Tang points out that education is not a zero-sum game in which one has to sacrifice grades to achieve well-rounded development or vice versa.

"Doing well in examinations do matter. The point is that we should not only focus on this aspect of education," he said.

"In fact, it would be irresponsible for any school to neglect the academic performance of students."

However, educators must realize that the ultimate goal of education is not about scoring good grades, but imparting useful skills that would allow students to lead a good life, he added.

"We must preserve the balance by means of compromises," said Tang, quoting British philosopher Bertrand Russell in his book On Education, Especially in Early Childhood.

"It's our duty and challenge to achieve the balance between two forces which seem to be contrary to each other."

Xin Siyuan contributes to this story.