The expulsion of a Liberian student from a Chinese college has sparked a debate on equal academic standards for domestic and international students. This incident reflects broader issues in the management of foreign students in China, emphasizing the need for adherence to strict educational norms.
A striking decline has been reported in the number of Americans studying in mainland China. According to the 2023 “Report on International Educational Exchange” by the Institute of International Education, only 211 students chose to pursue studies in mainland China during the 2021-2022 academic year, marking a substantial decrease from the over 11,000 students enrolled two years earlier.
This decline raises questions about the evolving relationship between the United States and China in the realm of academic exchange and international education.
Changing landscape
The landscape of international education, particularly between China and the US, has undergone significant changes in recent years. Developments ranging from policy shifts to changing academic environments have had profound impacts on the exchange of students and scholars between these two world powers.
Mainland China remains a primary source of international students in the US, despite increased scrutiny and challenges at US borders. The US remains a favored destination for Chinese students, with a significant number of visas issued annually.
The 2022-2023 academic year saw a decline in Chinese undergraduates in the US, while graduate student numbers rose slightly. Indian student enrollment in the US reached a record high, reflecting changing preferences and global educational trend
Academic standards
The expulsion of a Liberian student from Liuzhou Vocational and Technical College in southern China for missing classes has ignited a debate on the treatment of international students in China. This event underlines the strict adherence to academic standards applied equally to both Chinese and foreign students.
The Chinese media, particularly The Paper, a Shanghai-based digital newspaper, endorsed the college’s decision, underscoring the necessity for foreign students to comply with the same standards as their Chinese counterparts. This incident reflects broader issues in managing international students, as China’s Ministry of Education mandates stringent enforcement of attendance systems and reporting protocols.
Expanding educational horizons
China’s increasing role in global education is evident from the growing number of international students, peaking between 2009 and 2018. However, this influx has sparked controversies over perceived preferential treatment and disciplinary leniency for foreign students. High-profile incidents in Fuzhou and at Shandong University have intensified discussions on equal treatment and integration of international students into Chinese society. In a notable development, Zhou Xiaoping, a member of China’s top advisory body, proposed mandating a Chinese-language exam for foreigners working or studying in China, mirroring English proficiency tests in overseas universities.
US-China academic relations
The China Education Association for International Exchange and the US Institute of International Education’s pledge to renew academic collaborations signifies a positive step in US-China relations. This commitment, amidst geopolitical tensions and academic freedom concerns, aims to foster mutual exchanges through internships, summer schools, and research fellowships.
However, American university campuses in China confront challenges stemming from geopolitical shifts, academic freedom issues, and pandemic impacts. The US’s “China Initiative” has negatively influenced academic collaborations, exacerbating fear and potential talent loss. Despite these hurdles, institutions like Portland State University and Juilliard School are expanding their presence in China.
Broader implications
These developments in international education between China and the US reflect broader global trends. The decline in American students in mainland China, attributed to strict COVID-19 policies and a shift in study programs to Taiwan, signifies a changing landscape. Institutions are increasingly cautious about sending students to mainland China, with less than 30 percent planning such programs in the 2023-2024 academic year.
Additionally, the closure of international and private schools in China, due to regulatory changes and economic slowdown, indicates a transformation in the international education sector. The crackdown on private tutoring, aimed at reducing academic pressure and family expenses, has impacted privately run bilingual schools, which previously experienced rapid expansion.
The evolving landscape of international education in China, and the fluctuating dynamics of US-China academic relations, are reflective of broader geopolitical, societal, and economic factors. Despite the challenges, renewed commitments to academic collaboration offer hope for fostering inclusive and mutually beneficial partnerships. These partnerships are crucial for enhancing educational opportunities and strengthening overall bilateral relations, amidst the complexities of the global education sector.
