In China, authorities plan to make most residents in Beijing, from hairdressers to policemen and civil servants, learn English under a drive to convert the Chinese capital into a world city. <br/><br/>State media today said, the government programme — first launched in 2002 in preparation for the Beijing Olympics and recently renewed — calls for all kindergartens in the city to introduce English courses within five years. <br/><br/>A minimum of 60 percent of shop assistants, receptionists and hairdressers under 40 and 80 per cent of police officers are will be required to pass English tests by 2015. The programme aims to bring greater convenience to foreigners working or studying in the capital and enhance international relations and cooperation.