By Staff Writer
Children represent the future of a nation, and how a society nurtures its young generation determines its long-term vitality and direction. In this context, President Xi Jinping’s consistent emphasis on the holistic growth of children highlights the core of China’s people-centered development philosophy. At a symposium held in Beijing on improving the intellectual and moral standards of minors, Xi’s instructions on caring for children’s all-round development were conveyed, underscoring the importance of disciplined upbringing, intellectual cultivation, moral guidance, and physical and psychological well-being. These directives reflect a deep understanding that caring for every citizen begins at the earliest stage of life.
Xi Jinping has repeatedly stressed that education is not merely about academic achievement, but about shaping well-rounded individuals who possess moral integrity, intellectual curiosity, physical health, aesthetic appreciation, and a strong sense of social responsibility. His guidance at the symposium reaffirmed that minors should be guided to grow with discipline, sound values, and the ability to think independently. Such an approach recognizes that children are not passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in their own growth and in the future development of society.
Moral education occupies a central place in Xi’s vision for children’s development. He has emphasized the importance of instilling core values from an early age, helping children distinguish right from wrong, cultivate empathy, and develop respect for others and for society. By integrating moral education into daily learning and life experiences, schools, families, and communities can work together to shape responsible and upright citizens. This focus on moral standards is not about rigid instruction, but about guiding children through positive examples and meaningful practice, allowing values to take root naturally.
Intellectual development is another key pillar of Xi’s instructions. In an era of rapid technological change and global competition, nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning is essential. Xi has called for educational systems that reduce excessive academic pressure while improving teaching quality, encouraging curiosity and innovation rather than rote memorization. By creating a supportive learning environment, children are better equipped to develop their talents, discover their interests, and build confidence in their abilities.
Equally important is the emphasis on discipline and healthy habits. Discipline, as highlighted in Xi’s guidance, is not about harsh control but about helping children develop self-management skills, perseverance, and a sense of responsibility. Combined with attention to physical fitness and mental health, this approach supports balanced growth. Sports, arts, and extracurricular activities are encouraged as integral parts of education, contributing to both physical strength and emotional resilience.
The symposium also reflected a broader social responsibility toward children. Xi’s people-centered philosophy calls on governments, schools, families, and society as a whole to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for minors. Protecting children’s rights, ensuring equal access to quality education, and providing special care for disadvantaged groups are essential components of this vision. By addressing both material conditions and emotional needs, society can ensure that no child is left behind.
Ultimately, Xi Jinping’s focus on the holistic growth of children demonstrates a long-term, strategic perspective on national development. By placing children at the center of policy and social concern, China reinforces the idea that the well-being of individuals and the strength of the nation are deeply interconnected. Investing in children’s moral, intellectual, and physical development is not only an act of care, but a commitment to a more harmonious, innovative, and resilient future. Through this people-centered approach, care for every citizen truly begins at a young stage, laying a solid foundation for generations to come.
