China Debates English Education Amid Rising Nationalism

A heated debate is raging in China over the future of English education. Fueled by rising youth unemployment, the advancement of AI translation, and a growing sentiment against foreign influence, calls to downgrade or even abolish English in schools and universities are gaining traction. Critics often invoke the ancient Chinese idiom "notching the boat to find a sword" (刻舟求剑), which describes a foolishly outdated approach to problem-solving. They argue that the decision to incorporate English into the mandatory curriculum 50 years ago, aimed at rapid educational strengthening and learning science and technology from abroad, is no longer relevant given China's changed circumstances. Scholar Xiang Ligang points out that many Chinese students spend 3,000 to 5,000 hours and at least 100,000 yuan on English education from primary school to university. He questions its worth, stating that 95 percent of English learners cannot communicate fluently, and 90 percent will never use it outside of exams. The advent of AI translation further bolsters this argument. Mathematics professor and online celebrity Tang Jiafeng has advocated for reducing English's weight in entrance exams, asserting that "the history of Chinese people worshipping foreign things and fawning on foreign countries should end." His views resonate with nationalist intellectuals and parents concerned about the burden of English learning, which is challenging due to its different writing system and associated financial pressures. Conversely, figures like former Global Times editor Hu Xijin defend English's importance. Hu dismisses the notion that learning English equates to "foreign worship," arguing that English achieved its global status because the West led modernization for centuries. He acknowledges China's rising influence and increasing use of Chinese in scientific and economic discourse but stresses this is a long process. However, nationalist and leftist scholars reject Hu's claims, citing the industrial and commercial success of countries like Germany, France, and Japan, which achieved growth without widespread English fluency. They even blame English classes for hindering STEM talent development in China, arguing that difficult English exams disproportionately eliminate science and engineering students. The article cites the example of Unitree Robotics CEO Wang Xingxing, who nearly failed to enter university due to poor English but has since achieved success. This debate highlights China's ongoing efforts to balance globalization with national identity and the evolving role of education within this dynamic.