Chinese authorities have unveiled a series of measures aimed at improving the mental health of primary and secondary school students by reducing academic pressure, limiting screen time, and mandating daily physical exercise.
The Ministry of Education announced last month that mobile phones will be banned in classrooms, and schools must schedule “screen-free” periods to curb excessive internet use. Students are now required to participate in at least two hours of physical activity every school day, while schools are instructed to manage homework loads strictly.
In addition, schools are encouraged to adjust start and end times and provide sufficient lunch breaks to ensure students get adequate sleep. The ministry emphasized that the rules aim to prevent excessive studying, reduce stress, and support students’ overall well-being, particularly around exam periods.
Experts have long warned that heavy homework loads in Chinese schools contribute to sleep deprivation, anxiety, and depression among students. To further ease pressure, the Education Ministry is also reducing teachers’ workloads by limiting out-of-school duties and banning work on holidays and weekends.
China has previously taken steps to tackle academic pressure, including a 2021 law that cut homework requirements and banned after-school tutoring in core subjects. Despite these regulations, many parents continue to seek private tutoring to help their children stay competitive in the country’s high-stakes education system.
