Shanghai has released its 15th five-year plan for the development of public services, underscoring its commitment to building a modern, accessible public service system that meets the needs of people of all ages by 2030.

The plan sets 11 key indicators to measure progress, including a binding target requiring more than 35 percent of elderly care workers to hold intermediate- or advanced-level professional certifications by 2030. Other targets cover average years of education for working-age residents, enrollment in childcare services for children under 3, sports participation rates, and care services for people with severe disabilities.

Shanghai will accelerate the development of a mental health and psychological support network, strengthen its professional workforce, and establish comprehensive quality control mechanisms. The city will also improve coordination between medical and elderly care services. Nursing homes will boost their medical capabilities, while hospitals and care facilities will establish more efficient referral mechanisms.

For vulnerable groups, Shanghai will expand support for people with severe disabilities by improving care facilities and exploring integrated service centers that bring rehabilitation, nursing, and social welfare services together under one roof. For disadvantaged children, including those with autism, the city will provide greater financial support, family counseling, and community integration programs. Social assistance will shift toward comprehensive support packages combining financial aid and services.

The plan prioritizes services for both elderly residents and young people. For seniors, Shanghai will promote coordinated home-, community-, and institutional-based care while refining its long-term care insurance program, including its coverage, assessment, and payment mechanisms.

To support childbirth and child-rearing, Shanghai will expand child care services and fully implement parental leave and related subsidies. Kindergartens will open nursery classes where feasible, while community-based baby care centers will serve infants. Preschool education will focus on improving quality and accessibility.

Youth services will be strengthened through five major initiatives covering entrepreneurship and innovation, employment, housing, health, and marriage. Shanghai will develop youth-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and communities, while expanding temporary accommodation and subsidized rental housing for young professionals. Assistance programs will also help young people manage housing costs.

In education, the city will optimize resource allocation across all levels of schooling, with a particular focus on increasing high school capacity and expanding undergraduate enrollment for qualified students. Higher education institutions will be encouraged to better serve community needs, while older adults will have access to a wider range of continuing education programs. The city will also develop a more comprehensive lifelong learning system.

Source: China Daily