US Republicans Target China Scholarship Program, Raising Concerns of Academic Decoupling

House Republicans have initiated a campaign against the China Scholarship Council (CSC), a long-standing educational program, accusing it of being a tool for technology transfer. This move, framed under the guise of national security, is seen as an attempt to hinder China's development through academic decoupling.

The House Select Committee on China, led by Republican Rep. John Moolenaar, sent letters to several American universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of Notre Dame. The committee labeled the CSC, a Chinese government-funded scholarship program, as a "nefarious mechanism." Lawmakers demanded records related to the program, alleging it supports China's military and scientific growth.

This action reflects a broader trend of restricting Chinese students in specific fields. The US has increased scrutiny of Chinese students, with some officials stating they would revoke visas from those studying in "critical fields." This follows previous restrictions on visas for students affiliated with China's "military-civil fusion strategy."

The University of California system has emphasized its commitment to global collaboration, highlighting the importance of international students and academic partnerships for scientific progress and economic growth. However, some universities, like Dartmouth and Notre Dame, are already phasing out their CSC partnerships.

Experts argue that these actions are counterproductive, potentially harming the US's own scientific competitiveness and global academic leadership. The US risks losing a vital talent pipeline by alienating Chinese scholars who contribute to American innovation.

The accusations against the CSC are part of a larger effort to limit educational ties between the US and China. Some US politicians have pressured universities to cut collaborations with Chinese institutions. This anti-China rhetoric is not limited to Republicans, indicating a broader decline in enthusiasm within the US government for genuine educational engagement.

Experts emphasize that the US is treating educational exchanges as a political weapon. They suggest that Washington should recognize the mutual benefits of cross-border education, warning that fear-driven policies may lead to America becoming less innovative and increasingly isolated.