44,000 Chinese Study Abroad Since 1978
About 44,000 Chinese have gone abroad to study since 1978, most of them with the intention of returning home to help build their nation, the official China Daily newspaper reported Friday.
Li Chengping, a spokesman for the State Education Commission, said China sent 36,000 students to study in 76 foreign countries on government subsidies between 1978 and 1985. More than 16,000 have finished their studies and returned to China, while the others are still in school, he said. Another 8,000 Chinese went abroad to study at their own expense, Li said. Most of them are still overseas completing their educations.
Despite reports that some Chinese officials fear an exodus of talent and skills, Li said it is Peking’s “firm decision” to continue sending students abroad.
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