Education has played an important role in promoting China's rapid social and economic development over the past 40 years of reform and opening up. Compulsory education is especially important as it serves to build value systems, knowledge and skills. Primary and secondary education is critical for a country to improve the standard of living, further social and cultural progress and continue economic gains.

Today, a majority of children in China have access to nine years of compulsory education. However, education gaps between different regions still exist. This is also an issue between rural and urban areas and between different schools.

To bridge the education gap, the country has increased financial support for schools in poor regions and improved the financial aid system for students from impoverished families. The Internet has also played an important role in narrowing the educational gap between different regions. Teachers and students from less developed regions are able to access high-quality educational resources through live streaming platforms.

The country also hopes to cultivate a more versatile population through an education system focused on students' abilities. Many schools have carried out experiments in cooperation with local enterprises and universities to develop students' hobbies and encourage their creativity.

However, China is still far behind developed countries in basic education standards. Students are encouraged to devote time to achieving the grades required for university rather than exploring and nurturing other passions and interests.

(This is an edited excerpt of an article published in Oriental Outlook on October 25)