How China plans to become a global force in higher education

China is home to roughly 20% of the world’s population. It contributes about 14% of global economic output. The size and interconnectedness of its economic activities mean that the knock-on effects are felt far and wide.

 China having established itself as primary engine of growth for international higher education, leading the way in student recruitment, English and Chinese language programmes, transnational education and short-term study abroad.

The country is making itself more attractive to international students. In 2014, there were almost 380,000 international students from more than 200 countries studying at universities in China. Nearly 35% of those students were based in either Beijing or Shanghai, and the majority – 56% – were on short-term, non-degree programmes, learning Chinese language and culture.

The Chinese ministry of education launched the Study in China plan in 2010, which aims to attract 500,000 students by 2020. The challenge is to make China an attractive destination for degree-seeking international students. Several policy initiatives are in the works, including bilateral partnerships (such as the recent UK-China initiative), additional scholarships for one-year language preparation courses, more programmes in English, and easier access to the job market for international students. My concern is what is NUC doing to make Nigerian Universities attractive and perhaps increase our Educational tourism?