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Ding Xuexiang Speaks at 2025 World Digital Education Conference

On May 14, 2025, Ding Xuexiang, a prominent member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council, officially opened the 2025 World Conference on Digital Education in Wuhan. His attendance was marked by a keynote speech where he emphasized China's commitment to advancing digital education.

In his address, Ding highlighted the significance the Chinese government places on the development of digital education as a strategic priority. He referenced President Xi Jinping's directives on the necessity of implementing a national education digitization strategy, which aims to cultivate a learning society and foster a diverse range of talents necessary for China's modernization goals.

Ding Xuexiang articulated that China is progressing rapidly in establishing itself as an educational powerhouse, focusing on transforming it through digital means. He outlined plans to promote a more equitable, high-quality, and intelligent educational framework that emphasizes lifelong learning and plays a crucial role in building a modern socialist state.

In discussing the integration of digital technology into education, Ding stressed the need for international cooperation in this realm. He called for a collective effort to accelerate the 'Global Digital Compact' and achieve the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing the importance of education in sustainable development.

Ding proposed four main suggestions for advancing digital education globally. Firstly, he suggested the establishment of a high-level international cooperative system to enhance the exchange of digital education strategies and policies across nations, while expanding the World Digital Education Alliance's membership.

Secondly, he urged for the empowerment of education through digital technology, advocating for collaborative research on educational technologies and the creation of tailored digital education products and services to meet diverse needs.

The third suggestion called for inclusive sharing of digital education achievements, aiming to improve digital infrastructure access, especially for developing countries, thereby bridging the digital education gap. He emphasized the importance of providing support and training for talent in these nations.

Lastly, Ding highlighted the importance of ensuring ethical standards and security in digital education. He urged for strict governance over digital education practices and tools to ensure their orderly development, promoting the essence of technology serving the greater good.

Among the attendees at the conference was Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, Han Chunnarok, who also delivered a speech. Before the conference proceedings, Ding visited the Education Digitization Achievements Exhibition, engaging with various exhibitors.

The theme of the 2025 World Digital Education Conference, 'Education Development and Transformation: The Intelligent Era,' attracted over 600 participants, including officials from around the world, leaders from international organizations, and experts in education.