Notice calls for improving Chinese character writing

China recently issued a notice on improving Chinese character writing in primary and secondary schools in an effort to promote the country's linguistic and cultural heritage, the Ministry of Education said.

The notice focuses on not only improving handwriting skills, but also integrating such skills into school curricula. It marks the first time that China has emphasized the educational functions of standardized Chinese character writing and language learning in schools, a ministry official said.

A key goal is to help students appreciate the historical and cultural value embedded within Chinese characters, the notice said.

Chinese characters are a symbol of the inheritance of Chinese culture, with their structure remaining stable for over 3,000 years.

"The exploration and utilization of the rich traditional cultural values embedded within Chinese characters is insufficient," the official said, adding that currently, some primary and secondary schools lack guidance on the rules of stroke order and character structure.

Furthermore, incorrect writing posture not only hinders the development of students' physical and mental health, but also restricts the cultivation and improvement of their aesthetic abilities.

The notice aims to instill correct writing posture, cultivate habits for good handwriting and enable students to write standardized Chinese characters accurately. It outlines eight key goals, including encouraging good writing habits to support eye health and prevent spinal problems.

"We must prioritize the comprehensive development of students," the official said.

Students are also encouraged to participate in the recitation of Chinese classic poems and national art exhibitions, combining class and extracurricular activities to further their cultural understanding.

The notice also calls for promoting teachers' exemplary roles through competitions in pen, chalk and brush calligraphy. It is important to leverage digital tools to support handwriting education and involve it in the evaluation system, the notice said.

Schools are urged to use digital resources such as the Chinese language and writing digital "museum" — part of the Smart Education online portal — and the national language resources service platform, so that everyone can access standardized Chinese character education anytime and anywhere, the ministry official said.

Local education departments are urged to recognize the significance of handwriting education and ensure schools meet requirements for desks and lighting, it added.