Shanxi province has announced a significant increase in funding for preschool education, with a total allocation of 1.32 billion yuan ($194.43 million) in central and provincial subsidies for 2026, as part of efforts to improve accessibility and affordability and ease the financial burden on families.

Of the total funds, 596 million yuan has been allocated to waive childcare and preschool education fees for the final year in public kindergartens. Additionally, subsidies have been provided to reduce fees for eligible children in private kindergartens, extending policy benefits.

Another 675 million yuan has been directed toward the construction, renovation, and expansion of public kindergartens, aiming to address the shortage of affordable educational resources in rural and underdeveloped areas, improve facilities, and enhance the quality of education.

A further 48 million yuan has been earmarked to support children from economically disadvantaged families, orphans, and children with disabilities, ensuring their equal right to access preschool education.

The provincial government plans to further refine the long-term funding mechanism for preschool education. Efforts will focus on increasing the supply of inclusive educational resources and reinforcing the policy of waiving childcare and education fees, providing a solid financial foundation for delivering preschool education that meets public expectations.