Water protection wins hearts and minds

Conditions to grow

The school offers the conditions for Sun's daughter, who is a fourth grader, to harness her interests.

Inspired by animations, the 9-year-old is fond of playing soccer and joined the school team last year, attending training almost every day.

Although Sun said he doesn't understand his daughter's passion for a sport he finds more suitable for boys, he still supports and accompanies her to training. His only hope is that his little girl will grow up healthy.

Guo Min, a 23-year-old local, joined the school as a Chinese language teacher this year. She studied at a university in Jilin province－a bigger place with more employment opportunities－but returned home after graduation.

She said her job is fulfilling and she thinks the school has huge potential. The young teacher said many of her friends also teach at the school and are happy with their jobs.

Sun grew up in the foothills of the Sanbaishan Mountain, so he has understood the importance of protecting the Dongjiang River since he was a child. His daughter studies at the school that was built in return for the local people's endeavors to protect the river, and that bond has resulted in mutual support, he said.

Anyuan's residents did not expect anything in return for their dedication, but their actions have echoed loudly in the hearts of the people they have helped, and they have been treated with kindness and warmth in return.