BEIJING, April 30 -- China will send outstanding officials to the countryside to improve rural governance and aid in poverty relief, according to the top authority of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

The candidates will be chosen from a wide range of fields, including government departments, universities, state-run enterprises and civil associations. They are required to have over two years of work experience and have performed well in their positions.

The officials, entrusted with the task of strengthening the grassroots CPC organization, will be sent mainly to underdeveloped areas to serve as village chiefs.

They will be assisted by local village committees, poverty relief offices and agricultural bureaus to master rural working principles, and get along with local residents.

The circular called on the officials to bear a sense of responsibility and make solid contributions to the villages.

They will remain in place for one to three years, and will focus on solving the most urgent local issues.