Amid growing national security concerns, several universities in the United States have opted to discontinue collaborative academic ventures with Chinese institutions. This move is largely influenced by a recent House committee report citing potential threats to U.S. security.
Among the institutions affected is Northern Arizona University (NAU), which ended its dual degree program in electrical engineering with Chongqing University, a decision applauded by Republican Congressman Eli Crane. Crane mentioned that NAU was named in a report co-authored by the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party.
“I applaud Northern Arizona University for taking this course of action,” Crane stated. He further noted that the university has stopped recruiting new students, began winding down the program, and is in the process of terminating the contract. Crane emphasized the bipartisan nature of addressing such national security concerns.
In a formal statement, NAU expressed that it “continuously reviews all international partnerships to ensure they align with federal guidance, institutional priorities, and the best interests of students and faculty.” The university confirmed its decision to phase out the 3+1 program with Chongqing University, highlighting that this decision was made after a thorough evaluation of national security implications.
The cessation of this program aligns with similar actions by other institutions. For instance, the University of Arizona recently closed four tech microcampuses in China. “We’ve communicated directly with those affected and are working with enrolled students to help them continue their education,” stated spokesman Mitch Zak.
According to the report, other universities like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech have also terminated their partnerships with Chinese institutions, although over 50 partnerships remain active and are considered potential security risks.
NAU had originally announced its collaboration with Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications in 2014, intending to offer affordable western education to Chinese students. However, the recent House committee report identified this partnership as high-risk, with concerns about military uses or espionage.
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