Ministry of Education makes pledge on teacher conduct

The Ministry of Education will continue to uphold professional ethics and conduct as the top priority in teacher evaluation and maintain a firm zero-tolerance stance toward any misconduct, a senior official said on Friday.

Wang Lei, director of the ministry's department of teacher education, said: "This is not only the bottom line of professional ethics for teachers, but also a safeguard of the honor of the profession and a solemn commitment to every student and every family."

The ministry has introduced a document on establishing long-term mechanisms for enhancing teacher ethics and conduct. It has also carried out targeted training programs on professional ethics for education administrators and leading teachers, Wang said.

Wang said the ministry has put in place comprehensive systems to publicly commend positive examples, carry out regular performance reviews, keep conduct under oversight, and ensure that those who violate rules are held responsible.

He added that instead of relying on short-term campaigns, the ministry is now working to make ethics management a normal, ongoing part of the education system.

Wang also said that procedures for handling disputes and complaints involving teachers will be streamlined, and teachers will have better access to legal advice and assistance.

When unfounded accusations are made against a teacher, the authorities will promptly clear the teacher's name and restore their reputation, he said.

As for those who fabricate facts or maliciously defame teachers, the ministry will maintain a zero-tolerance policy, work with relevant departments to take legal action, and ensure that the people responsible are held accountable, he added.