Young workers drawn to night classes in Shanghai

Rather than enjoying themselves at nightclubs, many young employees in Shanghai choose to attend night schools after work, sparking a new trend in nightlife activities among the younger generation.

Every Wednesday night since September 11, a group of young people gather together to learn the art of Chinese engraving at a community activity center in Shanghai's Changning district.

The class is scheduled to start at 7 pm, but even before 6:30 pm, many would arrive in advance to practice. "During our school days, we were often punctual for class. Now that we're working and attending night school, we can't help coming earlier," said the adult students.

They are the participants of a public night school program initiated by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism that has been operated for eight years, aiming at extending culture and arts education to the greater mass. Local residents aged between 18 and 55 are eligible for enrollment.

The courses are organized by the Shanghai Mass Art Center and offered in spring and autumn. For this autumn, 382 courses are available ranging from traditional culture, fashion and intangible cultural techniques, to music, dance, coffee, food, makeup, language, software skills and lifestyle lessons.