Xiushui County Welcomes New Aoyi Primary School Funded by Sands China

Published on September 11, 2024

Sands China senior executives, accompanied by 20 Sands Cares Ambassadors, visited Xiushui County in Jiangxi Province on Tuesday for the handover ceremony of Aoyi Primary School. This new school, funded by Sands China Ltd. and China Civil Engineering Construction Company (Macau) Ltd. (CCECC), marks a significant milestone for the local community. Representatives from the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in Macao, Sands China team members, CCECC, and key Macao government agencies were present for the school’s official unveiling.

“As a company deeply rooted in Macao, Sands China has consistently upheld corporate social responsibility. We immerse ourselves in the Macao community, standing united with all sectors of society,” said Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd. “The Aoyi Primary School construction project represents our proactive response to the national rural revitalisation strategy and serves as a crucial step in aiding the Macao SAR government’s efforts in rural revitalisation in Jiangxi’s Xiushui County. We are thrilled to take part in this project, and to partner with CCECC to enhance the educational infrastructure in Xiushui County. We firmly believe that by improving the foundational educational resources there, we can not only create a more conducive learning environment for local children but also establish a robust groundwork for the county’s long-term economic and social development, which holds profound significance. We hope that the connection between the two places will endure, and through this project, we can extend the caring spirit of the Sands Cares Ambassadors, demonstrating a sense of patriotism and love for Macao.”

Yang Song, assistant general manager of CCECC and managing director of CCECC Hong Kong and Macau Branch, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Sands China in successfully completing the construction of Aoyi Primary School, aiming to revitalise rural education for the advancement of the countryside and to contribute to the flourishing development of education in Xiushui County. I hope that Aoyi Primary School will continue to excel, further nurturing the profound bond between Macao and Xiushui, and playing a role in fostering more outstanding individuals for our nation!”

The previous school, located at the base of a hill, suffered from limited space and inadequate facilities, posing safety concerns, especially during storms. The new Aoyi Primary School, now located in Huanggang town, spans 3,900 square metres with a construction area of 1,700 square metres, offering much-needed educational opportunities for children in nearby villages. After the ceremony, Sands Cares Ambassadors toured the school, distributed stationery and sports equipment, and engaged with the students, fostering a sense of community between Macao and Xiushui.

In addition, the Ambassadors visited a nearby village to deliver essential items like rice, noodles, and quilts to local families, sharing conversations with villagers who expressed their appreciation. The delegation also explored the Qiushou Uprising Xiushui Memorial Hall, deepening their connection to the nation’s history. Celebrating its 15th year, the Sands Cares Ambassador programme now boasts over 3,300 volunteers from all Sands China properties, continuing its legacy of community service.