According to Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng, the employment rate among recent college graduates this year has shown a 2 to 3 percentage point increase compared to last year, as of July 2. However, he did not provide the specific figure.
Huai emphasized that the number of college graduates this year has risen by 8 percent, reaching 11.58 million, compared to the previous year. He attributed these positive outcomes to the collective efforts of central authorities and the entire society. Speaking at a news conference held at the State Council Information Office, Huai acknowledged the achievements made in this regard.
In May, the National Bureau of Statistics reported that the unemployment rate for individuals aged 16 to 24 stood at 20.8 percent. The bureau clarified that out of the 96 million people within this age group, approximately 6 million were unemployed, with many still attending school.
Huai expressed optimism about the immense potential that over 10 million new college graduates entering the workforce would bring to social development, innovation, and research.
To ensure that college graduates can find suitable employment, particularly those facing difficulties, Huai emphasized the need for government support. He mentioned that such graduates have been provided with a minimum of three to five job opportunities.
Furthermore, Huai stressed the importance of aligning university majors with the demands of social and economic development, and he encouraged students to apply their knowledge effectively, thereby fostering talent for the benefit of society.
Huai noted a shift in the employment mindset of today’s youth compared to that of previous generations. Many students now have a variety of career choices, opting for flexible work or waiting for the best job opportunity, even when they have multiple offers. He underscored the need for a proactive employment concept and encouraged students to explore society and create value through employment.
Deng Chuanhuai, director of the Ministry of Education’s department of policies and regulations, outlined several initiatives aimed at boosting employment for college graduates. These measures include university visits to enterprises and organizing job fairs, tailored guidance for job-seeking students, and encouragement to pursue internships for skill enhancement and increased confidence.
Deng emphasized that universities would continue to offer assistance and employment services to graduates who have not secured jobs. He also mentioned that the ministry conducts surveys to gather insights into the employment situations of graduates from different majors, enabling appropriate adjustments to be made.
Zhao Jie, a soon-to-be graduate from Anqing Normal University in Anhui province, shared her personal experience of facing job search challenges. However, thanks to a visit by the university’s vice president, Wu Qiong, Zhao managed to secure a position at Anhui ARN Group, a car component manufacturing company in Anqing.
To broaden employment opportunities for college graduates, the Ministry of Education has mandated university administrators to visit a minimum of 100 enterprises annually since last year. According to Xia Fei, vice director of the university’s department of student affairs, administrators at Anqing Normal University have already visited nearly 300 enterprises since March.
During Wu’s visit to the company on March 11, agreements were signed between the university and Anhui ARN Group, establishing internships and an employment center at the company. As a result of these agreements, Zhao gained interview opportunities and secured a job offer from the company.
Zhao expressed her satisfaction with the position, highlighting its relevance to her major and her ability to apply the knowledge acquired during her university education.
