by Xinhua Writers Li Xin and He Bing
LA PAZ, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) -- In the clear morning light, a group of children practice foundational movements of Chinese martial arts in the school courtyard. They attend the Comunidad Educativa Chino Boliviana Sariri in La Paz, Bolivia -- a school that has made cultural integration its hallmark, blending the philosophy of the Andes with the wisdom of China.
Founded in 2016, the school has a clear mission: to recover, revitalize and honor indigenous cultures -- particularly Aymara -- while promoting Chinese cultural learning as a bridge to broader global understanding.
"We believe it is very important for Bolivia to recover its culture as a country, because culture is where values are found," said school director Cecilia Pinedo in an interview with Xinhua. To her, the school is "a seed of identity" for future generations.
Speaking about this process of cultural recovery, Pinedo highlights the inspirations the school draws from China.
"For us, China is an example to follow, because China has been very strong in preserving its history, its language and its culture. We believe China is great today because it has never lost its cultural roots," she said.
For English teacher Vanessa Bonilla, the strength of the school lies in the convergence of two ancient civilizations grounded in enduring values.
"That is what motivates me to stay -- to continue learning and, at the same time, pass on to students the values, customs and ancestral traditions of both cultures," she said.
Many parents are also drawn to the school's teaching of Chinese martial arts, which is "not only a physical activity, but one that conveys philosophy and values," Bonilla added.
At Sariri, martial arts, Chinese and Aymara languages, and traditional Bolivian music are core parts of the curriculum, making the school a pioneer in Bolivia.
Students say this education has shaped them deeply.
Thirteen-year-old Oscar Huanacuni, who has practiced martial arts for years, said the most important lesson he has learned is: "Never give up. Even when your whole body hurts, you must keep going."
Sixth-grade student Luciana Ceballos, who had traveled to China to participate in international martial arts competitions, recalled the beauty of the country and the warmth of its people.
"We would love to return," she said.
After nine years of development, Sariri now has more than 100 students and has expanded into secondary education.
Looking ahead, Pinedo and Bonilla expressed their desire to further strengthen cultural and academic exchanges between China and Bolivia. They hope more Bolivian students can study in China, and more Chinese students can come to learn about Andean culture.
"We want our young people to walk -- just as the word Sariri means 'one who carries messages while walking' -- with the strength of their roots and the openness from the Andes toward the world," Pinedo said.
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