"As a citizen of the People’s Republic of China and having reached 18 years of age, I solemnly swear an oath to become a citizen with lofty ideals, moral integrity, good education, and a strong sense of discipline…and to strive for the equality, democracy, and prosperity of all humanity”! This oath, led by Wang Dong, the graduate, was shared by some sixty-plus sponsored eighteen-year olds during their graduation ceremony.

More than sixty sponsored children, their parents, and community volunteer representatives from four townships of Chun Hua County participated in the ceremony. When looking back upon his decade of support, Han Juxin, one of the sponsored graduates, said “Only ‘thanks’ can express my gratitude to Plan and my sponsor. I hope that I may also become prosperous as soon as possible and, in turn, assist those who need help”.

Among the supported children, some began Plan sponsorship and established links with their foreign sponsors at the age of two; while some commenced communication with their sponsors during their primary and secondary schooling. During the period of support, a number of sponsors travelled great distances to the mountain villages to visit their sponsored children...often referring to them as “my children”. Other children, although they may never meet their own sponsors, have still forged strong friendships through the exchange of letters and photos. “The caring love my sponsor has shown makes me understand what great love is. It means never forgetting to help those who are less fortunate and ensuring we always care for our family and friends”. Han Juxin always felt deeply touched when communicating with his sponsor.

In order to express Plan’s best wishes to the children, the sponsorship team presented the graduates with commemorative albums and boots to encourage the pursuit of dreams, study, and happy integration into society. During the ceremony, the graduates asked Plan staff about our work and showed great interest and willingness in becoming future college volunteers and promoting Plan’s ideals and services.

Zhu Youhai, Manager of the Chun Hua Programme Unit of Plan China, Chairperson Luo, of the Chun Hua County Women's Federation, Yang Min, Sponsorship Manager of Plan China, the community volunteers, and parents all extended their best wishes to the children for a happy future. This warm sentiment was also given by the sponsorship team on behalf of all Plan staff.