From the Chinese press

Military training program dull

Media reports say some military officers beat up high school students during a military training program in a town in Hunan province. Although some people argue that students should not be subjected to military training to avoid similar incidents, the fact is that such training programs help students to get a general idea about national defense and develop the collective spirit. The real question is how to make such training programs friendlier and more effective, says an article in China Youth Daily. Excerpts:

Many countries have compulsory military training programs for students to enhance their awareness about national security. Most Western countries are part of the scout movement. Boys and girls between the age of 6 and 20 (in separate groups) undergo training to help their physical, mental and spiritual development so that they could play constructive roles in society. They are also taught basic military skills, especially survival skills.