The US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, has urged American universities to recruit more Indian students for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. Campbell, who is the second-ranked US diplomat, highlighted India’s increasing importance as a security partner for the United States. His statement comes amidst escalating tensions with China, particularly on the trade front.
Campbell expressed concerns about Chinese students’ access to sensitive technology fields, citing security risks. He suggested that Chinese students should be encouraged to pursue humanities and social sciences instead. This policy shift reflects a growing anxiety about potential intellectual property theft and the transfer of advanced technologies to China.
The US diplomat acknowledged that the country needs to attract more international students in STEM fields due to a shortage of American graduates. However, he explicitly advocated for prioritizing Indian students, emphasizing their role as valuable security partners. This strategic move underscores the US’s efforts to build stronger alliances and counter Chinese influence.
Chinese students have historically constituted the largest group of international students in the United States, reaching almost 290,000 in the 2022-23 academic year. The recent concerns about intellectual property theft have led some academics and civil society leaders to express apprehension about the impact on scientific collaboration between the two nations.
Campbell reassured the Council on Foreign Relations that US universities have been cautious in supporting Chinese students’ higher education. However, he also stated that the US is prepared to restrict access to certain programs, especially those related to advanced technologies. This move signifies a shift in the US’s approach towards Chinese students, driven by geopolitical considerations and the escalating competition for technological dominance.
