It was reported on Tuesday that the provincial education
department of Guangdong
has announced regulations to help tackle problems often faced by
children affected by HIV/AIDS.
According to Shenzhen Daily, the new rules will protect
their right to free compulsory education by defining schools'
responsibilities and ensuring their fulfillment.
They stipulate that schools cannot refuse to enroll children
with HIV positive family members, or children who have HIV
themselves.
They will also be obliged to keep personal information on
students and family members with HIV confidential.
The report said that any school violating the regulations will
be 'severely punished.'
Schools and their staff will also be held accountable for any
discriminatory comments or behavior toward HIV positive
students.
(Shenzhen Daily January 20, 2005)