First lady Michelle Obama and daughters travel to China to promote education

First lady Michelle Obama, accompanied by daughters Malia and Sasha, departs Wednesday for a week-long trip to China, where she will promote education.

Commenting on the purpose of her visit, the White House said:

"During her trip to China, as on previous international trips to Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America, the First Lady will be focusing on the power and importance of education, both in her own life and in the lives of young people in both countries.

"She will also be visiting important historical and cultural sites in China, and will share with students in the U.S. the stories of the students she meets in China, as well as interesting facts about China’s history and culture — emphasizing the importance of students learning from one another globally."

Michelle Obama will land in Beijing on Thursday. She is scheduled to visit schools and historic landmarks. On Saturday, she will promote study abroad opportunities both for Americans and Chinese, and speak to an audience comprised of American students studying abroad at Peking University and Chinese students who studied abroad in the U.S. The first lady will also connect with students in the U.S. through a virtual discussion with American youth aimed at promoting the role of technology in education.

She will spend March 24 in Xi'an touring historic sites and then will travel to Chengdu for two days prior to her return.

In Chengdu, the first lady will first visit Chengdu No. 7 High School and deliver a message that promotes education in the U.S. and China. On her final day in China on March 26, she will tour the Chengdu Panda Base that houses 50 pandas.

Students and adults alike who are interested in following First Lady Michelle Obama's trip may sign up for updates and participate in live webinars by registering through the White House website HERE.

[White House]