It was reported on Tuesday that the provincial education department of Guangdong has announced regulations to help tackle problems often faced by children affected by HIV/AIDS.

According to Shenzhen Daily, the new rules will protect their right to free compulsory education by defining schools' responsibilities and ensuring their fulfillment.

They stipulate that schools cannot refuse to enroll children with HIV positive family members, or children who have HIV themselves.

They will also be obliged to keep personal information on students and family members with HIV confidential.

The report said that any school violating the regulations will be 'severely punished.'

Schools and their staff will also be held accountable for any discriminatory comments or behavior toward HIV positive students.

(Shenzhen Daily January 20, 2005)