Developing the nation, developing rights

The central government has appropriated special funds for the project of improving the quality of undergraduate teaching and reform at institutions of higher learning. The 211 Program (This is a program of the Chinese government to give priority to the building of 100 key institutions of higher learning and a batch of key branches of learning in the 21st century.) and the 985 Program (Launched by the Ministry of Education in May 1998, the program aimed at building a number of world-class universities and some universities with advanced international level that are well-known in the world.) will continue to quicken the construction of high-level universities.

After-school education will be expanded. In 2009 and 2010, the central government will pool 3 billion yuan of lottery earnings to support the building and operation of after-school facilities, and by 2010 every county (district) across the country will have one venue for after-school activities to guarantee the right of minors to after-school education.

The system of assistance to poor students will be improved by increasing budget inputs, implementing all policies concerning financial aid to such students, expanding the assistance coverage and raising the level of assistance.