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China’s declining birth rate has led to a significant drop in both kindergarten numbers and enrolment, a new report has revealed.
In 2023, the number of kindergartens decreased by over five per cent, with 14,808 closures, marking the second year of decline, according to an annual report by the ministry of education. Enrolment dropped by 11.55 per cent, or 5.35 million children, leaving around 40.9 million enrolled, which is the third consecutive year of falling numbers.
Primary schools across China have also seen a 3.8 per cent reduction.
“Meanwhile, the burden of elder care is intensifying.” said He Yafu, an independent demographer based in Guangdong province.
“Kindergarten operators need to adjust strategically to meet new challenges, such as expanding early childhood education to include children under three and establishing an integrated care-education system.”
Last week, it was reported that China was launching a massive survey to explore public apprehensions about having children, amid the ongoing decline in the birth rate despite previous government initiatives to encourage larger families.
The study, which will involve 30,000 participants from 1,500 communities, aims to uncover the reasons behind this reluctance and inform policies to support fertility.
The survey is part of broader efforts to address demographic challenges, including the country’s ageing population and economic pressures, which have deterred families from having more children.
Earlier this year China announced improved policies to promote childbirth as a government report said it would create a “birth-friendly society and promote long term, balanced population development”.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk
