapidly. In the Financial Times annual EMBA program rankings for 2014, which evaluates EMBA programs according to 16 factors, including current salary and student satisfaction, Chinese and China-joint programs occupied 13 of the top 50 places, and Tsinghua EMBA ranked third.

"The rapid development of the EMBA program in China echoes the country's economic rise in the past decade. Now, we pay more attention to incorporating Chinese elements into a Western module. The contest is part of our innovation," Wang said.

Ge Jianxiong, the well-known Chinese historian, stressed that he appreciates the contest, and will hike with the participants. He also will give lectures about the Belt and Road Initiative from historical and cultural angles.

Lian Ji, director of the Publicity Department of the Gansu Provincial Party Committee, talked about the development of Gansu province's economy and tourism under the Belt and Road Initiative. He also promised that as one of the sponsors, the committee's Publicity Department will provide services and fully support the contest.

Senior management from AB Volvo Group China, Toread Holdings Group Co. Ltd, Ourpalm Co. Ltd and other sponsors also attended the opening ceremony, and took part in a round table discussion on the subject, "How to innovate and develop under the new normal of the economic growth rate".