THE SYSTEM OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN CHINA: CURRENT STATE AND MAIN DIRECTIONS OF DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the evolution, current state, and strategic development vectors of the continuing education system in the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The aim of the article is to elucidate the fundamental role of the "lifelong learning" concept in ensuring equal access to quality educational services for all categories of PRC citizens. Particular attention is paid to the potential of continuing education as an effective tool for overcoming social inequality, mitigating regional disparities, and fostering personal development and career advancement across various age and socio-professional groups.

To achieve this aim and address the research objectives, a set of complementary methods was employed, including the theoretical analysis of academic literature and a comparative legal analysis of government decisions, long-term development strategies, directives from the PRC Ministry of Education, and state regulatory documents.

Results. It is demonstrated that China's continuing education system serves as a key mechanism for the successful adaptation of society to the dynamic changes of the post-industrial world. The study establishes that the country's top leadership views the modernization of this system as an essential prerequisite for enhancing the competitiveness and efficiency of the Chinese economy. The interaction between the PRC central government, regional authorities, and relevant ministries and agencies is analysed, highlighting how this collaboration enables the creation of flexible educational pathways and the active implementation of digital platforms for distance learning.

Conclusions. The development of lifelong learning in the PRC is a key factor in modern economic transformations and the creation of a “leading educational nation”. It significantly optimizes citizen employment processes, narrows economic disparities between urban and rural regions, ensures social equity in the labor market, and guarantees the rational, highly efficient use of the country’s intellectual and labor resources in the long term.