A new educational initiative, the Jiangcun Academy, is under development in Kaixiangong Village, Wujiang District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province. The project, which began construction in February 2024, aims to honour the legacy of renowned Chinese sociologist Fei Xiaotong by promoting his scholarly contributions and supporting rural revitalisation efforts.
Fei Xiaotong, a pivotal figure in Chinese sociology, conducted extensive research in Kaixiangong Village, also known as “Jiangcun,” between 1936 and 2002. His influential works, including “Peasant Life in China” and “From the Soil: The Foundations of Chinese Society,” were inspired by his visits to this village, making it a crucial site for the study of rural China.
The Jiangcun Academy is designed to be a leading educational and research institution, reflecting Fei’s spirit of exploration and addressing contemporary rural development needs. Covering an area of approximately 35.5 mu (2.67 hectares), the academy will feature teaching buildings and supporting facilities. The main teaching building will be equipped to accommodate 300 students for educational and research purposes. Completion is anticipated by June 2025.
The academy will house five key components: the Chinese Modernisation Jiangcun Research Base, the International Social Science Research Centre, the Economic and Social Survey and Experimental Centre, the Rural Revitalisation Training and Demonstration Centre, and the Cultural Heritage and Innovation Centre. These facilities will focus on urban-rural integration, rural revitalisation, social governance, and cultural heritage.
Jiangcun Academy is set to become a significant hub for social science research and education, aiming to produce impactful theoretical insights and practical solutions. The project has attracted considerable attention from both the academic community and the public, reflecting its importance in advancing the study of rural China and contributing to national development goals.
By integrating Fei Xiaotong’s legacy with modern research and educational practices, the Jiangcun Academy seeks to create a lasting influence on both scholarly work and rural development strategies.