In line with China's recent initiatives to make the nation a better environment for its disabled population, the government announced increased assistance for people with disabilities on taking gaokao or the national college entrance examination.
"The regulations were released to ensure that people with disabilities can have convenient and equal access to exams," said the Ministry of Education.
Along with the China Disabled Persons' Federation, the ministry released the new regulations on Friday, May 15. According to the regulations, examining bodies all across the country are mandated by law to accommodate the specific needs of test takers suffering from disabilities.
Some of the benefits now open to disabled test takers include assistance from specialized staff, including sign language interpreters. Test takers will also be allowed to enter examination halls on an earlier time to avoid the rush of crowds. The use of wheelchairs and crutches by those with physical disabilities are allowed.
"This is the first time that China has, from the national level, drawn up solutions to solve problems that people with disabilities have in taking the gaokao. We believe the regulations will better serve their needs and ensure their rights," said the ministry.
The new regulations are a great leap toward the vision of a better China for disabled people.
Song Song, a researcher from Enabled Disabilities Studies Institute who has physical disabilities himself, is excited for this change.
"This group of people has been waiting for a long time. Without a doubt, it is great progress. In fact, many different and specific needs may arise in the gaokao for people with disabilities, not limited to those listed in the regulations," Song shared. "I hope all of their needs, within a reasonable range, can be met."
Earlier this month, the China Disabled Persons' Federation also opened a special hotline for people with disabilities.