Public opinion key to solve educational problems

The education authorities in Changsha, Central China's Hunan province, have decided to start local primary schools from 8:30 am instead of 8 am to ensure students get 10 hours of sleep. The decision was welcomed by many parents because it is aimed at improving children's health. In an online survey conducted by China Youth Daily, only 9.5 percent of the 2,005 respondents disagreed with the decision.

Different from some other local education authorities that tried to change school timings but failed to do so because of parents' opposition, the Changsha education officials held a public hearing before making the decision. This shows we have to establish a more open decision-making mechanisms to solve educational problems, because arbitrary decisions could face public opposition.

Starting schools later than usual will ease students' academic burden and ensure they get enough sleep. But it could also create problems for parents. Families in different cities and regions may have different views on the issue, so education authorities should not make arbitrary decisions. Many parents are opposed to such a move because it would be difficult for them to arrange their work.