BEIJING -- The Chinese Ministry of Education has released an action plan aimed at curbing food waste in schools and promoting the tradition of thrift among students.

The education of diligence and frugality should be integrated into courses offered by schools, ranging from kindergartens to universities, the ministry said in the document.

Various activities will be carried out to promote the "Clean Your Plate" campaign in schools and ramp up awareness of respecting food labor and valuing food among students, it added.

Meanwhile, school canteens are required to improve their service and introduce flexible food serving ways, according to the action plan.