(Photo/People's Daily Online)
A private school in Xinxiang, Henan province has been thrown into the spotlight after investing more than 1 million RMB in an on-campus zoo. The zoo, which is home to more than 30 animals including deer, alpacas and peacocks, is designed to create a better study environment for the school's students, according to a report by Beijing Youth Daily.
"Our boarding school is far away from the city. By building the zoo, students from rural areas have a chance to gain firsthand knowledge about animals. The zoo may also keep them happier while they're far away from their parents," a teacher surnamed Han told Beijing Youth Daily.
According to the report, the school has not yet obtained permission from the government to open the zoo.
"We have already contacted local veterinarians, so they can help us if the animals get sick. We will also apply for permission from the local government as soon as possible," said Han.
