Shanghai's 2022 college entrance exams, known as the gaokao, have been postponed to July 7–9 due to ongoing epidemic prevention measures, the city’s education commission announced this week. The decision affects over 50,000 students in one of China’s most competitive academic hubs.
Life in Lockdown: A Student’s Perspective
Zhou Lingqing, a senior at First Affiliated Middle School of East China Normal University, shares how COVID-19 restrictions have reshaped her final year. "We’ve shifted to digital classrooms and self-study modules," she says. "Staying focused while managing health protocols adds pressure, but teachers are using AI tools to simulate exam conditions."
Adapting to the New Normal
- Flexible Learning: Schools leverage hybrid platforms like DingTalk for real-time tutoring.
- Mental Health Support: Free counseling hotlines launched to address student anxiety.
- Safety First: Exam venues will enforce strict testing, masking, and distancing rules.
The Bigger Picture
Shanghai’s move reflects global trends: the SAT and GCSE exams also faced delays during pandemic peaks. Experts suggest proactive preparation—like timed practice tests at home—to counter disruptions. As Zhou puts it: "Resilience is our new subject."
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
