Some Chinese citizens highlighted elderly care, job opportunities for young graduates, and housing accessibility as major issues at a press conference for the third session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing on Sunday, where officials addressed pressing livelihood concerns.
Sun Chufeng, a high school student, emphasized the growing importance of elderly care, especially for families with aging relatives.
"I'm more concerned about elderly care when it comes to social welfare. Since older people at home often have mobility problems, I think society should focus on this more," Sun said.
Employment challenges remain a key concern for some young graduates. Cao Hanwen, a Beijing resident who graduated a year ago, acknowledged improvements in housing policies but noted that job availability remains the primary issue for many.
"I just graduated a year ago and have entered the workforce for a year. I think the housing situation in Beijing is still relatively good, and I've heard that there are adjustments to the housing provident fund. The current policy can still cover part of the rent, but it mainly depends on one's job position," Cao said.
Similarly, Sun Xiaonan, a third-year graduate student approaching graduation, expressed concerns about financial stability after graduation, particularly in relation to housing.
"I'm graduating soon. I am in my third year of graduate school. When I was looking for a job in my field, I always asked about any housing benefits available. After all, income can be unstable right after graduation, and the biggest expenses are usually food and housing," Sun said.
The press conference, attended by key government officials -- including the ministers of Civil Affairs, Human Resources and Social Security, Housing and Urban-Rural Development, as well as the head of the National Health Commission -- highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to address these livelihood concerns. Officials outlined policies aimed at enhancing social welfare, boosting employment, and improving housing affordability.
Chinese citizens highlight elderly care, jobs, housing at NPC press conference on livelihood issues
