Chinese Universities Embrace DeepSeek AI to Drive Innovation and Growth

Universities across China have introduced artificial intelligence (AI) courses this month featuring DeepSeek, an AI breakthrough from the Hangzhou-based startup that has been hailed as China’s “Sputnik moment.” The development has attracted global attention, with experts comparing DeepSeek’s models—DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1—to the most advanced AI technologies from OpenAI and Meta.

This initiative aligns with China’s push to strengthen scientific and technological innovation in its educational institutions, fostering new growth opportunities for the world’s second-largest economy.

Shenzhen University in Guangdong province announced that its new AI course, centered around DeepSeek, will not only cover core technologies but also address crucial issues such as security, privacy, and ethical considerations. The university aims to strike a balance between innovation and ethical responsibility.

Similarly, Zhejiang University began offering specialized DeepSeek courses in February, while Shanghai Jiao Tong University has incorporated DeepSeek into its AI learning tools. Renmin University of China has also integrated DeepSeek into various fields, enhancing teaching, research, and administrative operations.

China’s commitment to advancing education is underscored by its first national action plan, unveiled in January, which aims to build a “strong education nation” by 2035. The plan aspires to establish a world-class education system with high accessibility and quality standards.

Highlighting DeepSeek’s growing influence, the company’s founder, Liang Wenfeng, recently attended a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping and leading figures from China’s tech industry, including representatives from Alibaba.