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Taxi driver receives 'most precious souvenir' from graduating students he ferries daily

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Context piece
  • A taxi driver in Taichung, Taiwan, received heartfelt thank-you cards from graduating elementary students he transported daily.
  • The driver, Huang Jinbiao, has been serving the rural Huangzhu Elementary School route since 2020, fostering a bond with the students.
  • The gesture is seen as a valuable memento, highlighting the importance of accessible transportation for rural education.

Huang Jinbiao, a taxi driver in Taichung, Taiwan, received a deeply touching gift: thank-you cards from graduating students of Huangzhu Elementary School. For years, Huang has been the daily driver for these children, navigating the roads of the Taiping mountain area regardless of the weather.

His dedication to the students of Huangzhu Elementary, a school known for its unique character and located in a mountainous region, has fostered a strong bond between him and his young passengers. The students, now graduating, expressed their gratitude for his safe and consistent service, writing messages like, "Thank you, driver brother, for taking us to and from school every day, safely delivering us to our destination. It's great to have you. You've worked hard! We are graduating!" This sincere appreciation brought tears to Huang's eyes, calling the cards his "most precious souvenir."

Thank you, driver brother, for taking us to and from school every day, safely delivering us to our destination. It's great to have you. You've worked hard! We are graduating! Thank you, Taichung City Government Transportation Bureau, for helping us take the bus smoothly and safely. We wish everyone safe travels and good health.

โ€” Graduating studentsThe students expressed their gratitude in handwritten cards to the driver.

Huang, who transitioned from regular taxi service to the "Little Yellow Car" public transport initiative, primarily serves students and rural residents. He views his passengers as friends, emphasizing safety above all else during their commutes. He often checks on students who are absent, inquiring about their well-being. While happy for their transition to junior high school, he also feels a sense of bittersweet parting.

The "Little Yellow Car" service, part of Taichung City's efforts to ensure transportation equity, has been operating for eight years. It covers 22 administrative districts and 172 villages, with 26 routes serving 68 primary and secondary schools. This service plays a crucial role in bridging transportation gaps for students in remote areas, ensuring they can attend school without disruption.

This is the most precious souvenir in my driving career.

โ€” Huang JinbiaoThe taxi driver described his emotional reaction to the students' thank-you cards.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.