BEIJING — Vice-Premier Sun Chunlan on June 1 inspected preparations for the national college entrance examination, or the Gaokao, to be held on June 7 and 8.

Sun, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visited a middle school and an examination authority in Beijing during her inspection.

A total of 10.78 million students across China have registered for this year's Gaokao, hitting a new record. Sun urged efforts to implement the anti-COVID-19 measures to prevent a resurgence in cases.

COVID-19 patients and their close contacts will be allowed to sit their exams in medical facilities or isolation venues if conditions permit, said Sun.

She also called for strengthened preparations for potential emergencies including extreme weather, adding that convenience should be provided for exam participants with disabilities or difficulties.

Noting that the Gaokao is crucial to ensuring equality in education and social fairness, Sun demanded intensified efforts to prevent cheating in exams, and the strict implementation of enrollment policies and plans.