HONG KONG — In a bold move to address growing concerns over childhood obesity, China is elevating physical education (PE) from a secondary subject to a core component of the school curriculum. The initiative aims to foster a more balanced approach to education, integrating fitness with academics for well-rounded student development.

The Ministry of Education has directed primary and secondary schools to ensure PE teachers receive equal treatment as those teaching core subjects like Chinese, math, and English. Additionally, schools must expand training in key sports such as football, basketball, and volleyball.

"These reforms reflect our commitment to holistic education—preparing students not just academically but physically for future challenges," stated the Ministry.

The push follows China’s January 2024 national blueprint for building an "education powerhouse" by 2035. Key policies include mandatory daily physical activity of at least two hours for students—a measure designed to curb rising myopia and obesity rates.

A nationwide shortage of roughly 120,000 PE teachers—most acute in rural areas—has prompted authorities to recruit retired athletes and military veterans. To attract talent, PE instructors will now earn salaries on par with other teachers while receiving performance-based bonuses for coaching extracurricular teams.

The Obesity Crisis Deepens

The pandemic exacerbated youth health challenges: lockdowns reduced physical activity while online food delivery made junk food more accessible. Doctors warn obesity could worsen over the next decade due to economic shifts promoting sedentary lifestyles.

• Boys' obesity rates: Skyrocketed from 1.3% (1990) → 15.2% (2022), nearing U.S levels (22%)
• Girls' obesity rates: Rose from 0.6% → 7.7% during same period

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