From Chinese Press

Stop favoritism in schools

(China Daily)
Updated: 2011-02-28 07:45

Children of people who have returned from abroad to start businesses, and overseas and domestic high-level talent are reportedly being granted 10 more points in exams for admission to Guangzhou's middle and primary schools, says an article in Yangcheng Evening News. Excerpts:

Generally, people don't complain if highly qualified foreigners, overseas or domestic returned talent are paid higher salaries and perks. But granting special favors to their children for admission to schools is unfair, because they have neither contributed nor are expected to contribute to the development of the city or country.

Nobody would complain if public funds were used to benefit the low-income group, because that would be an effort to spread fairness in society.

In fact, the benefits given to children of overseas returned or domestic high-level talent could harm their development because they could take such favors for granted and become dependable on their parents' success.

Children of the advantaged groups have been enjoying favors far beyond what they deserve. From kindergartens to universities, they have been in the front ranks, not because of their talent or hard work but because of the wealth, power or influence of their parents.

It will be impossible to build a harmonious society if such practices continue, so local governments should call a stop to unfair policies.