China Mandates Science Education Upgrades in Schools for Innovation Drive

The Ministry of Education has forced primary and secondary schools to upgrade their science education in line with the country's pursuit of scientific and technological innovation and new economic growth. This happens in line with the newly released first national action plan that will make China a "strong education nation" by 2035, hence realigning educational development toward enhancing the efficiency of innovation and competitive advantage of the nation at large.

Per Xinhua, the new standards will push schools to take on the challenging science curriculum, enhancing the techniques of teaching as well as the maximal utilization of science resources. All primary schools must have at least one science teacher with a master's degree in science, technology, engineering, and math. There is also a requirement for schools to appoint a vice-principal for science who would oversee science lectures as well as course development.

The ministry also promotes science in extracurricular activities to attract the interest of students and create avenues that lead them to study science at the university level. In June, President Xi Jinping noted that China is committed to creating a competitive, open environment for scientific innovation and promoting international cooperation. China wants to diversify its economy with investments in new emerging industries like electric vehicles, quantum technology, and life sciences that can offset reliance on a slowing property sector.