Chinese State Councilor Liu Yandong Saturday called for advancing the "scientific development" of the country's basic education system to encourage the overall development of students.

Liu called on education authorities to focus on "competence-oriented education", or education for all-round development, prioritize the quality of education and push ahead with reforms and the continuing development of basic education.

Further, Liu urged teaching faculty in middle schools to cultivate students' sense of social responsibility, upgrade their ability to be innovative along with other practical skills.

She also called for teachers to serve as "mentors" for students and teach by personal example, as well as verbal instructions.

Liu made the remarks while attending an exhibition at the high school affiliated with Renmin University of China in downtown Beijing.