Choi Kai Yau College visited No.2 Primary School in Xiushui County, Jiangxi Province for volunteer teaching - Choi Kai Yau College

On June 16–26, 2024, a group of eleven students and one staff member from Choi Kai Yau College (CKYC) of the University of Macau (UM) volunteered to teach at Xiushui County No. 2 Primary School in Jiangxi Province. As part of this volunteer teaching program, college students taught the pupils in the daytime as well as participated in team reflections in the evening. They actively discussed pedagogy and content, encouraged each other, and continuously improved their methods. UM students also engaged with the teachers at the No.2 primary school, enhancing their understanding of pupils and maximising the impact of their teaching.

During PE classes, students taught the children how to form lines and jump rope, which improved their teamwork and coordination. Through art classes, students taught children how to make intricate origami maple leaves and colorful fluid bears that foster their artistic creativity. In music classes, students taught children to play the recorder. The final day’s performances showcased the students’ learning achievements and joyful spirits, with melodies like “Jingle Bells” and “Ode to Joy” echoing through the campus.

In addition to teaching subjects, University of Macau students meticulously prepared presentations on Macau’s history, geography, and local customs. They introduced the children to various aspects of Macau and patiently answered their questions, planting seeds of curiosity about the wider world.

After the final talent show, students and teachers from Xiushui County No. 2 Primary School held a heartfelt farewell ceremony for the University of Macau volunteers. The children made their own greeting cards and flowers. The primary school teachers also delivered sincere and moving speeches, expressing gratitude for UM students’ knowledge and joy. This compassionate journey not only opened doors to knowledge for the children but also built bridges of friendship between students from different regions. Several expressed their hope that education and spreading this love would continue.

The leading staff of the group, non-resident fellow of CKYC and professor of ICMS, Zheng Ying, said: “Xiushui County, Jiangxi Province is a designated target for Macau’s assistance. I hope that in the future, Macao will have an increased number of capable and caring students, teachers, and social forces to continue volunteer teaching and other activities over there.”

Lam Tai Man, a freshman from the volunteer teaching team, reflected, ‘Two weeks may be short, but a lifetime is long. Although we couldn’t impart all knowledge in two weeks, we aimed to instill reverence and enthusiasm for learning. While two weeks can’t change a person’s entire life, we aim to ignite courage and perseverance in pursuing dreams. Education’s essence lies in one tree swaying another, one cloud propelling another, and one soul awakening another. May we all become gentle breezes, stirring more dormant hearts.’

Wang Yuhuan, another freshman, shared, ‘During this time, I felt compelled to make up for regrets from my own student days. I wanted to fulfill the requests I once made as an unnoticed student and become the kind of teacher I admired. Two weeks may be brief, but I hope to bring joy and music to these children.’

Zhao Yushi, a junior, reflected on the deep connections she formed with the children in just ten days. Teaching and learning came hand in hand, and volunteering enhanced her personal abilities. Even after just one class, the children remembered our names and greeted us enthusiastically every day.”

Written by: Zhao Yushi