Chapter 832 - 828: Good Teacher

As the leader’s voice faded, someone in the crowd immediately spoke up.

"The leader is absolutely right. My kid used to score in the thirties all day long. I worried so much about his studies that my hair almost turned gray. But ever since Teacher Gu took over, my naughty child has passed every single test.

"He even scored over eighty on this last exam! I’m thrilled to death. If anyone dares to say Teacher Gu used backdoor connections, I’ll be the first to testify for her."

Parents like this were not in the minority. The couple was simply born to be teachers. Not to mention Gu Jiaojiao, even Leng Yuan was an incredible educator—he was renowned throughout the entire city.

No one knew who had blindly written that anonymous report, spouting nonsense to slander Gu Jiaojiao. Many others quickly chimed in, offering their own testimonies to support her. Seeing this, the higher-up leaders were very satisfied.

The commune leader said a few more polite words before handing the floor over to the county leader.

The county leader’s tone was even more composed.

"Regarding Gu Zhiqing’s situation, the commune has already clarified things. Next, I will explain why she hasn’t returned for the past few days.

"In truth, the commune investigated and cleared up the matter on the very first day. However, the water pump Gu Zhiqing previously created was simply too remarkable. As a result, the county invited her to guide our water pump research for a few days.

"Considering this incident has brought a negative impact on Gu Zhiqing, I am here representing the county leaders to explain everything to you all. I hope everyone will stop spreading rumors and parroting false statements.

"Gu Zhiqing, Teacher Gu, is exceptionally talented in both academics and practical skills. The water pump she developed has greatly reduced our physical labor. We, the working class, are the biggest beneficiaries. In order to thank Teacher Gu for her contributions...

"The higher-ups have decided to award Teacher Gu a bonus of five hundred yuan, along with a personal certificate of honor.

"I will now present these to Teacher Gu."

Chen Beiguo was equally excited as he listened. Gu Jiaojiao receiving such an honor reflected well on their Qingshan Team; they all shared in the glory.

"Let’s have a round of applause!"

Chen Beiguo took the lead in clapping. In an instant, thunderous applause echoed through the crowd.

Gu Jiaojiao rose from her seat and calmly walked up to the leaders, accepting the five hundred yuan and the certificate. The leader signaled for her to say a few words. Holding her bonus and award, Gu Jiaojiao spoke with a relaxed tone.

"This isn’t my first time receiving a bonus and a certificate, but I am still incredibly happy. This technology can help more people and ease their physical burden.

"To be honest, I think farmers have it incredibly hard. No matter how strong the wind blows or how scorching the sun gets, your busy figures can always be seen out in the fields. I’ve seen many of you with shoulders rubbed raw and bleeding from carrying shoulder poles to irrigate the crops. Your calluses are thick and hard, and hands that have farmed year-round are as rough as tree bark.

"In a single village, across thousands of acres of land, seeds must be sown one by one, holes dug one by one, water carried bucket by bucket, weeds pulled root by root, and wheat harvested stalk by stalk.

"Today, using the knowledge I’ve acquired, I am deeply honored to be able to lighten some of that labor for you.

"My honor doesn’t stem from the fact that I built a water pump, but from the fact that I can help the thousands of hardworking and great people like you in this world. It is because of your diligent labor that so many people can be fed.

"I can even say without hesitation: without agriculture, there would be no industry. Why can city folks go to work with peace of mind? Because we secure their food supply. Without food, are they supposed to go to work on an empty stomach? Therefore, you are the truly great ones."