President Xi Jinping Encourages Young Guides Ahead of International Children’s Day

In a message marking the approach of International Children’s Day, Chinese President Xi Jinping has written to the young “Red Scarf” guides at the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Nanhu Revolutionary Memorial Hall. The correspondence, issued on May 30, 2026, emphasizes the importance of historical education and the role of the younger generation in the nation’s future.

Commitment to Historical Education

In his letter, President Xi acknowledged the efforts of the young guides who serve at the historic sites of the CPC’s founding in Shanghai and the South Lake in Jiaxing. He expressed his appreciation for their work in sharing the history of the Party, revolutionary stories and the deeds of heroes. According to the official correspondence, these activities have helped the children cultivate a deep affection for the Party, the country, and socialism, while providing them with opportunities for personal growth and development.

As 2026 marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, the President highlighted the necessity of ensuring that the Party’s cause is carried forward by successive generations. He encouraged the young guides to:

• Continue to follow the guidance of the Party.
• Inherit the “red gene” of revolutionary tradition.
• Expand their knowledge and develop their capabilities.
• Strengthen their character and willpower to become reliable successors.

A Message for the Nation’s Youth

The timing of the letter, released by state media on May 31, 2026, serves as a precursor to the June 1 International Children’s Day. In addition to his specific guidance for the young volunteers at the memorial sites, President Xi extended his holiday greetings to children across the country.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on Legacy: The letter underscores the importance of historical literacy among Chinese youth, particularly in the context of the CPC’s 105th anniversary.
• Active Participation: By serving as guides at major historical sites, these young students are encouraged to move beyond traditional classroom learning to engage directly with the country’s revolutionary heritage.
• National Outlook: The message serves as a broader call to action for the younger generation to prepare for their future roles in China’s ongoing development.

The initiative reflects a consistent focus on patriotic education in China, where memorial sites are frequently used as centers for extracurricular learning. By engaging children as active participants in the preservation and narration of history, officials aim to ensure that the narratives of the country’s past remain a central component of the identity of future generations.

Sources: Xinhua News Agency