China’s Two Sessions: Focus on Sleep Health, Education, and Employment

China’s ongoing Two Sessions, the annual meetings of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), are highlighting key issues impacting the nation, including public health, education, and employment. Discussions range from addressing sleep deprivation among citizens to improving school meal quality and prioritizing college graduate employment.

Addressing Sleep Deprivation

A growing concern over sleep health in China has prompted National People’s Congress representative Chen Wei to propose incorporating “sleep health” into national special actions, mirroring strategies used for weight management. According to Chen Wei, abnormal late nights – those not necessitated by work or emergencies – are prevalent, driven by lifestyle factors, online entertainment, work pressure, and academic burdens. China Youth Daily reports that a 2025 research paper by the Chinese Sleep Research Association found that a quarter of adults over 18 sleep less than 6 hours nightly, with over half falling asleep after midnight. Among college students, only 21% fall asleep before midnight, and 25% after 2 am.

Song Zhaopu, another NPC deputy, emphasized the importance of adequate sleep for young people, suggesting they aim to be in bed by 11 pm to support gallbladder and liver health.

Improvements in Education

Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng announced plans for in-depth special management of school meals and teaching aid subscriptions. These efforts are part of a broader “Basic Education Standardized Management Year” campaign aimed at addressing issues like illegal school operations, excessive study, and campus bullying. China Youth Daily reports that the Ministry will also increase public kindergarten places and ensure equal access to education for vulnerable children, including migrant and left-behind children, and those with disabilities.

Expanding Elderly Care Services

The Ministry of Civil Affairs will work with other departments to enhance elderly care services, including increasing financial support, improving planning and standards, and promoting smart elderly care technologies. A key initiative is the inclusion of “elderly care service technician” as a new profession, aiming to bolster the workforce in this growing sector. China Youth Daily reports that this will involve strengthening training programs and recognizing vocational skill levels.

Prioritizing College Graduate Employment

Employment of college graduates is a top priority, with the term “employment” mentioned 47 times during a recent people’s livelihood-themed press conference. Minister of Human Resources and Social Security Wang Xiaoping highlighted the importance of supporting the 12.7 million college graduates expected this year, emphasizing their potential as a valuable workforce. The Ministry plans to explore diverse employment channels, expand opportunities in grassroots sectors, and provide pre-graduation employment services and training.

“15th Five-Year Plan” Development

The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has emphasized a comprehensive and inclusive approach to developing the “15th Five-Year Plan.” Zheng Bei, deputy director of the NDRC, stated that the plan prioritizes people’s livelihoods and incorporates feedback from key groups, including flexible employment personnel, youth, migrant workers, and disabled people. The NDRC conducted extensive research, including nearly 200 supporting reports and over 50 symposiums, gathering nearly 70,000 suggestions.

International Developments

Recent international developments include Iran’s announcement regarding the details of its “True Commitment 4” operation, stating that all missiles launched hit their intended targets, according to CCTV News. Former U.S. President Trump expressed his desire to be involved in selecting Iran’s next leader. Saudi Arabia has reportedly promised Iran that its territory will not be used to launch attacks against it, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Sports News

Chinese athlete Cai Jiayun won China’s first gold medal at the Milan Winter Paralympics in the men’s 7.5-kilometer short-distance biathlon (standing). China Youth Daily reports that Liu Xiaobin won the silver medal in the same event.

Trade Concerns

The Ministry of Commerce has responded to a ban by Allianz Netherlands on office software for its China-based employees, warning that the Netherlands could be held responsible if it triggers a crisis in the global semiconductor industry supply chain, according to Xinhua News Agency.

Women’s Health

On the eve of International Women’s Day, experts emphasize the importance of proactive fertility planning, noting that female fertility begins to decline after age 35. China Youth Daily reports that approximately 1 in 6-8 couples in China face infertility issues, with roughly equal rates for men and women.