免费学前教育今秋惠及1200万儿童 中央财政资金已到位

Group 1: Policy Overview - The State Council has issued an opinion to gradually implement free preschool education, starting from the fall semester of 2025, which will exempt public kindergartens from charging care and education fees for children in their last year before primary school [1][3] - This initiative is seen as a milestone in the development of preschool education in China, aimed at addressing public needs, improving living standards, and promoting balanced population development [1][2] Group 2: Financial Implications - The policy is expected to benefit approximately 12 million children, with an estimated increase in national fiscal expenditure of about 20 billion yuan for the upcoming fall semester, which will correspondingly reduce family education expenses by the same amount [3][4] - The financial burden due to the exemption of care fees will be shared between central and local governments, with specific funding ratios based on regional economic conditions [3][4] Group 3: Implementation and Future Considerations - The Ministry of Finance has allocated sufficient funds for the implementation of the policy, ensuring timely distribution to kindergartens [4][8] - Future considerations include the potential extension of free education policies to earlier preschool years and high school, depending on economic and demographic factors [4][7] Group 4: Supportive Measures - The establishment of a comprehensive support system for childbirth and child-rearing is emphasized, which includes financial, service, and cultural support to create a favorable environment for families [2][10] - The government aims to create a multi-dimensional support framework that includes economic assistance, public services, and measures to alleviate the burden on families with multiple children [11]