Debate Erupts Over Two-Day Weekend Policy in Chinese High Schools

A parent of a high school student in Huili county, Panzhihua, Sichuan province, recently voiced concerns on a local e-government platform regarding a planned two-day weekend policy for regular senior high schools. This has ignited significant public discussion and debate.

Currently, students in these schools typically attend classes six days a week. The parent, whose child is in the second year of senior high school, a critical phase with a demanding academic schedule, expressed worries that the policy might negatively affect their child's prospects of gaining admission to a top university. The national college entrance exam, or gaokao, is a pivotal examination in a Chinese student's academic journey, determining university placement and future career paths.

The intense competition for limited spaces in prestigious universities necessitates rigorous preparation, often starting years in advance, with students dedicating a significant amount of time to studying. In response to the parent's concerns, the Panzhihua education and sports bureau stated that the Sichuan provincial education department had already issued measures in February, strictly prohibiting schools from organizing group tutoring or new courses on weekends, holidays, or during winter and summer vacations.

While Sichuan has not yet released official guidelines on extended weekend services for senior high schools, some areas have begun piloting the two-day weekend policy. The bureau suggested that all senior high schools in the city provide services based on the needs of students and parents. In October, the Ministry of Education and other central government departments issued implementation guidelines for the two-day weekend policy, aiming to reduce students' academic burdens and promote comprehensive development. These guidelines mandate that all regular senior high schools nationwide implement the policy starting in the autumn semester of this year.

Since the beginning of this year, many regions across China have gradually introduced the policy. The policy has elicited varied reactions from parents, leading to lively online discussions. Some parents welcome the change, citing the benefits of increased rest and personal time for students. Others express concerns that the policy could put their children at a disadvantage if others utilize weekends for additional classes.

Experts note that the two-day weekend policy aims to curb excessive academic competition and reduce students' burdens. Research indicates a high rate of depression among high school students. Excessive study time may not necessarily improve scores and could instead lead to exhaustion, reducing learning efficiency. The new policy is intended to allow students to engage in social activities, pursue hobbies, and participate in physical exercise, providing them with opportunities for holistic development.