In a tradition spanning more than a decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping has consistently prioritized engagement with the younger generation, blending environmental stewardship with hands-on education. Through annual voluntary tree-planting activities in Beijing, the President works side-by-side with students, emphasizing the importance of labor and nature.
These activities go beyond simple gardening. Whether swinging a shovel to turn the soil or carrying water for irrigation, the President's participation serves as a living lesson for the students. During these sessions, President Xi often engages personally with the children, inquiring about their studies, their favorite sports, and their knowledge of the specific saplings they are planting.
Central to this tradition is the philosophy of nurturing a genuine connection to the earth. President Xi has noted that while children are naturally lively, the primary goal of these activities is to instill in them a deep-seated love for labor and a conscious awareness of environmental protection.
Earlier this year, in March 2026, President Xi joined a tree-planting initiative in Beijing's Changping District. During the event, he drew a poignant parallel between the young saplings and the youth themselves, noting that both are full of vitality and hope. He encouraged the students to set ambitious goals from an early age and to strive for well-rounded development—one that balances moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility, and practical work skills.
By guiding children through the physical challenges of planting—such as teaching them how to properly mound soil around roots—President Xi continues to promote a holistic approach to growth, ensuring that the future generations of the Chinese mainland are rooted in both knowledge and a commitment to the natural world.
Reference(s):
Planting the future: Xi's tree-planting tradition with children
cgtn.com
