However, in light of the increasing popularity of post-graduate education in the country, the school time will be prolonged, in the wake of which, the shortage of laborers will be further intensified in China in the coming years, when considering the decreasing birth rates.

The reduction of school time is a key factor in reversing the trend, Ruan said, adding that it also serves as a driving force in building China into a country powered by innovation.

Cutting school time doesn't mean fewer courses, Ruan noted, calling for shifting some difficult parts in some courses from primary education stage to higher ones while ramping up more efforts in cultivating students' various skills including logical thinking, language as well as creativity.

Ruan Shiwei, deputy director of Fujian Provincial Commission of Health and Family Planning, a member of the 13th CPPCC national committee, gives an interview to People.com ahead of the conference, which commenced in Beijing on Saturday. [Photo/fj.people.cn]