BEIJING - The central government has allocated 20.7 billion yuan ($3.4 billion) this year to disadvantaged schools in the countryside.

The money will be used for equipment, books and reconstruction. Funds of this kind have totalled 65.7 billion yuan from 2010 to 2013, according to the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.

An executive meeting of the State Council, China's Cabinet, last Wednesday decided to improve basic schooling standards in compulsory education.

In three to five years, school buildings must meet safety requirements, such as anti-earthquake and fire control standards, facilities should be able to meet the basic educational and living needs, and the quality of teachers should meet the basic needs of compulsory education.

All Chinese children are entitled to nine years of free education, covering primary and junior high schools.