Hang Kan (R) on a visit to the Yungang Grottoes to familiarize himself with the needs and preferences of tourists in Datong city, Shanxi province, Feb. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

As the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) prepares for its annual session, Hang Kan, a NPC deputy and head of the Yungang Grottoes Research Institute, is fine-tuning his suggestion on strengthening support for the renowned cave cluster.

The Yungang Grottoes, located in Datong city, the second largest city in north China's Shanxi province, boast a rich history spanning over 1,500 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a cultural and artistic treasure trove where diverse cultural influences, including foreign and ethnic minority cultures, converge.

In his suggestion for the upcoming NPC session opening on March 5 in Beijing, Hang emphasizes the need for increased support in terms of talent and academic resources dedicated to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Hang views cultural heritage as an irreplaceable and invaluable resource, underscoring the critical importance of effective preservation. He highlights preventive conservation as the current focus for the Yungang Grottoes, requiring greater investments in technological advancements.

Hang directs his efforts towards the development of cultural heritage courses and the cultivation of talent. He argues that the effective preservation and utilization of cultural heritage requires a comprehensive approach encompassing not only archaeology but also interdisciplinary knowledge and research in areas such as ancient architecture and the arts. Universities, according to him, have a pivotal role to play in developing and offering courses related to cultural heritage.

Since his election as a 14th NPC deputy in 2023, Hang has actively championed the development of Yungang studies and talent cultivation over the past year. He believes that understanding the historical significance of cultural exchanges reflected in the Yungang Grottoes can foster a stronger sense of community for the Chinese nation.

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