AI Revolution in Chinese Universities
In many Chinese university campuses, the use of artificial intelligence is no longer a topic of debate: it is a reality . According to a survey by the Mycos Institute, only 1% of teachers and students claimed they have never used generative tools. The remaining 99% do , with nearly 60% stating they use these tools frequently. This represents a notable shift from just two years prior when accessing ChatGPT required mirrors and VPNs, as universities now actively promote AI usage.
As noted by MIT Technology Review, this transition has been both rapid and strategic . Since 2024, the University of Zhejiang has made an introductory AI course mandatory for all students. Institutions like Fudan, Renmin, and Nanjing have also introduced cross-disciplinary courses to educate students from all fields, not just computer science or engineering.
Beijing Sets the Standard for AI Education
The emphasis is on the responsible use of AI, with internal guidelines, concrete examples, and recommendations specifying which tasks can benefit from generative models and where human insight must prevail. Interaction with AI is viewed as a vital skill , akin to other forms of technical literacy. McKinsey estimates that by 2030, China will require 6 million professionals equipped with AI expertise.
Universities across China are also developing unique courses aimed at promoting local alternatives to ChatGPT. Schools such as Shenzhen and Zhejiang have rolled out teaching programs focused on Depseek, a generative model that aims to become a national benchmark. Other institutions are preparing students for practical applications using Doubao, a chatbot developed by Baidu that has gained significant traction in academic settings.
In April 2025, the Chinese Ministry of Education issued national guidelines aimed at promoting critical thinking , digital fluency, and practical applications in primary and secondary education.
Meanwhile, Beijing has mandated AI instruction at all educational institutions in the city, from primary schools to high schools. These general directives have led to individualized plans at each university, resulting in the establishment of internal courses and specific regulations.
The AI Movement in Spain
On the other side of the globe, Spain is also making headway. Various universities have transitioned from mere discussions to taking concrete actions , introducing new degrees focused on AI, along with AI-based tutors that guide students without providing direct answers. The goal remains clear: to prepare professionals equipped to work with AI while maintaining critical thinking skills.
Let’s explore this further:
- USA : At Ohio University, AI training has been made mandatory for all first-year students. In California, initiatives like ChatGPT Edu are being launched in public universities to provide free access to generative models.
- Europe : The European Commission is advancing the Digital Education Action Plan 2021–2027, which includes ethical guidelines and teacher training. Universities such as Maastricht, Gothenburg, and Edinburgh have already adopted their own frameworks, while networks like Yerun and the US aim to harmonize criteria and share best practices.
Currently, decision-making remains largely decentralized, with each institution responsible for its approach. This flexibility offers various benefits and drawbacks compared to China’s more structured system.
Two distinct paths are emerging to address an undeniable fact: AI is here to stay, and mastering these tools will be crucial for future professionals. The ongoing challenge lies in how to effectively teach these skills, when to introduce them, and under what criteria they should be applied.
With the unmistakable rise of AI in educational settings around the world, the focus now shifts toward creating effective frameworks and policies that will ensure students are well-equipped for a future dominated by AI technologies. These educational initiatives not only aim to prepare candidates for the job market but also emphasize the importance of maintaining critical thinking amidst a landscape rapidly changing due to AI innovations.