China Eyes Free Preschool Education Amid Birth Crisis

China has unveiled a new initiative aimed at gradually waiving preschool education fees, the latest push to address the country’s declining birth rate and shrinking population.

Under the new plan, children in their final year at public kindergartens will have their early childhood care and education fees waived, according to guidelines issued by China’s State Council on Aug. 5. Private institutions are also required to reduce tuition fees in line with the amount waived at local public kindergartens, the guidelines stated.