Vice-premier Liu Yandong stressed the need to push forward rational and democratic decision-making and deepen the comprehensive reform of education.

Liu made the remarks at the first plenary session of the Second National Education Advisory Committee on Aug 22.

She called on authorities to focus on the core mission of deeper educational reform and offer guidance, so as to provide the manpower and intellectual support to build a moderately prosperous society and realize the Chinese Dream.

The vice-premier listened to the speeches of 10 commissioners in the advisory committee.

She said that in recent years, the development of education in China has gained momentum as the reform deepens, and significant progress has been made concerning educational equality.

Liu also commended the National Education Advisory Committee for its role in pushing forward the reform.

She said the committee has offered guidance on public policy-making in the field of education, including advice on educational reform pilot programs - and it has also influenced public opinion.

Liu said it is now the key moment to deepen the comprehensive reform of education, and to aim for a more modernized system by 2020.

She stressed that China should strive to realize a high-level modern education system with Chinese characteristics by following objective laws concerning education as well as learning from advanced countries.

The vice-premier said officials should identify the key tasks of the overall reform and focus on solving existing problems.

Liu called for improved resource allocation decisions to promote fairness in education - as well as more suitable training to achieve quality education - and a better management style.

The vice-premier also said she hoped the advisory committee would conduct in-depth research on the reform and offer good suggestions for the development of China’s education system.

The Second National Education Advisory Committee has 71 members and consists of 10 groups.