The State Council, China's cabinet, is asking local governments and departments to make greater efforts to help this year's university graduates to find jobs.

In 1999, China's university and college enrollment began an upward trend. Based on an average four-year academic program, the class of 2003 will be made up of over two million graduates.

A circular issued by the General Office of the State Council stressed the importance and urgency of offering adequate employment opportunities to university graduates, as the task was vital to the overall development of the country.

The office also made clear that university graduates were encouraged to work and gain experience in local units or underdeveloped areas.

Government departments and state-owned enterprises and organizations should offer more opportunities to this year's university graduates.

University graduates were also encouraged to create their own businesses and departments concerned should give all possible assistance for the registration of university graduates.