On August 5, 2025, the State Council Information Office held a press conference in Beijing to discuss the social and economic development of the Xizang Autonomous Region on the 60th anniversary of its founding.
During the press conference, Gama Cedain, chairman of the people's government of Xizang, addressed inquiries regarding media reports about the Tibetan language's status in education. He clarified that the adjustment of subjects in the college entrance examination, or gaokao, did not signify the removal of the Tibetan language from the curriculum.
Gama Cedain emphasized that Tibetan continues to be a core academic subject in primary and secondary schools throughout Xizang and other Tibetan-inhabited areas. The curriculum for the Tibetan language at the basic education level remains unchanged.
He further explained that Xizang implemented a comprehensive reform of the national college entrance examination system in 2024, aligning with reforms adopted by other regions across China since 2014. This reform aims to address the overemphasis on test scores and university admissions, promoting student development and social equity.
Under the new system, Xizang follows a unified examination system with standardized tests in Chinese, mathematics, and a foreign language. Students can choose from subjects including political science, history, geography, physics, chemistry, and biology.
Students of Tibetan ethnicity can still apply to Tibetan-language programs at regular universities by taking a Tibetan language exam administered by the Xizang Autonomous Region. This approach aims to ensure fair access to quality education for all ethnic groups, enhance minority students' academic capabilities, and provide more opportunities for higher education.
The adjustment of gaokao subjects in Xizang does not mean the removal of Tibetan language courses. Tibetan remains a core academic subject in primary and secondary schools in Xizang and other Tibetan-inhabited areas. The Tibetan language curriculum in basic education remains unchanged. Its implementation is held to the same rigorous standards as other subjects in terms of curriculum planning, teaching norms, and instructional methods. Tibetan is also included in academic performance evaluations at the junior and senior high school levels.
6 Comments
Donatello
Tibetan culture and language should be prioritized, not just included as a checkbox in a broader education reform. It's time for real change.
Raphael
Changing the gaokao system is a big step that could benefit many students in the long run. I’m hopeful about these reforms.
Leonardo
It's encouraging to see a focus on rigorous standards across all subjects, including Tibetan. That shows respect for all languages and cultures.
anubis
Why are we still relying on a gaokao system that many say is outdated and competitive to the detriment of students' well-being?
paracelsus
The move to a unified examination system seems more like a way to erase cultural identities rather than educate.
BuggaBoom
A standardized exam sounds like more pressure for Tibetan students. Instead of promoting equity, it could widen the gap.