China's higher education system has made breakthroughs and decisive achievements during 1996-2000.

Statistics from the State Development Planning Commission shows that until April 2000, China had 1,814 universities and colleges with 11 million students, and the enrollment rate had reached 11 percent.

As China continues its reform in education system, 450 universities and colleges have merged into 188 universities.

A total of 452 universities reformed their management system, with 360 universities directed by local governments.

In addition, management of most polytechnic schools has been transferred from the jurisdiction of the central government to the provincial government, indicating more rational resource allocation and higher work effectiveness.

(People's Daily09/29/2000)