Biographical Film Showcases the Life of Nankai’s “School Father” Yan Xiu

A special screening event for the biographical film “Yan Xiu, a Teacher of a Generation” was held in Beijing on Teachers’ Day. The film tells the story of Yan Xiu, a renowned educator in the late Qing Dynasty, who played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s educational landscape.

The film’s creation spanned over a decade, with the production team meticulously examining historical materials to bring Yan Xiu’s story to life. The movie depicts Yan Xiu’s unwavering dedication to educational reform, which he believed was crucial in saving the nation from turmoil.

Director Hong Baosheng emphasized the timelessness of Yan Xiu’s ideas, stating, “As a great educator, Yan Xiu proposed ‘don’t aspire to be an official, but a patriot,’ and formulated a new educational policy of ‘advocating public spirit, martial arts and practicality.’ His ideas remain relevant even after more than 120 years.”

During the post-screening interaction, a Nankai alumnus expressed his deep admiration for Yan Xiu’s patriotism, saying, “Patriotism is Nankai’s tradition, and Nankai’s patriotic spirit originated from Mr. Yan Xiu. In the film, Mr. Yan Xiu’s selfless actions, such as protecting patriotic students arrested during the May Fourth Movement and establishing the ‘Fan Sun Scholarship’ to support Zhou Enlai’s study in France, demonstrate his unwavering commitment to China’s rejuvenation.”

The film is a testament to Yan Xiu’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on the country’s educational system. By exploring the modernity and practical significance of Yan Xiu’s ideas, the film offers a fresh perspective on the life and times of this remarkable educator.