With 12.7m new grads in 2026, focus on jobs

China is expected to have 12.7 million new college graduates next year, an increase of 480,000 from 2025, the Ministry of Education announced on Thursday. In response, the ministry has instructed educational authorities and universities nationwide to launch a campaign aimed at expanding employment opportunities and enhancing job quality for the graduating class of 2026. The initiative emphasizes implementing pro-employment policies, creating and stabilizing job opportunities, supporting entrepreneurship, deepening industry-education integration, and providing targeted assistance to disadvantaged student groups. Since the fall semester, the ministry has guided universities to organize a series of campus recruitment events, offering over 12 million job openings. Universities are encouraged to introduce more "micro-minors" and vocational training courses aligned with industry needs to help graduates improve their employability.

China, Russia officials discuss defense ties

Zhang Youxia, vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission, held talks with Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov during his visit to Russia on Thursday, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense said on Thursday. The senior military official was invited by the Russian side, according to a news statement by the ministry. The two sides had in-depth exchanges on ties between the two countries and their militaries, the international and regional situation, and issues of common concern, it said. They reached a consensus on strengthening high-level exchanges and deepening practical cooperation, the release said. Prior to the talks, Belousov hosted a welcome ceremony for Zhang, it added.

China Daily