Pupils and parents decorate manhole covers in Zhengzhou

Students from a primary school in Zhengzhou, capital of central China’s Henan Province, recently teamed up with their parents to paint manhole covers and ELV cabinets in Gelin community with adorable cartoon characters, making the area more colorful and winning the admiration of passers-by.

A number of well-known cartoon characters including the Minions, Hello Kitty and characters from SpongeBob SquarePants were all painted on the manhole covers, outdoor ELV cabinets and other outdoor equipment. The artists? Students of Liuyi Primary School in Zhengzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone and their parents.

“These paintings were the results of the teamwork between students and their parents,” said Xiao Qi, an after-school activities counselor at Liuyi primary school, explaining that each of the manhole covers was claimed by an individual student-parent team, who then painted their own unique design.

The students often go and check if their cover is still in good condition or if it needs any repairs, said Xiao, adding that this activity has helped develop the students’ sense of responsibility and community.

“My dad is usually busy with work and doesn’t have much time to spend with me. I am delighted that we can take part in this activity together,” said Yang Wanqing, a student at Liuyi primary school.

Yang told People’s Daily that the experience of decorating the road with her schoolmates has also given her a sense of honor. She added that she will take good care of the manhole cover she and her dad painted together.

Zhengzhou implemented the “road chief” scheme in August 2018, with the aim of combating pollution and improving the environment, according to Zhu Yuxia, secretary of the Party branch at Gelin Committee.

Zhu, a third level road chief, came up with the idea of inviting students and parents to join hands in creatively decorating the community, with the intention of encouraging participation of those in the community to create a comfortable living environment. (Photo/People's Daily Online)