Several leading universities in China have revealed plans to increase their undergraduate enrolment, focusing on what they describe as 'national strategic needs' and fostering talent in fields like artificial intelligence (AI).
These announcements follow the launch of AI courses by Chinese universities in February, inspired by the AI startup DeepSeek, which has gained significant attention.
DeepSeek's development of AI models comparable to the most advanced in the U.S., but at a fraction of the cost, has been called China's 'Sputnik moment'.
Analysts say that DeepSeek's success, almost entirely staffed by researchers from elite domestic universities, highlights how Beijing's investment in building a large homegrown STEM talent pool and recent U.S. restrictions on Chinese student visas have allowed China to catch up on AI.
Peking University said on Saturday that it would add 150 undergraduate spots in 2025 to focus on areas of "national strategic importance", fundamental disciplines and "emerging frontier fields".
They would mainly be in information science and technology, engineering, and clinical medicine.
Renmin University said on Saturday that it would add more than 100 places in areas such as AI to improve innovation.
The expansion is closely tied to China’s goal of becoming a 'powerful education nation' and its emphasis on nurturing talent in the digital age, according to reports.
Shanghai Jiao Tong University will create 150 new positions focused on 'cutting-edge technologies' and emerging industries in urgent need of talent, including AI, integrated circuits, biomedicine, healthcare, and new energy.
In January, China launched its first national action plan aimed at building a 'strong education nation' by 2035. The plan focuses on coordinating educational development, enhancing innovation efficiency, and strengthening the nation.
In December, education authorities announced the introduction of AI education in primary and secondary schools to foster creativity, scientific curiosity, and digital skills in students.
