China's disabled find support and opportunities

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01:19

Gaokao, China's national college entrance exam, has been a stepping stone for many Chinese youngsters who aspire for a better life.

However, for a long time, it was taken for granted that only the able-bodied could take the exam.

China has 85 million registered disabled people, with 43.9 percent illiteracy rate.

But things are gradually changing. Now, more and more disabled candidates are realizing their potential by securing a place for themselves in mainstream colleges via gaokao.

With the policy of "reasonable" assistance, many such students are being encouraged to take the exam.

For example, the exam for blind and visually impaired students is set in Braille, a tactile writing system. While those with hearing disabilities are allowed to use hearing aids, such students can also exempt themselves from oral tests.

Those with physical disabilities can use wheelchairs and crutches, and there is a provision to extend the exam's duration if they need more time.

In the past five years, around 44,300 disabled candidates have been admitted to mainstream universities via gaokao.

As China works toward the goal of achieving zero poverty, poor people with disabilities should not be left behind. Over 2.8 million disabled people are still living below the poverty line.

China has pledged to eradicate extreme poverty by the end of 2020.

Rediscovering China is a 30-minute feature program offering in-depth reports on major issues facing China today. It airs on Sundays at 10.30 a.m. BJT (02.30 GMT), with a rebroadcast at 11.30 p.m. (15.30 GMT), Mondays at 8.30 a.m. (00.30 GMT) and Fridays at 1.30 p.m. (05. 30 GMT).