Concrete help
It was once a run-down school hostel. The students and teachers had to stick old newspapers and plastic on the wooden walls to keep out rain and wind. Thanks to a group of students from the City University of Hong Kong (CityU), the school in Guangxi is now a three-storey concrete building with a comfortable interior.
It all began three years ago when Nicolas Yeung visited remote areas in the mainland province and saw the poor conditions of the primary school.
A veteran architect and founding director of the Construction Industry Institute - Hong Kong, Mr Yeung wanted to help the children by improving their study environment. On his return to Hong Kong, he approached the CityU's Department of Building and Construction.
Mr Yeung donated some money and invited the department's students to help reconstruct the school hostel. Under his guidance, more than 30 students started to design the structure and plan the budget.
The students also travelled to Guangxi five times to get first-hand information about the school's needs.
Last month, they were delighted to hear that the re-construction had been completed.
The new complex cost 380,000 yuan ($358,470). It consists of six dormitories, six living quarters for teachers and a multi-function hall. In the past, students had their meals standing up because there was no proper canteen.
Now, they can set tables in the hall and enjoy their lunch.
The school, which has about 130 students and teachers, caters for children from five rural villages.
Although there were no credits or certificates to show for their efforts, the CityU students said they learned a lot from the project.
'We were responsible for the whole project. We had to put our theoretical knowledge gained from textbooks into practical use. This widened our horizons. It was a valuable lesson and gave us a great sense of satisfaction,' said Samuel Lam Tin-kwan, 23.
His classmate, Tam Kwan-yee, added they were happy to meet the Guangxi residents. Ms Tam said the students were diligent and eager to learn.
She said: 'The facilities and environment are poor, but their desire to gain knowledge is very strong. They are satisfied and happy. In comparison, Hong Kong is rich and full of resources. We should learn to be grateful.'
The students hope to organise fund-raising activities to provide more facilities for the school.
They will visit the village during the summer holiday to work as voluntary tutors.
