North Korea has showcased scenes of new beginnings across the country as schools welcome the start of the new academic year.
The ruling party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Wednesday that numerous educational institutions nationwide have embraced the new academic year with fresh appearances. It noted that over 1,000 universities, schools, and branch schools across the country are starting the new term.
The newspaper proclaimed that disparities in education levels between central and local areas, as well as urban and rural settings, stem from differences in educational conditions and environments. It lauded the wise leadership of their respected General Secretary, stating that his efforts have revitalized rural schools, establishing new educational facilities in rural villages and remote areas. This has spread joy across the nation on the first day of school.
The newspaper also reported that students from kindergartens and island schools received ‘sunflower’ school supplies in anticipation of the new academic year.
On page 2, the newspaper published an appeal from the Central Committee of the Korean Trade Union Confederation, dated Monday. The appeal urged workers to fight more boldly to implement the party’s decisions and plans unconditionally and perfectly, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the nation’s self-defense capabilities.
The newspaper also announced on page two that the 9th Congress of the Korean Trade Union Confederation will convene in early May in Pyongyang. It reported that the 15th plenary meeting of the 8th Central Committee decided to hold this congress to amplify the momentum of the working class and union members in implementing party congress decisions under the banner of self-reliance.
On page 3, the newspaper highlighted that graduating high school students from Yanggang Province volunteered to serve at frontline border posts. It also discussed scenes from the TV drama The New Spring of Baekhakbeol, emphasizing the party’s intention that attitudes towards the masses, moral character, and work style must change before the thinking and abilities of cadres can evolve. The newspaper praised the drama’s educational value in exposing the roots of bureaucratism and corruption.
Page 4 announced the organization of a public forum themed, We Are Korean People. The newspaper explained that this forum, reflecting the demands of the times and the will of the people, is open to all citizens. Participants can submit essays, personal experiences, or reflections on their aspirations to live patriotic lives as Koreans in a powerful nation.
On page 5, the newspaper reported on a socialist competition summary meeting held on Tuesday at various greenhouse farms. Key party and government officials attended, including Party Secretary Joo Chang-il and Deputy Prime Minister Lee Cheol-man. Han Jong-hyuk, Chairman of the Central Committee of the Agricultural Workers’ League, delivered the report.
Page 6 featured an article titled, Japan’s Rearmament is a Step Towards a Second Defeat. It criticized Japan for abandoning its long-standing principle of defensive defense and transitioning its Self-Defense Forces into an offensive posture. The article argued that Japan’s push for rearmament and militarization could lead to another national downfall.
