免费学前教育是“投资于人”的战略举措

Core Viewpoint - The recent State Council meeting has initiated measures to gradually implement free preschool education, emphasizing the importance of early education in the national education system and its role in promoting social equity and economic growth [1][2][3]. Group 1: Policy Implementation - The government aims to guide local authorities in detailing work plans and ensuring timely and sufficient allocation of subsidy funds for free preschool education [1][6]. - The 2024 "Preschool Education Law" establishes the goal of promoting inclusive preschool education and outlines the gradual implementation of free preschool education in suitable areas [1][2]. Group 2: Economic and Social Benefits - The free preschool education policy is expected to reduce childcare costs for families, alleviate birth anxiety, and enhance the willingness to have children, thereby stimulating economic growth [2][3]. - Investment in early education has the highest return rates, contributing significantly to human capital accumulation and preparing high-quality talent for the labor market [2][3]. Group 3: Addressing Inequality - The policy aims to narrow the resource gap in preschool education between urban and rural areas, ensuring access for vulnerable groups such as migrant and disabled children [2][4]. - By addressing high childcare costs and promoting educational equity, the policy serves as a foundational measure for social fairness and economic vitality [2][4]. Group 4: Strategic Importance - The implementation of free preschool education is a strategic investment in human capital, responding to pressing social issues and optimizing resource allocation [3][4]. - The policy is designed to enhance the quality of preschool education while considering regional differences and the diverse types of educational institutions [5][6].