Have to say, the idea used to increase literacy rate is quite good, and would actually work on many occasion in any era (unless its somehow restricted by Religion and Culture).
Also, surprised that China had allowed women to work in official positions in the past (if the reference in this story is true and happened in reality), as long as they had sufficient literacy level.
Normally, around the world (as far as i know history), even literate women weren't easily allowed to work or even host an official position.