China converts 600 Vasities into Polytechnics to boost industry

By Samuel Ogunsona

China is set to transform at least half of its public universities into institutions of applied learning or polytechnics, focusing on training engineers, senior technicians, and highly skilled workers.

The decision, announced by Vice-Minister Lu Xin, aims to address the issue of university graduates competing for the same jobs and to ensure a new industrial revolution

“We want to reform our current education system, which has been struggling to provide high-quality talents with skills and knowledge that meet demand at the production frontline,” Lu said.

The move is expected to reduce the unemployment rate among university graduates, with vocational school graduates having a higher job placement rate and slightly higher average starting salary compared to university graduates.

“Science-related jobs are less attractive for Chinese youth compared with those more economically promising ones such as managerial positions in enterprises,” said Sun Hongyan, director of the China Youth and Children Research Centre’s childhood research institute.

The government plans to launch pilot programs this year, with 150 universities already signing up for the plan. A vocational entrance exam will also be introduced, allowing students to opt for a technical track instead of the traditional academic exam.

“Separating the gaokao into two tracks will pave the way for recruitment for the new dual-track higher education system,” academics said.