After a meeting with education representatives from around the island, the Ministry of Education announced on Wednesday that the start date of the next semester will be postponed to February 14th for all elementary and high schools nationwide, following the example of Taipei and New Taipei City.

The Ministry of Education had previously stressed that aside from bad weather or other special factors, it would follow established regulations and dates for the start of school.

However, it has since reversed that decision and allowed those in New Taipei City and Taipei to extend their holiday, and return to school on February 14.

In response, a number of counties and cities have commented on this situation,

and now the Ministry of Education is redefining the interpretation of "special circumstances" and has allowed each county and city to adjust the first day of school.

The Ministry of Education was criticized by the opposition DPP party for delaying its decision till now.

In the future, in May of each year, the Ministry of Education will meet with local governments and clearly announce the start of the new semester and make appropriate adjustments if needed.