Interviewer: When we discuss the strength of a nation, it’s often said that the strength of its youth is the most important factor. Can you elaborate on the role of ideological and political education in shaping the youth of today?
Interviewee: Absolutely. Ideological and political education is crucial in nurturing virtue and character, acting as the primary means of instilling idealism and wisdom in the youth of this new era. It’s essential that we effectively leverage this “big ideological and political education” to continuously innovate our practices. Our goal is to strengthen youth education around their ideals and beliefs, guiding them to become the new generation ready to take on the responsibilities of national rejuvenation.
Interviewer: That’s an important perspective. How can we invigorate ideological and political education to resonate more with today’s youth?
Interviewee: It’s vital that we blend tradition with innovation. Today’s youth are naturally curious and think in diverse ways. To truly engage them, our ideological and political education must evolve with the times. This means regularly updating course content and innovating teaching methods to create a more dynamic classroom atmosphere. For instance, we can utilize modern technology by incorporating archival images, micro-videos, and interactive media into our lessons. This “dual attraction” of visual and auditory elements can spark students’ interest in learning. Additionally, by adopting interactive and research-focused teaching models, we encourage students to participate in discussions, transforming education from a one-way transfer of knowledge into a collaborative exchange of ideas. This shift enables ideological and political education to serve as a significant source of spiritual nourishment for our youth.
Interviewer: I see. What specific resources do you think can enrich this educational approach?
Interviewee: One rich resource is our red history. History is a powerful teacher, and red resources—testimonies of our Party’s challenging yet glorious past—are invaluable in ideological and political education. From revolutionary memorials to martyrs’ cemeteries and historical artifacts, these resources provide vivid opportunities to instill ideals and beliefs. By harnessing the educational value of red resources, we can effectively integrate the Party’s history into our curriculum, bringing revolutionary artifacts to life and ensuring that red stories are shared and honored. When young people stand before these memorials, engaging with artifacts and photographs, they naturally develop feelings of patriotism and admiration for our heroes. This emotional connection inspires them as they forge their paths forward.
Interviewer: That’s compelling. How do you see the application of this education in real-world contexts?
Interviewee: Real-world application is crucial for making ideological and political education truly impactful. Our ultimate goal is to help students translate their knowledge into action, contributing to national and social development. This education must connect closely with practical experiences that allow students to strengthen their will and hone their abilities in society. More universities are emphasizing practical teaching in this context, encouraging students to engage in activities like rural revitalization, volunteer service, and social research. Through these experiences, students acquire knowledge beyond the confines of textbooks and gain a deeper understanding of societal needs and people’s expectations. This reflection prompts them to consider how to use their skills for the greater good, all while realizing their personal value. In this way, ideological and political education embodies the unity of knowledge and action, fostering youth growth through genuine practice.
Interviewer: It’s clear that youth are fundamental to our nation’s future. What do you believe are the most effective avenues for developing their potential?
Interviewee: Youth truly represent the future of our nation and the hopes of our people. To cultivate a strong spiritual backbone for this new generation, we must effectively utilize “big ideological and political education,” continually innovate teaching formats, deeply explore red resources, and closely integrate social practice. Together, we can work towards creating a vibrant, meaningful, and practical learning environment that empowers youth to solidify their beliefs and face the future with courage, contributing their youthful energy to the comprehensive modernization of our socialist country.
