In order to modernize the education system  by 2010, Shanghai has initiated education system reforms, according to the city's Ministry of Education on October 19.
The first step would be to reduce learning loads in the elementary and middle schools. These schools have been advised to  improve the quality of students' reference materials and to strictly control the quantum of students' homework and tests.  None of the city's education departments are now permitted to evaluate the quality of education by conducting additional exams.
The city will also establish and continue to perfect the moral education system. The focus is on enhancing the awareness of the importance of the character building, integrity, knowledge of the legal system  and professional ethics. 
The key of the whole reform is to emphasize the 9-year compulsory education system in an all-around manner.
The disparity in the aspects of education outlays, equipment and teaching resources between the schools in towns and in the city should also be reduced.
Selection tests are no longer permitted during the elementary and junior middle school admissions.  The high school admission process should enhance the proportion of excellent junior graduates.  Where general appraisal is concerned, multiple selection and independent schemes could be ways of entry into universities.