Students at a primary school in Zaozhuang, East China's Shandong Province, start the new semester while receiving their new textbooks on September 1, 2024. Photo: VCG

From the stunning portrayal of Chinese modernization to the inspiring tales of self-improvement and perseverance demonstrated in the nation's technological advancements, from the unwavering sportsmanship and profound patriotism exhibited by Olympic athletes to the unique emphasis on the rule of law in education, Chinese primary and high school students embraced the start of their new school year by attending exceptional "first lessons," setting out on a path to becoming a resilient, patriotic and self-assured generation.

At the opening ceremony of the new semester at Beijing No.4 High School on Sunday, Ying Yong, procurator-general of the Supreme People's Procuratorate, delivered the first rule of law class to the students. He explained the importance of respecting and abiding by the law.

Ying delivered the "first lesson" as the school's vice principal for rule of law, whose responsibility includes not only carrying out legal education for minors, but also assisting schools in establishing a comprehensive mechanism for preventing sexual abuse, sexual harassment, campus bullying, and integrating judicial protection into school protection.

Officially taking effect in 2022, the policy of vice principals for rule of law in primary and secondary schools plays an important role in promoting the thorough implementation of education laws and juvenile delinquency prevention laws. It is of great significance for effectively protecting the legitimate rights and interests of young people and promoting their healthy growth, analysts said.

The problem of school bullying nowadays is partially attributed to a lack of sufficient education on the rule of law. Therefore, emphasizing such education is conducive to strengthening the protection of minors, Xiong Bingqi, director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, told the Global Times on Monday.

In addition, the "first lesson" of the new school year broadcast by China Central Television on Sunday evening also offered students a great chance to appreciate a "lovely China" by inviting guests such as historians, wildlife rescuers, Olympic athletes, military transport aircraft captains, and AI and aerospace technology experts to share their stories of unremitting self-improvement. 

A wide range of images such as the oracle bone pits in the Yin Ruins, the cross-sea bridge spanning the Lingding Channel, and the landing of the Chang'e-6 probe on the far side of the moon also allowed students to witness the stunning landscapes of China and experience the rapid progress it has made over the years.

The series of inspirational, motivational lessons inspired students' interest in scientific exploration and promoted their spirit of patriotism, innovation, and hard work.