Beijing: 12.9 million Chinese students participated in the national university entrance examination, known as the "Gaokao," which commenced nationwide today.
According to Thai News Agency, this marks the second consecutive year of decline in the number of applicants, with the Ministry of Education reporting figures that are nearly equivalent to the population of Belgium or Cuba. This decline, from the 13.35 million applicants projected for 2025, is attributed to a shrinking youth demographic and challenging job markets for graduates, as the youth unemployment rate remains over 16%.
Additionally, a growing number of Chinese youth are opting for vocational training programs that promise more stable employment opportunities, steering away from traditional academic paths. In response, universities have introduced new bachelor's degree programs to align with strategic national industries, such as Embodied Intelligence, Brain-Computer Interface Science, Rare Earth Engineering, and Low-Altitude Economy Management.
The Gaokao is also evolving, moving from its traditional focus on rote memorization to more reflective approaches that address modern societal changes, particularly in the essay sections. This year, essays emphasized technology's impact on society. In Beijing, students crafted slogans promoting AI-powered activities for the elderly, while in Shanghai, they explored how technology transforms human imagination and the world in an 800-word essay.
On the front of anti-cheating measures, the Ministry of Education has ramped up efforts to combat technological cheating. Examination halls are now equipped with intelligent screening systems to detect prohibited devices like smart glasses, miniature earphones, and smartwatches. Organizing or leading a Gaokao cheating scheme is considered a severe crime under Chinese criminal law, carrying a penalty of up to seven years in prison.