THE pressure is on across China as about 10 million students take the annual two-day National College Entrance Examinations, otherwise known as the gaokao, a make-or-break exam that decides whether young people get into the universities of their choice.

    This year’s exam-sitters got a special treat in the form of a morale boost from legendary British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, who sent his encouragement via Weibo, the Chinese Twitter-like site, Monday, a day before the big test.

    In his post in both English and Chinese, Hawking wrote to over 4 million of his followers:

    “As many of you prepare to take the National Higher Education Entrance Examination, I want to wish you, the next generation of scientific minds, success in your academic endeavors. This culmination of your hard work marks just the beginning of your very bright futures.

    Growing up, my parents placed a high value on education and I am grateful for the limitless opportunities provided by my studies. Whether you aim to be a doctor, teacher, scientist, musician, engineer, or a writer — be fearless in the pursuit of your aspirations. You are the next generation of big thinkers and thought leaders that will shape the future for generations to come.”

    Hawking’s post racked up over 412,000 likes at time of publication, as well as 57,000 comments from appreciative fans. Professor Hawking made waves in April earlier this year when he opened his Weibo account and amassed over 1 million followers in just six hours.

    Many netizens commented they were “inspired and encouraged” and “filled with energy” by the famous physicist.

    “With your blessing, my IQ gets higher,” wrote one Weibo user.

    “A lot of students see you as a role model, including me. Thanks for your words,” wrote another.

    One joked that “the whole universe is cheering for gaokao students.”

    Some 9.4 million students will sit the gaokao this year, which will end today, according to China’s Ministry of Education.

    The gaokao is held every year over two days in June and is the primary way, in which Chinese students test into college. Unfortunately, because of the sheer number of students competing for places at the country’s top universities, the amount of pressure surrounding the nine-hour exam is huge, resulting in children spending countless hours throughout their final year at high school cramming for the exam.(SD-Agencies)