In order to fully implement the guiding principles set forth in the Party's 20th National Congress and effectively study and implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions regarding the practice of investigation and research, Ju Chuanjin, chairman of the Education Foundation of the Open University of China (OUC) in Beijing, led a delegation to the key paired counties of Li in Gansu and Butuo in Sichuan.
This visit aimed to conduct comprehensive on-the-spot investigation and research in alignment with the requirements of the in-depth study and implementation of the thematic education campaign on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The initiative was carried out in accordance with The Work Plan on Promoting the Practice of Investigation and Research Among the Whole Party and the arrangements made by the Rural Revitalisation Leading Group of the Ministry of Education, from 17th to 20th May 2023.
Focused on the themes of "high-quality development of rural education countywide" and "enhancing the role of education in supporting the rural revitalisation strategy," the investigation and research group visited 3 middle schools, 4 primary schools, and 2 kindergartens. They conducted 8 round-table meetings and interviewed 3 individuals. Throughout these engagements, the group gathered comprehensive information on the infrastructure development, teachers, educational and teaching philosophies, unique initiatives, as well as the challenges faced by the educational institutions in Li and Butuo counties.
The investigation and research group developed The OUC's Paired Thematic Investigation and Research Plan for Butuo and Li Counties Respectively in Sichuan and Gansu Provinces. This plan outlined the objectives, scope, and approach of the investigation and research, as well as the necessary work arrangements and requirements.
Through interviews, random sampling, and typical analysis, the investigation and research group visited various grassroots locations in both counties. They conducted group discussions, gathered information on the local education landscape within the context of the investigation and research themes, explored exemplary grassroots innovation experiences, and identified key challenges. Additionally, the group organized dedicated meetings to comprehensively summarize the findings of the investigation and research. This facilitated in-depth analysis and thorough deliberation, allowing them to identify lessons to be learned, replicable practices, and strategies for popularization. They also studied potential countermeasures and focused on transforming research outcomes into actionable ideas, measures, and policy recommendations aimed at problem-solving.
Moving forward, the OUC will seize the opportunity presented by the on-the-spot investigation and research to delve deeper into problem-solving, devise effective measures, and enhance collaboration. They will strive to achieve significant breakthroughs and superior outcomes in the crucial paired assistance efforts for national rural revitalisation. Furthermore, the OUC is committed to leveraging its capabilities to support educational revitalisation in Butuo County of Sichuan Province and Li County of Gansu Province, making a valuable contribution to these regions.
Written by Lin Mang and Yang Li, photographed by Miao Linbo and Lin Mang