Wang Hong is a professor at China University of Mining and Technology and a deputy to the National People's Congress. [Photo/news.jstv.com]

Wang Hong, a professor at China University of Mining and Technology, put forward suggestions on improving policies on general and vocational education and promoting the high-quality development of energy-related colleges at this year's national two sessions.

General and vocational education are two different channels for students with a diversity of abilities, said Wang. However, in many cases, students with high grades enter general schools, while those with low scores are directed towards vocational schools. Wang stressed that both types of education are equally important, and the current pattern may impose psychological burdens on students.

To address this, Wang suggested strengthening the integration of general and vocational education at all grades. At primary and secondary schools, vocational schools can provide labor and vocational education. This includes incorporating hands-on activities into courses and evaluations of students.

Additionally, Wang recommended the establishment of comprehensive high schools with a focus on the training of special skills, providing students with opportunities to choose between general and vocational schools and to plan their careers accordingly.

Regarding colleges specializing in energy like CUMT, Wang underscored their role in supporting the country's efforts to build a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient energy system. She urged the government to provide more policy support to such colleges, particularly addressing the shortage of teaching staff.

During last year's national two sessions, Wang suggested including mental health education in the national curriculum, which received positive responses from the Ministry of Education.