The Chinese Government published the Regulation on Educational Inspections on September 17, aiming to improve quality and fairness in education.

The regulation, which is scheduled to go into effect on October 1, dictates procedures to be used during such inspections, as well as specifies qualifications and disciplinary measures for inspectors.

Inspections will focus on the management of faculty, safety and hygienic conditions, compulsory education and the fair distribution of education resources, the regulation states.

It also gives inspectors authorization to review the financial records of schools within their jurisdiction, as well as calls for additional access to other related documents.

Any failure to assist inspectors may result in disciplinary punishment for the heads of schools, says the regulation, adding that inspection reports should be made public.

An inter-ministry committee for education inspection has been established under the State Council, China's cabinet, to coordinate the initiative across the country.