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Shenzhen University of Science and Technology to Phase Out College English: AI Can Translate, But Not Teach Humility

AI Takes Over Translation, But Not Human Connection

Shenzhen University of Science and Technology is shaking up traditional language education. Starting with students admitted in 2026, the university will phase out compulsory college English courses and introduce new cross-cultural communication classes instead. The announcement, made by provost Zhao Wei (former president of the University of Macau), has sparked widespread discussion.

Zhao Wei didn't mince words: "AI tools can now easily handle the rote memorization and translation tasks that used to fill English classes. But they can never teach students how to communicate deeply across cultures—how to be neither arrogant nor submissive." His point cuts to the heart of the reform: when language becomes a tool AI can manage, education must shift from teaching knowledge to building skills.

From Grammar to Perspective

The new curriculum won't focus on grammar drills or vocabulary lists. Instead, it aims to help students understand the core values of both Eastern and Western cultures. The goal is to develop their "perspective," social etiquette, and life skills—so they can interact confidently and politely with people from different backgrounds.

In other words, future English classes won't teach "how to speak English." They'll teach "how to use English to become a person with a broad perspective." It's a fundamental rethinking of what language education should be in the age of AI.

A Nationwide Trend

Shenzhen University of Science and Technology isn't alone. Several universities across China are rethinking their foreign language requirements. In May 2026, Zhejiang Normal University announced it would reduce English credit hours from 8 to 6 and implement a flexible tiered teaching model. These changes reflect a growing consensus: language education needs to evolve.

Key Points

  • Shenzhen University of Science and Technology will phase out compulsory college English, replacing it with cross-cultural communication courses.
  • Provost Zhao Wei argues AI can handle translation but not teach intercultural skills like humility and perspective.
  • The new curriculum focuses on understanding Eastern and Western cultures, not grammar.
  • Other universities, like Zhejiang Normal University, are also reducing English credit hours and adopting tiered teaching.