Apple has made another significant donation to support teacher training and education in rural China. The funds will help expand the “Zhihui Gardener” program, a project run by the China Development Research Foundation (CDRF) that equips teachers with digital tools and training.
Originally launched in 2022 with a donation of 50 million yuan (about $6.9 million), the project has already benefited thousands of students and teachers in underdeveloped regions. Apple has now increased its total contribution to 350 million yuan ($48.3 million) since 2020.
A Focus on Long-Term Educational Growth
Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the importance of the company’s role in advancing education. “We firmly believe that education is a powerful force to create opportunities,” Cook said in a statement on Apple’s Chinese website. He added that Apple is committed to supporting teachers and students in building skills for the modern world.
The new funding will help the Zhihui Gardener project expand to 30 counties across the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Guizhou Province. It aims to reach 120,000 teachers over the next two years.
Tech and Education Go Hand in Hand
Fang Jin, Secretary-General of the CDRF, expressed gratitude for Apple’s support. “Digital technology is playing a role in revolutionizing education,” Jin said. “It has brought real change to teaching and learning in classrooms.”
The donation is part of Apple’s broader effort to promote sustainability, education, and innovation in China. Cook previously spoke at a CDRF climate conference in 2024, emphasizing the role of AI in Apple’s recycling systems.
Looking Ahead
While Apple didn’t reveal the exact amount of this latest donation, the company continues to show commitment to its partnerships in China. At the same time, Chinese leaders, including Vice Premier He Lifeng, have welcomed Apple’s efforts and encouraged further investment.
With this latest move, Apple strengthens its social impact and continues building long-term relationships that benefit both its business and the communities it serves.
