Describes the role of education in the development of the economy of a village in Sichuan province. Uses the planning employed by this village as a model and furnishes examples of specific steps taken to confront multiple problems in providing education for growth and economic development. (NL)

Many have argued that, despite the meritocratic ideals of equal access and social mobility that underpin examination-governed education hierarchies, the rural majority are typically excluded or eliminated in the early stages of the competition. The scholastic nature of the uniform curricula, much of which has little relevance to rural life,…

Proposes that education reform serve economic development. Claims that rural education must provide necessary training to meet local economic conditions and further modernization efforts. Calls for policy adjustment, additional investment, and the utilization of new research in science and technology. (NL)

Suggests that the primary task of socialism is to develop a commodity economy in rural areas. Claims local education best meets the needs of local development. Sees vocational, technical, and adult education as the basic structure to initiate reform. Recommends making schools multifunctional; providing work-study structure and preemployment…

Warns that agriculture is the foundation of the national economy and that economic development depends on the scientific and technological skills of the peasants. Stresses that China must avoid concentration on urban education only. Identifies teacher preparation as the key factor in reform and urges scientific research support. (NL)

Claims millions of middle school graduates are unable to assist in meeting the nation's needs in economic development. States that educational and the economic sectors are not working together to solve the urgent task facing rural education. Provides plan for curriculum development with the stress on vocational education. (NL)