Graduates unconvinced by calls to toil in the countryside

Amid record joblessness, the government wants young people to go to the farmland. But the prospect is unappealing

- Amy Hawkins

Wanted: recent graduates keen to gain experience in a teaching environment and an adventure far from home. Perks of the role include hands-on experience, CV fodder and, most importantly, job security. Cons include long hours, low pay, limited social life and poor infrastructure in remote locations (running water cannot be guaranteed).

This is the offer facing China's graduating class of 2023: decamp to work in impoverished rural areas. But many young people are not convinced.

More than 11.5 million students will graduate this summer looking to move into a jobs market where youth unemployment is at a record high. In June, 21.3% of 16- to 24-year-olds in urban areas were out of work, according to official statistics. Some economists reckon that figure is understating the reality.

A slow economic rebound after Covid and a government crackdown on industries that have traditionally provided jobs for young graduates have contributed to the high joblessness rate. The economy grew by 6.3% in the second quarter compared with a year earlier, slower than expected.