Illustration: Chen Xia/Global Times
In recent days, a series of social media posts by Associate Professor Li Zhi from Peking University has sparked heated debate on whether universities, particularly esteemed institutions like Peking University and Tsinghua University, should open their campuses to the broader public.
Li argued against the current practice of requiring identity check to enter university premises and emphasized the inconvenience it poses to students and staff. Ensuing discussions have revealed divided public opinion on the matter.
While some netizens advocated for greater openness, saying that universities should broaden their access to members of society, others expressed concerns about potential disruptions to campus order and safety. A closer look at the policies of several universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, and Xi'an Jiaotong University, reveals varying degrees of openness, with restrictions on visiting times and mandatory reservations.
Starting this summer, Peking University and Tsinghua University began gradually reopening their campuses, but access was limited to weekends, public holidays and pre-approved reservations with specified conditions.
On the other hand, universities like Lanzhou University, Fudan University and Zhejiang University allow external visitors with reservations, while universities like Sichuan University and Harbin Institute of Technology have taken a bold step by fully opening their gates without the need for reservations.
Universities are public resources that should be accessible to a wider population, fostering mutual understanding and creating opportunities for continuous learning. The sentiment for greater openness extends beyond the online discourse.
The implementation of stringent security measures has also led to increased friction between students and security personnel, according to Li, who also argues that universities should focus on more targeted security measures within the campus rather than restricting access at the entrances.
The strict requirement has even led to scalpers offering entrance to prestigious universities. Officially, universities do not recommend visitors "buy" their way in through scalpers, as their prices can reach triple digits.
The closed management of university campuses served as a temporary measure during the pandemic. While such measures undoubtedly reduced risks and enhanced safety, prolonged campus closures may pose obstacles to research, teaching, humanistic exchange, and social engagement.
For both faculty and students, life, research, and social interactions necessitate integration with society. Particularly, university students, being adults, benefit from immersing themselves in social dynamics and adapting to real-world scenarios. On the other side, the public also harbors a desire to connect with universities and explore campus life.
During summer vacation, for instance, parents often wish to take their children to universities for educational visits. Many university campuses have become sought-after tourist destinations. Moreover, for a city, universities play a crucial role in leading technological innovation, showcasing advanced culture, and providing essential public services.
The multifaceted functions of a university extend far beyond the confines of a closed campus, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that aligns with the broader social context.
Public opinions on the matter are diverse, reflecting the complex balance universities must strike between maintaining security and embracing openness. But the concerns about safety should not hinder the opening of campuses.
Universities, being hubs of higher education, should contribute to the public good by engaging with and enriching the community.
Universities, often situated within urban landscapes, are integral parts of cities and should contribute to the vitality of their surroundings. Open campuses encourage citizens to stroll through university grounds, fostering a connection between the academic world and the broader community.
Concerns about safety and order require thoughtful consideration and strategic management. For sure, a closed campus might be the easiest way to maintain order, but it will significantly limit the social influence universities can have.
The principle of maintaining a balance between accessibility and functionality is paramount, with due consideration given to safeguarding the normal working and learning order for both faculty and students. The commitment to social service should not compromise the core mission of universities but rather enhance their engagement with the community, contributing to a symbiotic relationship between academia and society.
The author is a reporter with the Global Times.
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