In China, an important step has been taken to move the education system beyond focusing solely on exam performance and instead place students’ physical and mental health at the center of education. Under new guidelines issued by the Chinese Ministry of Education, the concept of “Healthy Schools” has begun to be implemented. The aim is to encourage children to spend more time in outdoor activities, arts, and practical skills.
The guideline document issued by the Ministry of Education is being described as a key policy for implementing an educational philosophy that prioritizes health. According to officials, although progress has been made in recent years, challenges still remain in areas such as students’ physical fitness, vision problems, weight-related issues, mental health, food quality, and nutrition.
The core objective of these guidelines is to shift the focus of education away from purely academic performance toward the holistic physical and psychological development of students. To achieve this goal, eight key measures have been identified.
In primary and secondary schools, at least two hours of structured physical activity will be ensured daily. In addition, 15-minute breaks will be introduced, and universities will promote programs aimed at improving physical fitness. To strengthen aesthetic education, schools will provide comprehensive art courses and organize regular exhibitions and cultural activities so that all students can participate. Similarly, through labor and skills education, students will be encouraged to develop positive work habits and practical abilities.
In the field of mental health, emphasis has been placed on strengthening professional support teams and promoting a national monitoring and early warning system. Comprehensive measures will be taken to prevent vision problems—particularly at the kindergarten and primary school levels—while cooperation between schools, families, and medical institutions will be strengthened to prevent obesity.
Food quality and safety on campuses will also be further tightened. This includes strengthening food monitoring systems and appointing dedicated nutrition and safety staff. In addition, life-safety education will be included in the curriculum, first-aid training will be widely promoted, and the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and other emergency equipment in schools will be made mandatory.
Under this policy, pilot programs have already been launched in more than 540 schools across seven provincial-level regions, including Beijing, Hebei, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Shandong, Hainan, and Guangdong. These schools will develop model practices that can be replicated nationwide.
The document also outlines a three-phase roadmap. By 2027, pilot projects will be completed and improved standards and evaluation systems will be established. By 2030, the concept of “health first” will be widely adopted and health-related facilities in schools will be significantly improved. By 2035, the goal is to establish high-quality “Healthy Schools” across the entire country.
The “Healthy Schools” initiative indicates that China aims to reshape its education system into a comprehensive framework that integrates physical, mental, and moral development. By giving equal importance to sports, arts, labor, and mental health, the country is striving to nurture a balanced and healthy new generation. If the policy progresses according to its planned stages, the educational environment in the coming decade could become more balanced, safe, and health-focused.
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