Wuhu city authorities recently provided 468 sets of nap-friendly equipment to several schools. The backrest of the chair is adjustable, and the seat can extend. During class, they function as standard chairs, but for midday breaks, with simple adjustments, they transform into comfortable mini-beds for students.

These chairs adhere to technical standards released by China's State Administration for Market Regulation last September.

Beyond Wuhu, approximately 2,000 new sets of desks and chairs were introduced in schools in Urumqi (Xinjiang) this semester. In Shenzhen, over 400 schools have implemented these units to improve students' midday naps. An additional 200 schools are expected to join this initiative.

"Before, I could only slouch over my desk to nap, which hurt my neck. Now I can lie flat," said Cai Minhui, a student at Fucheng Central Primary School.

Currently, most primary and secondary schools in China allocate about two hours for lunch and rest.

"Students who get a proper midday nap will recover their energy, thus better absorbing lessons in the afternoon," shared Ms. Lu Xiao, a parent in Liaoning.

Chinese students napping on new desks and chairs. Video: Mao Ning Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Fanpage.

Previously, many schools had independently piloted "lie-down sleeping" arrangements, leading to a boom in the market for multi-functional desks and chairs. However, concerns about varying quality and safety issues prompted authorities to issue national standards.

Ms. Zhang Qiongli, a National People's Congress deputy and teacher in Hubei, actively promoted this initiative. She stated that nearly 40,000 students in Enshi district (Hubei) have been able to nap lying down thanks to this equipment.

Despite these efforts, the number of schools able to implement this remains modest. Challenges include limited space, funding, and more.

By Khanh Linh (Based on reports from China Daily, The Straits Times)