Chinese lawmakers discuss draft legal education law

Schools at all levels should offer legal education courses according to students' ages and utilize youth centers or institutions to carry out legal education practices, a draft law said.

The draft law, aimed at promoting public legal education and enhancing law-based social governance, is being discussed by Chinese lawmakers after it was submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, on Saturday.

While requiring primary and secondary schools to appoint a vice-principal for legal affairs, the draft law also encourages schools at all levels to organize activities themed on the rule of law and integrate law education into daily management.

In addition to highlighting education among youths, it clarifies that state employees should take the lead in studying laws, specifying that legal knowledge need to be incorporated into the content of civil servant recruitment examinations.

It also encourages and supports legal professionals in legislation, prosecution, trial, mediation and other legal fields to volunteer in providing legal services and conducting legal lectures, urging online service providers to strengthen legal education for their employees and internet users.

Furthermore, it stipulates that operators of public venues should focus on public concerns such as consumer rights protection, anti-telecom and online fraud, food and drug safety, fire safety and personal information protection while promoting legal education in their areas.