China’s White Paper on Smart Education was officially released on May 16 at the 2025 World Digital Education Conference, marking the first time the nation has published a dedicated strategy document under the “smart education” banner. The white paper offers a comprehensive overview of China’s digital education evolution, development strategy, practical implementation, and future outlook—framing a blueprint for education transformation in the era of intelligent technology.
Structured around four key sections—development trajectory, strategic framework, applied practices, and forward-looking vision—the document showcases the progress and achievements of China’s National Digital Education Strategy Action since its inception. It affirms that China is transitioning from a phase of digital adoption and transformation toward fully realizing smart education.
According to the white paper, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, digital education has become a national strategic priority. Efforts have focused on expanding digital infrastructure in schools, improving the supply of high-quality digital resources, and promoting large-scale, routine digital application. These initiatives have propelled China toward a modern education system designed for the Intelligent Age.
The white paper introduces the “3C” (connection, content, and cooperation) development philosophy, and the “3I” (integrated, intelligent, and international) approach as guiding principles. It highlights key initiatives such as strengthening the Smart Education of China (https://csmartedu.cn/) platform, launching AI-powered education programs, and deepening international cooperation in digital education.
Declaring 2025 as the inaugural year of smart education, the paper calls for setting new standards for talent development and opening new pathways for higher quality education. Embarking on a new stage of development, the country pledges to drive systemic change in education by establishing new standards and adopting new ways of teaching and learning. This commitment includes sharing its digital education model and solutions globally, contributing to a collective global future in smart education.
