On a humid afternoon in Nanshan District yesterday, about 40 policemen from the district's public security bureau were taking a computer class. The officers listened attentively as the instructor imparted basic computer skills.

According to Jin Qingyu, Party chief of the bureau, this was just one of the 10 training programs organized by the bureau to improve and enrich the lives of policemen. "We encourage police officers to teach themselves by attending different courses, to improve the quality of police force," Jin said.

Early this year, the bureau set up 17 clubs for police officers catering to their hobbies, including playing musical instruments, hiking, swimming, fishing, painting and photography. Some officers with artistic gifts have emerged from the clubs. For example, Wu Chao, a young officer, has now become a celebrity in the bureau after being invited by CCTV to sing a song written by him.

The bureau also started police forums at the end of last year, and so far has organized eight forums.

Jin noted these activities had been helpful in creating a harmonious atmosphere and strengthening communication within the police force. "We believe our efforts will present the best of Shenzhen police and let the public know policemen are educated," Jin said.

(Shenzhen Daily April 11, 2006)