In recent years, China’s university entrance exam, known as the Gaokao, has come under scrutiny for allegedly promoting a cult of personality surrounding President Xi Jinping. Critics argue that the exam, which includes questions about Xi’s policies and quotes from his speeches, is an attempt to further solidify his influence and consolidate power. However, a closer examination reveals a more nuanced picture.

It is undeniable that Xi Jinping holds considerable power in China and has pursued policies that have had a significant impact on the country. Therefore, it is not surprising that his ideas and speeches find their way into the Gaokao. But does this necessarily constitute the promotion of a cult of personality?

Supporters of the exam argue that including questions about Xi’s policies and quotes serves a purpose beyond personal adulation. They argue that it is essential for Chinese students to understand their country’s current political landscape and the policies implemented by their government. By integrating these questions into the Gaokao, the education system aims to foster a sense of national unity and cultivate a politically engaged citizenry.

China, with its vast population and diverse regional cultures, has long sought ways to foster a cohesive national identity. The inclusion of questions related to Xi Jinping’s policies and speeches could be seen as an attempt to achieve this goal. By encouraging students to critically analyze and understand their leader’s vision, the exam aims to promote a shared understanding of national goals and aspirations.

However, critics maintain that the Gaokao should be solely focused on assessing students’ academic abilities, rather than delving into political matters. They argue that by intermixing political questions with academic subjects, the exam risks becoming a tool for political indoctrination and stifling critical thinking.

To address these concerns, it is crucial to ensure that the Gaokao remains a fair and balanced assessment of students’ knowledge and skills. Transparency in question selection and the inclusion of a diverse range of topics can help prevent the exam from devolving into a one-sided propaganda tool.

As journalists, it is our responsibility to critically analyze and objectively report on issues such as the Gaokao and its impact on Chinese society. While some may see the inclusion of questions related to Xi Jinping as promoting a cult of personality, it is essential to consider alternative perspectives. The exam can be seen as a way to foster national unity and political engagement among Chinese youth.

However, as with any system, vigilance is necessary to ensure that the Gaokao remains free from undue political influence. Transparency, diverse question selection, and an emphasis on critical thinking will help safeguard the integrity of the exam and maintain its purpose as an impartial assessment of students’ abilities.

Ultimately, it is up to the Chinese people and their educational institutions to strike a delicate balance between promoting political awareness and preserving the integrity of academic evaluation. As observers, we should strive to understand the complexities of the Gaokao and its role within Chinese society, avoiding simplistic narratives that may overshadow the nuances of this important examination system.

In the pursuit of truth and accuracy, journalists must continue to examine and scrutinize the impact of the Gaokao and other educational practices, while remaining committed to the principles of objectivity and impartiality that lie at the heart of responsible journalism.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication or OpenAI.