Le Monde: The Age of AI: Chinese Universities Undergo Large-Scale Curriculum Reforms — Foreign Language Programs Must "Embrace STEM"

Friday, Le Monde focused on the new wave of large-scale curriculum reforms currently taking place in Chinese universities amid the era of artificial intelligence. The publication noted that in response to China's government-led economic priorities centered on AI, as well as the need to ensure graduates remain competitive in the job market, universities across the country are launching a sweeping reform of academic programs. Traditional disciplines—especially foreign language programs—must deeply integrate with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields if they wish to survive.

Le Monde stated that Chinese universities are currently comprehensively restructuring their undergraduate and postgraduate education systems. At the heart of this reform lies the strategic priority set by China’s “15th Five-Year Plan” (2026–2030), which centers on artificial intelligence. The government aims to widely apply AI technologies across all sectors of the real economy.

Data from China’s Ministry of Education shows that between 2021 and 2025, over 12,200 outdated undergraduate programs nationwide were canceled or suspended, while 10,200 new programs were introduced. In other words, nearly one-third of all university programs in China have already been restructured—and this trend continues to accelerate.

The canceled programs primarily included those in arts, humanities and social sciences, foreign languages, and management. Meanwhile, universities across the country are rapidly introducing emerging disciplines such as robotics, embodied AI (Embodied AI), semiconductors, and agricultural drones.

The article cites the case of Zhang Dibo, a graduate of Renmin University’s finance program. As the first in his family to attend university, Zhang originally hoped to join an internet finance company. However, due to corporate layoffs and the replacement of basic financial tasks by AI, he decided to pursue a master’s degree in digital economy. He aims to enhance his competitiveness by studying interdisciplinary knowledge spanning finance, artificial intelligence, law, and computer science. Similarly, institutions like Tongji University are gradually establishing comparable programs aimed at cultivating high-level, multidisciplinary talents to support the development of intelligent finance.

Foreign Language Programs Must "Embrace STEM"

China Media University has recently eliminated five art-related programs in one move—including photography, comics, new media art, visual communication design, and fashion design. The university also canceled six economics and management programs, two STEM programs, and three humanities programs, including translation.

University officials argue that with the rapid advancement of AI-powered translation tools, offering a four-year standalone translation program for a single language is no longer aligned with contemporary demands. Educational resources should instead be redirected toward urgently needed emerging fields.

Nevertheless, this does not mean foreign language education has lost its value. Yang Stoeessel, a French teacher at Beijing Language and Culture University, pointed out that the basic translation market has largely been dominated by AI. However, high-level translation and specialized terminology research remain irreplaceable. Therefore, foreign language programs must "embrace STEM." The university’s French department has already begun collaborating with Beijing University of Chemical Technology to launch a dual-degree program combining "foreign language + technology," enabling students to develop both linguistic proficiency and foundational scientific literacy.

New Career Demands

The rise of artificial intelligence has also given birth to new career demands.

Ni, a doctoral candidate in developmental psychology at Renmin University, focuses her research on using AI to analyze public data related to adolescent mental health. She has not only learned Python programming but also mastered AI agent tools, leveraging digital technology to enhance her research capabilities.

Ni’s academic direction closely aligns with current labor market needs. According to recent regulations issued by the Chinese government, starting July 15, developers of all AI-based virtual companions targeting children must comply with new regulatory requirements to prevent minors from forming emotional dependencies on AI systems.

Yet even with strong technical qualifications, Ni remains concerned about how quickly AI technology is evolving—fearing her skills may become obsolete in the near future. Concerned about job stability, she ultimately decided to apply for civil service positions. In 2026, the national civil service examination drew 3.72 million applicants, setting a new historical record and reflecting the ongoing severity of youth employment challenges in China.

Overall, this major restructuring of university programs in China reflects the profound impact of national industrial policy, innovation-driven strategies, and labor market dynamics on higher education. Universities aim to prepare graduates to meet the demands of new job roles in the age of artificial intelligence.

Source: rfi

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1869201923306496/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author