Experience at the grassroots level has always been highly valued in Huaxia's officialdom since ancient times. In ancient imperial examinations, the top graduate generally focused on scholarship. Those that passed were usually posted to the provinces, starting from the position of county magistrate and working their way up to the imperial court.
The current situation has changed from previous years. For someone with a background like Nie Zhenbang, the previous smooth path might seem appealing, but it lacks luster on a resume. Especially since the current top leader has followed the grassroots route. As a result, the importance of grassroots-level positions across the country has been increasingly recognized. If one can make tangible achievements at the grassroots level, it is seen as even better.