On the evening of 8 March 2024, in Building 11 of Ningbo Open University, just after six o'clock, many students were already seated in the classroom, eagerly awaiting the start of class.

"I've been looking forward to this for days," said Ms. Chen, who had just sat down excitedly. "I was so lucky to have seized such a fantastic learning opportunity."

The first day of Ningbo Citizens' Night School was an outstanding success, surpassing Ms. Chen's expectations. The seven courses offered were met with unanimous approval and high praise from the students, each bringing its unique flair. "New Parents" explores the journey of becoming first-time parents from a scientific perspective, while "Family Education" delves into methods and experiences to stimulate children's learning motivation. The "Short Video Production" course offers a practical class for video enthusiasts to address their production queries and create videos on the spot. The "Employment Law" class provides essential legal knowledge for both new and experienced employees. "Classical Dance" stands out as the most refined course, inviting participants to elegantly dance along to the music. The "Flower Handicraft" class brightens lives with lessons on aesthetically arranging flowers, offering enjoyment that lasts throughout the evening. The "Parent-Child Magic" course, immensely popular among children, is held in a large classroom, where nearly 100 parents and children experience a magical and unforgettable evening.......

The class was scheduled to end at 8:00 P.M., but it wasn't until 8:20 P.M. that Ms. Chen left the classroom, albeit reluctantly. "I didn't come here in vain this time. Here, I can learn an interesting course in such a great environment, with excellent teachers and outstanding service. The most unexpected thing is that it happens to be the 8th of March, Women's Day, and I received a flower gift. I'm thrilled to have it and am very satisfied with the class."

The gesture of gifting flowers was just one aspect of the opening activities at Ningbo Citizens' Night School, aimed at making women attending the first session feel the warmth and care of Ningbo Open University. Close to 200 flowers were distributed to the female students, adding a personal touch to their welcome. In addition, the school arranged for affordable fast-food options for students coming straight from work. To ensure everyone was informed about the class commencement, the school sent out text message reminders. A wishing message board and several signboards directing students to their classes were also set up, further emphasising the school’s dedication to providing a warm and thoughtful service.

The recently inaugurated Ningbo Citizens’ Night School has provided the public with an exceptional experience. It was collaboratively launched by Ningbo Open University and the Jiangbei District Human Resources and Social Security Bureau of Ningbo. From 8 to 24 March, the Ningbo Citizens’ Night School will conduct class experience activities, offering courses that encompass skill development, hobbies and interests, life, and aesthetics, among other areas. The initial batch of 18 experience courses has been scheduled to accommodate 737 students. Those interested in participating can apply for the classes. Within just half a day, all the course spots were filled, demonstrating the programme's immense popularity. The enthusiasm for learning at the night school is not limited to offline classes; it has also garnered significant online attention. Several local media outlets, including Ningbo TV, have focused on the Ningbo Citizens’ Night School, from providing a general introduction to offering in-depth analyses of the school's opening, sparking widespread interest and heated discussions. In less than a week, the topic received millions of clicks. This level of engagement has greatly boosted confidence in the development of the Ningbo Citizens’ Night School. Looking ahead, the school plans to further expand social training, develop community education, support family learning, and establish a new brand of lifelong education, making it a popular choice for many Ningbo residents, both new and long-standing, who are passionate about learning.

By Ningbo Open University