China’s higher education was probably among the most dynamic sectors in the world during the past two or three decades, dramatically changing the pattern of higher education in the world. However, the higher education enterprises in China have become increasingly unpopular due to poor learning experiences, disappointing job opportunities, moral and ethical scandals, and a variety of other reasons. We expect the budget of higher education to continue to grow in years to come, but can we further improve the quality of higher education and address the concern of the public? Alternatively, can we identify the problems deeply rooted in the system and turn it around to pursue excellence? These are the challenges for Chinese universities and the opportunities as well.

--

Lin Jianhua is a Chinese chemist who served as President of Peking University from 2015 to 2018. Previously he was President of Chongqing University from December 2010 to June 2013, and President of Zhejiang University between June 2013 to February 2015.