China launches 100-day drive to boost graduate employment

The Ministry of Education has launched a "100-day sprint" employment initiative for the 2026 graduating class, running from June to August, to help college graduates secure jobs during the critical period before and after leaving campus, according to a notice issued by the ministry on Monday.

The notice said efforts should be made to create a favorable environment for graduate employment and to promote higher-quality and fuller employment for new graduates.

A total of 12.7 million college graduates are expected this year, according to figures previously released by the ministry.

Education authorities and universities have been urged to accelerate the implementation of employment-support policies, using quizzes and short videos to raise awareness of social security subsidies, tax incentives and startup loans, the ministry said.

In provincial regions, universities, schools, and departments where employment progress lags, institutions should establish one-on-one contact with local human resources officials. They should also conduct targeted visits to companies and organize small-scale, specialized campus job fairs.

Recruitment for policy-backed positions, including civil service posts, public institutions and State-owned enterprises, will be accelerated, with all hiring scheduled to be completed by the end of August.

Targeted assistance will be provided to disadvantaged graduates through one-on-one support and employment capacity-building initiatives. Each disadvantaged graduate will be offered at least three stable job opportunities.

Strict regulations governing employment data reporting will be enforced, with violations subject to serious penalties. Continuous tracking and support will also be provided after graduates leave campus to ensure uninterrupted employment services.

The ministry called on local education departments and universities to implement the "top-leader responsibility system" for employment and strengthen accountability.

During the campaign, more than 4,000 campus job fairs are expected to be held nationwide, providing over 5 million job vacancies. The National College Student Employment Service platform will host more than 10 themed online job fairs, offering more than 1.5 million positions, the ministry added.