Episode 3 recap: Construction Begins on the Girls' High School in Huaping County

In Episode 3, during her flight back home, Zhang Guimei unexpectedly encounters a special passenger. Not only does he offer to change seats with her, but he also enthusiastically expresses his admiration for her commitment to educational equity and justice. This passenger turns out to be Liu Qingyong, the Deputy Secretary of the Yunnan Provincial Committee. He praises Zhang Guimei for founding a fully free girls' high school and promises his full support—both in terms of funding and manpower—to ensure the school's successful construction.

Initially surprised by his identity and determination, Zhang Guimei soon feels a warm and steadfast support. However, when it comes to putting this beautiful vision into practice, she faces unexpected obstacles. Despite clear backing from higher authorities, the shifting of responsibilities among mid-level officials makes progress difficult.

Financial strains and the negative attitudes of the planning and human resources departments add to Zhang Guimei's stress. Faced with these challenges, she struggles in silence but never gives up. After a particularly grim meeting, she decides to take a breath of fresh air and rides her e-bike to the mountain top. It is during this chance outing that she discovers an abandoned plot of land near Nanzhong—a perfect location for the girls' school.

Investigations by reporters confirm that while this land has been idle for years, it is designated for educational use, making it ideally suited for her needs. To secure this land, Zhang Guimei cleverly orchestrates a strategy and puts on a "good show" with her team. She directly and sincerely expresses her desire to build the school to the relevant officials. Although Vice County Head Ma Yongqiang initially hesitates and expresses concerns, a heartfelt and persuasive dinner, especially after seeing the daughter of the restaurant owner drop out of school due to poverty, deeply moves him. He ultimately decides to support her initiative.

Despite later having second thoughts about his impulsive decision, Ma Yongqiang feels bound by his commitment and responsibility and pushes the project forward. The acquisition of construction permits quickly transforms the vacant lot into a bustling construction site. Zhang Guimei visits the site, rallying local residents to help supervise and ensure quality, while also reassuring workers who are anxious about payment issues.

A minor incident occurs on-site when Gu Yu, upset by the workers' misunderstandings and mockery of Zhang Guimei, clashes with foreman Master Cai, resulting in injuries on both sides. However, this incident unexpectedly leads to a deeper conversation between Master Cai and Zhang Guimei. Upon learning that Zhang Guimei genuinely wants to establish a free girls' high school and is willing to help children like his daughter, Cai Guizhi, who have dropped out due to poverty, he is filled with gratitude and hope.

However, Cai Guizhi initially refuses the chance to continue her education due to family issues. As time passes, five months later, Zhang Guimei and Zhou Shanqiu engage in a heated discussion about recruiting teachers. She insists that even under harsh conditions, they must ensure teaching quality and adequate staffing. Meanwhile, Cai Guizhi's story leaves a profound impact on Zhang Guimei, reinforcing her belief that education can change destinies and illuminate paths of hope.

This journey not only highlights the challenges Zhang Guimei faces in establishing the girls' high school but also vividly illustrates her commitment to educational equity and justice, as well as her relentless pursuit of dreams and hope. Through her efforts, a fully free girls' high school, embodying the dreams and futures of countless girls, is gradually becoming a reality.