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Chinese Schoolgirls' Dedication to Homework Sparks Sympathy and Debate on Social Media

Chinese Schoolgirls Hurrying to Finish Homework Draw Sympathy from Weibo Netizens

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20 February 2024

A recent video circulating on Chinese social media has sparked a wave of sympathy and reactions from Weibo users, as it features a group of young schoolgirls diligently working on their homework during the winter break. The video caught the attention of Weibo netizens, who have expressed mixed feelings about the girls' dedication and the societal pressures they face.

The viral video captures the schoolgirls gathered in a room, with some focused on their textbooks while others scribble furiously on notebooks. One girl in the video appears to be hiding her face, possibly out of reluctance to be filmed while working on her homework. In the background, a Weibo user can be heard saying, "The whole world knows that my little sister is working on her homework."

Weibo users have responded to the video with a mix of admiration, concern, and criticism. Some netizens commended the girls for their dedication and hard work, while others expressed sympathy for the pressure they are under to complete their assignments during the holiday break.

One Weibo user, C20F, wrote, "I really think this isn't a good situation... The little sister has been told not to post her pictures, but here we are. We should respect the wishes of every young girl. If the little sister doesn't want to be photographed or have her image shared on public platforms, then we shouldn't do it." Another user commented, "The whole world knows that my little sister is working on her homework. But, I feel it's not good. The little sister has already been told not to post pictures, and yet they still do. We should respect the wishes of every young girl."

In several instances, Weibo users have voiced their disapproval of the video's creator for filming and sharing the footage without the consent of the girls involved. "I find it so annoying that the little girl's wishes are not being respected. They were told not to share her picture, but yet they still did. It's so disrespectful," wrote one user.

Amid the discourse, several Weibo users have come forward to share their own experiences and offer support to the girls featured in the video. One user shared, "My little sister is also working on her homework. I don't know how she dares to trust a college student's intelligence level (by the way, Chrome is really useful)." Another user commented, "I have a little sister too, and she's also working on her homework. The years really do change people, don't they?"

Some Weibo users have called for adjustments to the educational system, expressing their hope that teachers would assign less homework during the holiday breaks. One user wrote, "Holiday homework is too much. Can we please not have so much assigned during the winter and summer breaks?" In response to these concerns, another user offered words of encouragement, saying, "Doing homework is a good thing. Keep it up!"

Despite the mixed reactions, the video has undoubtedly struck a chord with many Weibo users. As one user aptly put it, "It's the same old story - everyone's just like each other year after year."

In reviewing other similar news stories, it becomes apparent that there is a larger conversation surrounding the excessive workload and academic pressures faced by students in China. In recent years, there have been multiple instances of students suffering from anxiety, depression, and even suicide due to the immense pressure they face from school and family expectations. These incidents have led to discussions about the need for reform in the Chinese education system, with some calling for a greater focus on student well-being and mental health.

As the Weibo conversation around the viral homework video continues, it is clear that the topic of student workload and well-being remains a pertinent issue in China, sparking public sympathy and concern for the country's young learners.

In an age where students are increasingly expected to excel academically and compete on a global level, the viral video serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of striking a balance between academic rigor and the overall well-being of young students.

By highlighting the dedication and diligence of these young schoolgirls and the societal pressures they face, the video has sparked a much-needed conversation about the challenges and pressures faced by students in China, and the need for a more balanced and compassionate approach to education.

As the Weibo comments continue to flow in, one thing remains abundantly clear: while these girls may be working on their homework during their winter break, many Chinese netizens are working on their compassion, empathy, and advocacy for a better, more supportive educational system for the country's youth.

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