What makes a university truly great? For Harvard’s Peter K. Bol, it’s not just Ivy League prestige—it’s about balancing teaching passion and groundbreaking research. In a candid interview with CGTN, the award-winning sinologist shared insights into academia’s evolving role amid political and social headwinds. 🎓
Teaching vs. Research? Why Not Both?
Professor Bol, a leading voice in East Asian studies, praised Harvard’s dual focus on mentoring students and advancing scholarship. "The joy of seeing a student’s ‘aha!’ moment is universal," he said, but added that Harvard’s research-driven environment fuels innovation critical to fields like medicine and tech. 🔬💡
Challenges: Politics, Perception, and Purpose
With U.S. universities facing scrutiny over funding, immigration policies, and public trust, Bol warned of a "growing hostility toward liberal education" that could weaken global collaboration. His comments follow a recent federal court ruling blocking Trump-era visa restrictions targeting international students at Harvard—a case highlighting academia’s high-stakes battles. ⚖️🌍
Lessons From 1636
But Bol remains optimistic, citing Harvard’s 388-year history: "Institutions endure by adapting while staying true to their mission." For young scholars and students worldwide, his message is clear: Education’s power lies in bridging divides—one classroom at a time. ✨
