2035 and Beyond: Free University Education as the Cornerstone of China’s Growth
- Xuemei Pal
- D.O.C Supplements - Trending News
- China
- East Asia
- January 21, 2025

Image Credit, Phong Bùi Nam
China has unveiled an ambitious educational blueprint aimed at transforming its already formidable academic system by 2035. As one of the most highly educated populations globally, with a majority of its citizens completing undergraduate degrees, the nation is setting its sights on further elevating its academic standing. Known for producing the largest number of academic research papers worldwide, it plans to build on this strength by expanding access to free education, increasing enrollment in high-quality undergraduate programs, and significantly growing postgraduate opportunities.
The plan also emphasizes the development of advanced research universities while encouraging high-level foreign institutions, particularly in science and engineering, to establish programs within its borders. This move aims to foster global talent and promote international academic collaboration, strengthening ties between the nation’s scholars and the world. Expanding youth exchanges is also a priority, reflecting a focus on cultivating mutual understanding and cooperation with other countries.
Professor Wang Zhengxu from the School of Public Administration, Zhejiang University notes that the timing of this initiative aligns with the nation’s trajectory of educational progress over the past 70 years. The plan addresses the dual needs of adapting academic programs to meet evolving technological and industrial demands and preparing a skilled workforce for an increasingly sophisticated manufacturing sector. With the nation as the world’s largest manufacturing hub, vocational and technical education will be pivotal in training specialists in advanced fields like electronics and computational integration.
The strategy calls for a nuanced approach to higher education, balancing broad access with specialized excellence. Expanding enrollment at universities and technical colleges will provide opportunities for more students, while differentiated institutions will cater to diverse needs. Research-oriented universities will drive innovation, while vocational programs will equip workers with the practical skills required to maintain the nation’s industrial dominance.
By prioritizing free education and investing in lifelong learning, the nation is addressing both domestic and global challenges. As countries worldwide contend with rising student debt and accessibility issues, this initiative offers a model for how education can be leveraged to drive progress and foster resilience in a changing world.