Understanding China from a “People First” perspective

[Afghanistan] Sharifi Mohammad Shahir, Central South University

Even if China may not be at the forefront of the world in terms of science and technology, there is one accomplishment that maybe no other nation can take pride in: the benefits that come from scientific and technological advancement are being shared with the populace. The 21st century’s defining characteristic is technology, which in Chinese society is closely linked to politics, the economy, culture, society, ecology and other facets, fundamentally altering peoples’ ways of life and serving as a living example of the saying “the fruits of development are shared by all the people.”

In the seven years between 2015 to 2022, I saw the Chinese people come together and overcome obstacles to eliminate absolute poverty in the country. We have experienced firsthand the profound transformations brought about by 5G technologies, moved through the 4G period, and benefited from the practicality of bike-sharing, Didi and other such apps. We have seen the historic transformation of the Chinese aircraft carrier from an “imported only” to a “homegrown trio,” and we are sincerely appreciative of the efforts made by the Chinese government and citizens from all walks of life to fight the pandemic and live a healthy life. What is the secret behind all of this? The “people first” development philosophy that we frequently hear about in China, in my opinion, is the cause.

My Chinese classmates told me that just more than 10 years ago, roads were bumpy and potholed in rural areas, cars were rare, there were no express delivery services, and online shopping was very underdeveloped; people lacked environmental awareness, garbage was dumped, sewage was discharged, trees were cut down, and farmland was used at will... However, when I came to Hunan and followed the school’s social practice group to a village in Anhua County, I saw something completely different.

There are wide roads, beautiful mountains and clear waters, and magnificent natural environment; the locals have a place to live in, medical care, education and everything revolves around human needs; everyone has a smartphone and can not only shop online and pay by scanning QR codes, but also sell agricultural products on e-commerce platforms. Their income has been increased and their quality of life has improved.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, I’ve witnessed all of China pressing the “pause button” to save lives, and I was stunned, exclaiming, “This is China, this can only be China!” Quickly organized and outfitted with the latest medical technology, the nation’s top medical forces headed to the epicenter of the pandemic. It was Chinese New Year when the pandemic first started in Wuhan, a time for gathering with family and friends. However, in order to fight the virus, everyone remained indoors, listened to orders, and followed rules. I was moved by the country’s concerted efforts and strong will to preserve people’s lives. China is the only nation that, since the outbreak, has consistently prioritized its citizens’ safety and health and made great efforts to treat every patient with the utmost care, which is an amazing achievement. This is evident when I compare the situation of epidemic prevention and control in other nations around the world.

In my mind, a stately and elegant image of China was formed before I came to China since I had read about its long history and rich culture, and used Chinese silk and porcelain. Then I read several articles that were critical of China, shattering my positive perception of the country, but they all piqued my interest in the country and inspired me to come here to study. Over the years, I have used my feet to survey the gorgeous and vast country, my eyes to see how modern China’s rural areas are reviving, my ears to hear the pulse of the Chinese dream, and my heart to feel how old and modern civilizations interact.

What I have seen and heard has helped me to see a real and three-dimensional China, a country that is constantly innovating, a country where “the people come first.”

Thanks to this ideal of “people first”, China as a whole is connected, responsive, and strong. It furthers my conviction that choosing to study in China is the best decision, and I’m grateful I can spend my formative years here.

The story is from "My Beautiful Encounter with China" Essay Competition organized by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchanges (CSCSE).