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I would like to thank the Ministry of Education for giving us
the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the western regions
through this whirlwind visit of eight cities in six provinces in
just nine days. I deeply appreciate the warm hospitality that was
accorded to us throughout our trip. I wish to take this opportunity
to extend my sincere thanks once again to the Ministry of Education,
all the provincial governments, all the university officials and
everyone who has helped to make this trip possible.
It is difficult for people like us who have lived in the cities
for most of our lives to fully appreciate the awe of nature and
the harsh conditions it can sometimes conjure up. Mineral deposits
are often located in remote areas. Vast arid lands are interspersed
with densely populated cities. A strong feeling came over me during
this trip. To overcome geographic disadvantages and lack of natural
resources, fostering talented people is vital. And education is
the key. When you have the human resources, you can find the best
way to utilize your limited natural resources in the most efficient
way. People create progress and progress leads to a better quality
of life.
China's plans to develop the western regions are very encouraging.
This responsibility falls on each and every one of us. However,
to pursue economic development and modernize an entire region is
a difficult task. The central and provincial governments will be
searching for new breakthroughs, but they will also need our concerted
efforts. Only by working together will we be able to help people
living in areas constrained by geographic disadvantages or a dearth
of natural resources.
The west has been targeted for education and human capital development,
and we are honoured to be able to collaborate with the Ministry
of Education on this STAND project. Satellite Transmission Advance
Network for Distance learning, as it is named, is a very innovative
program that will have enormous implications for raising the quality
of education in the west. This method of delivery gives underdeveloped
areas equal access to information, allowing students even in remote
areas to receive the best education that the country has to offer.
In addition, training centres established in institutions of higher
learning will give primary school teachers a chance to upgrade their
skills. With the help of satellite technology, not even the highest
mountain can obstruct the flow of information and knowledge. With
proper access to information, people will gain a much deeper understanding
of the world and develop better judgement as well as a keener sense
of integrity and value.
I have worked for 60 years and have built a large, reputable business.
But I have also experienced very difficult times, such as war, poverty,
sickness and lack of formal education, and I understand the daunting
task of surviving in tough times. Fate is not always kind, and different
people will face different circumstances. There will always be ups
and downs, and we can't give up or feel depressed just because life
is tough. The future is in your hands. I firmly believe that knowledge
can change fate, so we must steadfastly acquire new knowledge. I
had a dream last night. On our motherland, there were well-paved
roads running through the desert; sufficient water and arable land
in arid regions; natural resources were being utilized efficiently;
comfortable living environments in densely populated areas; people
of different racial backgrounds were living in peace and harmony.
I believe that if we have courage, confidence and perseverance,
this dream can gradually come true. Thank you.
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