NPC Deputy Qin He. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

During this year's annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC), Deputy Qin He, president of Jilin International Studies University, put forward a series of suggestions to address the challenges facing China's education system amid demographic changes and evolving social demands.

Qin noted that the rapid decline in the school-age population and large-scale regional migration are reshaping the education landscape. While the government has introduced policies to adjust school layouts and optimize teacher allocation, she argues that long-term strategic planning is still needed. She suggested that local governments develop region-specific education plans based on population trends and promote small classes to improve educational quality. Qin also emphasized the importance of maintaining rural schools as a foundation for rural vitalization and called for stronger coordination at the municipal level to better allocate educational resources across regions.

To strengthen the education workforce, Qin proposed raising teachers' salaries and reforming staffing management to allow more flexible allocation of teaching resources. She also recommended upgrading teacher training systems, strengthening practical teaching skills in certification processes, and encouraging exchanges between urban and rural teachers. Adapting teacher training to the digital era, including the use of artificial intelligence in education, was also emphasized.

In addition, Qin called for expanding the supply of diverse educational services to meet families' varied needs. She suggested encouraging social organizations to provide non-academic programs, such as arts and sports training, under clear regulatory frameworks, while ensuring proper supervision and protecting educational equity.