A Chinese mathematical genius solved in one night a complex maths problem that had baffled six PhD students for months.
A remarkable mathematical feat
In a story reminiscent of Good Will Hunting, Chinese mathematical genius Wei Dongyi solved a complex equation overnight.
This equation had stumped PhD students for months, but Dongyi cracked it in a single night.
Dongyi, an assistant professor at Peking University, was approached by students struggling with the difficult problem. His solution came as a surprise and a relief to the group of students.
Helping students without expecting compensation
Despite being offered compensation for his help, Dongyi declined, stating that the problem was too easy to require payment.
Instead, after helping the students adjust their experiment, which resulted in a model with a 96% success rate, Dongyi’s only reward was a transport card paid for by the students.
Dongyi’s humility in refusing payment reflects his dedication to the academic world, where the pursuit of knowledge is his true motivation.
Dongyi’s brilliance does not surprise those who know him.
Chen Dayue, dean of Peking University’s School of Mathematical Sciences, explained that Dongyi’s ability to solve such problems is typical of his focused and brilliant nature.
A former classmate of Dongyi described him as disciplined, noting that he was easily recognizable on campus, always carrying a 1.5-liter plastic bottle and walking quickly.
Despite his academic success, winning over 100,000 yuan in scholarships each year, Dongyi maintains a modest lifestyle, with simple food choices and plain clothing.
Dongyi stays humble after becoming famous
Dongyi first gained viral attention in 2021 when an interview clip of him with his large plastic water bottle made the rounds online.
The clip sparked an outpouring of gifts, including replacements for his worn-out bottle. However, Dongyi expressed discomfort about the attention and the gifts, concerned that it could affect his teaching ethics.
Additionally, Wei Dongyi’s story serves as a reminder of the value of intellectual humility and dedication.
He is not driven by fame or material reward but by a true love for mathematics and a commitment to helping others.
In short, his simple, focused lifestyle and humble attitude make him an inspiring figure in academia.