During the summer of 2024, the QMES social practice team, titled “Co-creating a New Picture of Rural Revitalisation in Zunyi”, undertook a field study in Zunyi, Guizhou, under the guidance of Liu Jia, a counsellor from the class of 2023. The team engaged in the theme of “Red Genes and Folk Charm”, immersing themselves in the enriching experience of red culture and drawing wisdom and youthful strength for their future endeavours.

Followed the Red Footsteps, Maintained the Revolutionary Spirit

The practice team first visited the site of the Zunyi Conference. Under the guidance of a narrator, the team explored the simple yet solemn building, which housed revolutionary artefacts, historical documents, and photographs. As they gazed upon the path treaded by their revolutionary predecessors, the members felt as though they too had traversed the arduous and tumultuous era of transformation. While reflecting on those passionate years, the students gained a profound understanding of the heroic spirit embodied by the revolutionary martyrs—one of bravery, resilience, and a willingness to explore.

Subsequently, the practice team proceeded to Mao Zedong’s former residence. Numerous valuable historical artefacts showcased Comrade Mao Zedong’s resilience and intelligence in the face of adversity. The team members developed a deeper understanding and appreciation of the great leader’s arduous efforts in confronting risks and challenges, as well as the hard-won nature of today’s happy life.

The practice team also visited the site of the Goubai Conference. Following the historical traces of “a lantern, a narrow path, and a significant decision”, they experienced firsthand how revolutionary predecessors strategised and achieved victory from afar. This deepened their understanding of the ideals and convictions of the older generation of revolutionaries, characterised by their commitment to truth, unity in progress, courage to take responsibility, and loyalty to the Party.

At Mount Loushan Pass, the practice team revisited Chairman Mao’s poem “Recalling the Lady Qin at Loushan Pass”, embodying the spirit of “the majestic pass is as solid as iron, yet today we stride forward anew”. As a crucial pass along the Long March of the Red Army, the significance of Loushan Pass lies not only in its geographical position but also in its cultural and spiritual value. Standing atop the pass, the team was filled with deep admiration for the bravery and fearlessness of the revolutionary martyrs, which further strengthened their resolve to contribute to the development of the Party and the nation in the new era.

During this time, the practice team visited the Crossing the Chishui River Four times Memorial. Through various exhibits and advanced digital presentations, they gained a deeper understanding of the Red Army’s remarkable achievements during the Four Crossings. The team members expressed their sentiments, stating: “As the youth of our era, we must remain true to our original aspirations, strive diligently, inherit the red gene, and continuously work hard to contribute to the unrelenting pursuit of the Chinese Dream for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation”.

Explored Diverse Cultures, Experienced Rural Revitalisation

Under the leadership of Liu Jia, the practice team arrived at Huamao Village, acclaimed as a “Beautiful Leisurely Countryside in China” and a prime example of the rural revitalisation strategy. Huamao Village adopts the development philosophy that “mountains and rivers green are mountains of silver and gold”, fostering a comprehensive green transformation in regional rural development. During their visit, the team engaged in deeper discussion with village committee officials, gaining insights into the local industrial structure, ecological environment, and customs and traditions, thereby deeply appreciating the achievements of rural revitalisation in the area.

During this period, the practice team ventured into Tucheng Ancient Town, immersing themselves in the historical charm and local atmosphere of the area. The flagstone streets and wooden houses all conveyed a sense of the weighty history and enduring legacy of the place.

The team also visited the Zunyi Museum, which comprehensively showcases the rich heritage of Guizhou’s wine culture, from ancient brewing techniques to modern winemaking technologies. The museum highlights both the profound significance of this culture locally and its far-reaching impact on wine culture across the nation.

Reflecting on the arduous journey of perseverance and looking forward to the path of progress for the youth, the practice team members, through this summer social practice, embraced red education and internalised revolutionary spirit. They engaged at the grassroots level, honing their willpower and character, leveraging their professional strengths to serve rural communities, truly developing formidable skills and contributing to the strength of the youth. The students expressed a commitment to continuously draw inspiration from the glorious history of the Party, effectively transforming the lessons of revolution into motivation for learning. They pledged to turn their love for the Party and their country into a determination to serve and strengthen the nation. Upholding truth, taking responsibility, and being proactive, they vowed to embody the resolute promise of “Rest assured, Party, I am here to strengthen the nation”, and to take on the responsibilities of modernisation in the Chinese context.

(Text: Zhang Renyuan, Li Zhiyuheng; Photo: Zhang Renyuan, Li Zhiyuheng; Edit: Han Huichun; 

Translate: Shen Xinyi; Review: Cheng Yin)