Huang, speaking at a national teleconference held by the State Council, called for all-out efforts and a greater sense of responsibility and obligation in order to ensure the completion of the task.

Huang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, highlighted the importance of adherence to reforms, urged improved supervision and services and encouraged graduates to work and gain experience in local units or underdeveloped areas.

The CPC Central Committee and the central government have given high priority to creating jobs for the graduates, said Huang, viewing the task as crucial to the successful implementation of the strategy to revitalize the country through science and education, as well as crucial to the nation's political stability.

In 1999, China's university and college enrollment began an upward trend. Based on an average four-year academic program, the class of 2003 will be comprised of as many as 2.12 million graduates, up 46 percent from 2002.

With respect to this year's difficulties in employing graduates, Huang said that, although it is a long-term and perplexing task, it could be carried out successfully with strenuous efforts.

The State Council has set down 11 guidelines for employing university graduates.

The regulations include encouraging work in education, health, agri-technology and poverty relief in suburbs and rural areas, urging units to increase recruitment, supporting efforts at self-employment and helping graduates develop practical job-hunting and employment skills.

(Xinhua News Agency June 4, 2003)