Beijing – In China, education is more than guidance, it is a nation-building. Elementary schools in this country are designed to not only teach facts, but also shape future citizens. They are intellectually abilities, physically strong, emotionally balanced, and culturally rooted.
This philosophy is not an abstract ideal. You can see every corner of a school, like Beijing First Experimental Primary School. This was an opportunity to visit as part of a media exchange program hosted by the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC).
On Tuesday, our group of international journalists (including themselves from the Tehran era) visited the renowned institution in Beijing’s Xicheng district. Founded in 1912, the school is widely recognized for its advanced approach and excellence in education. But we came across more than a well-run school. It was a living example of China investing in the future through its youngest generation. Our visit began with a warm welcome not only by the school administrators but also by the boy and boy, who were served as English-speaking guides by two 12-year-old students, a boy and a girl. Their ency, confidence, and command of school history were immediately impressive. These students did not just showcase their language skills. They demonstrated the success of a system designed to promote global capabilities based on the pride of the people.
The philosophy here is overall. Students spend eight hours a day at school. Not only does he immerse himself in academic subjects, he also engages in activities that support physical health, artistic growth and emotional well-being. We saw students play basketball, practice ping pong, perform traditional Chinese martial arts, all built into their daily schedules. As guests, we took part in these activities and returned to our own Shelby Day through laughter and sharing movements.
The balance between tradition and modernity was also evident in the school’s music programmes. In the performance hall, we saw the student ensemble play the instruments with impressive adjustments and passion. It was clear that music and art were not treated as options, but as essential tools for fostering discipline, creativity and collaboration.
But it was the student spirit that really moved us. At lunchtime we sat among them and exchanged stories and ideas. Their curiosity about the world beyond China, and their pride in their schools and countries was encouraging. The conversation flowed naturally, and at that moment the importance of cultural exchange became beautifully clear. At the root of all this is China’s deep belief that education is the foundation of social development.
Discussions with school officials learned that the Chinese education system focuses not only on academic success, but also on developing morally responsible, socially involved and globally aware citizens. Respect for the elders, love for the nation, discipline, and a sense of collective purpose are woven into every part of school life.
When we left, the photos we took with the students captured our smiles, but the real point wasn’t specific. Education was a new understanding of how thoughtfully designed, deeply valuable can shape the future of not only individuals but the entire nation. At that Beijing Elementary School, we didn’t just observe the day in the lives of Chinese students. I witnessed a vision for tomorrow and it is already rooted in today.