China's Gaokao Exam Sparks Viral Plea for Labor Reform and Work-Life Balance
As the high-stakes exam season kicks off in China, the Gaokao, or National College Entrance Examination, has once again taken center stage. The exam, which determines the fate of millions of students, has become a national obsession, with the first student to exit the exam hall becoming an unwitting celebrity. The fervor surrounding the Gaokao has also sparked a range of reactions on social media, with many netizens using the opportunity to voice their hopes and wishes for the students. This phenomenon has highlighted the intense pressure and anxiety that students and their families face during this critical period, with stories of parents going to great lengths to ensure their children's safety and success, such as a mother who "tailed" her son to the exam venue, and grandparents, like 75-year-old Zhang, accompanying their grandchildren to the exam venue.
7 June 2025
The Gaokao has also become a platform for individuals to express their personal aspirations and wishes, with a young woman sending a bouquet of lilies to her childhood friend taking the exam, symbolizing her support and encouragement. Another netizen joked about asking the first student to exit the exam hall to shout out "Zhang Yi, get more roles!" - a lighthearted moment in an otherwise tense atmosphere. These stories and reactions underscore the significance of the Gaokao in Chinese society, where education is highly valued and the exam is seen as a crucial stepping stone for future success.
Amidst the excitement and tension, a peculiar appeal has begun circulating on Chinese social media platforms. Shi Jingbai, a well-known figure, has made a heartfelt request to the first student to exit the examination hall on the first day of the Gaokao, asking them to proclaim, "Promote universal two-day weekends and abolish the practice of offsetting holidays with workdays." This unusual request has sparked a significant discussion across the internet, highlighting the ongoing debate about labor rights and work-life balance in China. The country has been grappling with the implications of its economic growth, including long working hours and a lack of comprehensive labor protections, leading to a situation where many employees work extensive overtime without adequate compensation or time off.
The call to "promote universal two-day weekends and abolish the practice of offsetting holidays with workdays" reflects a desire among the populace for a better balance between work and personal life, and for labor laws that are more aligned with international standards. The practice of offsetting holidays, or "调休" (tiaoxiu), is particularly contentious, as it can lead to employees not truly having rest days. Shi Jingbai's appeal seeks to bring these issues to the forefront of national discourse, leveraging the platform of the Gaokao exams to push for policy changes that could benefit workers across China.
This viral plea also underscores the growing use of social media and indirect forms of activism in China, where direct political activism can be risky. By focusing on a specific, practical reform rather than making broader political demands, this campaign seeks to achieve tangible improvements in workers' lives while navigating the complexities of political expression in China. As the Gaokao exams proceed, the world will be watching not just for the students' academic achievements but also for any signs of this call to action being voiced.
The conversation around labor rights and work-life balance has become increasingly prominent, especially among the younger generation, with netizens like 矢外戈 calling for a four-day workweek with three days off, double pay for overtime, longer vacations, and an end to forced compensatory leave. Others, like 圆圆圈圈圆圈呀, have focused on offering words of encouragement, urging students to stay confident and driven, and reminding them that every step they take and every effort they make will pay off in the end. As China continues to evolve and grow, the examination season serves as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize well-being and happiness in the pursuit of success.
The story of the first student to emerge from the Gaokao exam hall, who plans to retake the exam next year, has sparked a conversation about the pressures and expectations surrounding the Gaokao. Netizens have expressed support and understanding for the student's decision, recognizing the immense pressure and stress that comes with the exam. Others have raised concerns about the psychological impact of such high-stakes exams, questioning whether the current education system adequately supports students' mental health and well-being. The incident prompts a broader reflection on the societal expectations placed on students, the culture of excellence, and the importance of pursuing one's passions and interests.
The reaction on social media highlights the evolving attitudes towards education and success in Chinese society, with a growing recognition of the importance of personal fulfillment and satisfaction over external validation. The willingness of the first exam finisher to retake the Gaokao, despite potential stigma, suggests a shift towards valuing personal goals and satisfaction. As the online community continues to reflect on this story, it underscores the complexity and multifaceted nature of the Gaokao experience, inviting a broader discussion on how to support students in achieving their full potential, both academically and personally.
