China further develops higher education

Source: CCTV.com | 03-26-2008 12:42

China will invest 10 billion yuan on creating around 1,000 key subjects between now and 2011 in the country's universities. This is the third phase of the "211 Project."

The project 211 means for the development of 100 key universities in the 21st century. The implementation of the project has been jointly carried out by China's Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance and the National Development and Reform Commission. It aims at concentrating resources to construct about 100 key higher education institutions and disciplines in the 21st century.

The major task of third phase of the project is the construction of key disciplines, including fundamentals like mathematics and applied science, which are in high demand for national development, and philosophical and social science concerning significant theoretical and practical issues.

The central governmental funds will remain the main source of funding for the project, together with money from government branches, local governments and universities. The third phase will still follow the "survival of the fittest" principle. High Education Institutions failing to meet the national standard will immediately be eliminated. Authorities say special support will be given to universities to employ outstanding scientists and talent, including teaching staff from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan regions.

The third portion work of the project will continue to place priority on normal universities. Two normal universities in western China have been added to the list of the "211 Project".

Guo Xinli, deputy director of Academic Degree Committee Office, said, "We are looking forward to the construction of key disciplines that are relevant to fundamental education in these normal universities."

The Ministry of Education is also making a large-scale assessment on the quality of doctoral candidates, and expect to know the results in six months.

Editor:Zhang Ning