National Education Work Conference Scheduled for 2026

On January 8, 2026, the National Education Work Conference was convened in Beijing, a pivotal gathering led by Huai Jinpeng, the Secretary of the Party and Minister of the Ministry of Education. This meeting marks an important step in shaping the future trajectory of education in China as it aligns with the overarching goals set forth by the government.

The conference was anchored in the principles of Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, emphasizing the necessity to implement Xi Jinping’s vital educational remarks and the spirit of the National Education Conference. Participants were urged to deepen their understanding of the 'Two Establishments' and the 'Four Self-Confidences' while primarily focusing on enhancing education's support for technological advancement and talent cultivation.

Further, it was conveyed that efforts must be directed at improving the quality and accessibility of public educational services, while also accelerating comprehensive educational reform initiatives. These reforms are aimed at establishing a high-quality educational system capable of nurturing talent and fortifying the societal foundation essential for achieving socialist modernization.

The meeting stressed that 2025 serves as a year where educational administrators and teachers should embody practical work principles while thoroughly implementing General Secretary Xi Jinping's discussions on education. As a central objective, fostering moral integrity and cultivating talent should be at the forefront of educational endeavors, aligning with the directive to enhance the quality of public education.

During this phase of the 14th Five-Year Plan, significant emphasis will also be placed on addressing the evolving challenges and requirements presented by both domestic and international educational landscapes. The construction of a robust educational system is set to align closely with national strategic interests, responding proactively to rapid global changes.

As a transitional year, 2026 is recognized as crucial for the execution of a three-year action plan aimed at solidifying China as a strong educational nation. There will be a focus on implementing directives from the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party, emphasizing the need for a resolute push in tackling major educational tasks with vigor and determination.

In alignment with these objectives, nurturing talents that are beneficial to the Party and the nation will be prioritized. This includes enhancing curricula that integrate Xi Jinping's Thought, developing original educational resources, and advocating for the promotion of cultural identity among students through healthier learning environments.

Moreover, adaptations in response to demographic shifts will see a redistribution of educational resources aimed at ensuring equity and quality in education across regions. Initiatives will also aim to optimize higher education structures in tandem with strategic national needs, emphasizing localized university development.

To further the country's aims, education will not only support technological innovations but also focus on enhancing collaboration between industry and educational institutions. The integration of career-oriented education and improvements in lifelong learning services will be crucial in honing a skilled workforce.

The conference underscored the necessity of maintaining robust governance over educational processes, ensuring that political awareness and accountability are upheld throughout the system. All members within the Ministry of Education and related bodies gathered at this meeting to discuss vital strategies for enhancing the nation's educational landscape and its global standing.