China to incorporate ‘Xi Jinping Thought’ into national curriculum to ‘establish Marxist belief’ in youth

CHINA-POLITICS-PARTY-ANNIVERSARY
President Xi Jinping delivering a speech during the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China at Tiananmen Square on July 1
AFP via Getty Images
Michael Howie25 August 2021

China will incorporate “Xi Jinping Thought” into its national curriculum to help “establish Marxist belief” in the country’s youth, the education ministry has revealed.

The Ministry of Education said Chinese President Xi Jinping’s “thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era” would be taught from primary school level all the way to university.

The move is aimed at strengthening “resolve to listen to and follow the Party” and new teaching materials must “cultivate patriotic feelings”, according to new guidelines released by the ministry.

Since coming to power in 2012, President Xi has sought to strengthen the ruling Chinese Communist Party’s role in all areas of society, including its businesses, schools and cultural institutions.

“Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era” was formally enshrined in the country’s constitution in 2018. Mr Xi’s personal power has also been strengthened by the abolition of presidential term limits.

In a speech to mark the centenary of the Communist Party celebrated in July, Mr Xi vowed to “enhance” the Party’s leadership, uphold his own “core” leadership and strengthen the unity of the Chinese people.

“Xi Jinping Thought” has been introduced across universities since it was brought into the constitution.

According to the BBC, it has 14 main principles which emphasise Communist ideals. It also calls for “complete and deep reform” and “new developing ideas”, promises “harmonious living between man and nature” and emphasises “absolute authority of the party over the people’s army”.

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