China’s first college entrance exam room for HIV-positive students in the city of Linfen has drawn much public attention, triggering a heated debate among netizens.

Sixteen students from the Green Harbor Red-Ribbon School will test their knowledge in this very room. According to Principal Guo Xiaoping, it’s the first time for the school’s students to take the National Higher Education Entrance Examination.

The issue became controversial after being reported by the media. Some argue the very existence of the exam room is a form of discrimination against HIV-positive students.

The independent exam room was set up because taking the exams with 16 HIV-positive students could alarm some of the other students, the local educational department explained.

Some worry that identifying the HIV-positive students would negatively impact their chances to apply for or enroll in college. But the local educational department said they would consult with the health department about specific application strategies for these students.

According to the AIDS Prevention and Control regulations issued by the State Council, people with HIV/AIDS or their families cannot be discriminated against, and enjoy the same rights as anyone else.