Supporting Spring Bud Girls: Educational Initiatives in Aerospace
Recent public-welfare activities in Jiangsu and Yunnan provinces have brought renewed hope and opportunities to underprivileged girls through the Spring Bud — Aerospace Dream Project. This initiative, initiated in 2022 by the China Children and Teenagers’ Fund (CCTF) in collaboration with the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation Ltd. (CASIC), focuses on enhancing educational resources, health awareness, and scientific literacy among the Spring Bud girls.
Event Highlights
One notable event took place in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, coinciding with a women scientists’ exchange program. Here, girls from disadvantaged backgrounds in Kunming, Yunnan, and Suzhou gained valuable insights from presentations by experts affiliated with CASIC and the Aerospace Women’s Science and Technology Innovation Laboratory. The interaction allowed participants to learn directly from seasoned professionals in the field of aerospace.
Supportive Mentorship
During this gathering, three scientists made a significant commitment by donating funds to support the educational journeys of the Spring Bud girls. They also embraced mentorship roles, becoming “caring mothers” to their paired students, ensuring continued guidance and assistance.
Interactive Learning in Qujing
The second activity unfolded at a middle school in Qujing, Yunnan, where CASIC volunteers provided science-popularization lectures. This engaging session included an aerospace-themed knowledge contest, encouraging the girls to apply their newfound knowledge in a fun and competitive setting.
Impact of the Initiative
Over the past three years, the Spring Bud — Aerospace Dream Project has established 36 growth centers across the regions, conducting more than 200 activities. These have focused on promoting science education as well as addressing health and psychological well-being, positively impacting approximately 100,000 girls and their families.