Liangshan’s rural compulsory education project paving way for inclusive growth

Education is a powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty, and the compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province aims to ensure that every child receives a qualified education. The village has witnessed the construction of new schools equipped with modern facilities. Additionally, existing schools have been renovated to provide a conducive learning environment.

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

To address teacher shortages and improve the quality of education, the local government has recruited qualified teachers and provided them with ongoing professional development opportunities. Innovative teaching methods and updated curricula have been introduced, focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills. These improvements have significantly raised the standard of education in the village.

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows poverty reduction officials from developing countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria and Pakistan, exploring the rural compulsory education project in Zhongba Village, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

By ensuring that children receive a solid education, the project equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education and better employment opportunities. Educated individuals are more likely to secure well-paying jobs, which in turn can lift their families out of poverty.