Boosting rural education

THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT'S DECISION TO inject more money into rural education is a laudable step to make the best use of the country's bulging public coffers.

It is hoped that Chinese policymakers will make even bolder strides in this regard and strive to boost equal education to help bridge the development gap between rural and urban areas.

More importantly, increased public expenditure on education is essential so that the country is prepared for both short-term shocks, such as a possible double-dip recession in the global economy, and long-term challenges like adapting economic growth to an aging population.