Huimin builds cultural vitality through community academies

Students explore traditional Chinese medicine by learning to identify and understand various medicinal herbs. [Photo/Wang Jun]

''Mom, do you know who the Medicine King is? He came to teach us about Chinese herbs today!'' Six-year-old Miaomiao waved her picture book excitedly after a special event at the Cultural Academy of Chengguan community in Huimin county's Sunwu subdistrict during the May Day holiday. A volunteer, dressed as the legendary physician Sun Simiao, taught children about traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), making history and culture come alive.

In this ancient town rich in heritage and wisdom, Sunwu subdistrict is quietly transforming community life through the expansion of its grassroots cultural academy system. Since early this year, the subdistrict has used the ''community academy'' model to explore an integrated ''academy plus'' approach. By creating a talent database—the ''Sunwu Expert Archive''—local calligraphers, painters, folk artists, and opera enthusiasts are invited to volunteer and lead community activities tailored to residents' interests.

Through online surveys and door-to-door visits, the Dizhou Community Academy developed a dynamic resident profile with 18 cultural tags across six demographic groups. This has sparked the creation of interest-based communities like folk craft classes, TCM workshops, and reading clubs, bringing people of all ages into active participation.

As Zhao Hui, Party secretary of Dizhou, explained, community events are no longer decided at random but rooted in real needs. Retired teachers and local artisans have become the cultural lifeblood of the neighborhood, while a points-based rewards system encourages ongoing involvement.

These cultural academies are not only hubs for tradition and learning—they also serve as innovative platforms for social governance and community harmony. (Edtied by Li Qiaoxingzi)