美媒：争夺非洲领导地位，中国已悄然战胜美国

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights a significant shift in the preferences of African students regarding higher education, with many now favoring China over the United States due to restrictive visa policies and more favorable educational opportunities in China [1][5]. Group 1: Trends in African Student Preferences - Over the past decade, African students have increasingly chosen to study in China instead of traditional Western destinations like the US and UK, driven by factors such as government scholarships, competitive tuition fees, and efficient visa policies [1][2]. - In 2018, more than 81,000 African students were enrolled in Chinese universities, doubling the number from 2013, while the number of African students in the US was only 55,000 in 2023 [2][6]. Group 2: Impact of US Visa Policies - The Trump administration's visa restrictions have led to a significant number of African student visa applications being denied, with over 28,000 applications rejected in 2022 alone [4][5]. - New measures by the US government, including social media scrutiny for student visa applicants, are expected to further deter international students from choosing the US for their education [5][6]. Group 3: Educational and Cultural Exchange - Graduates from Chinese universities are increasingly taking roles in African governments, supporting Chinese enterprises in Africa, and promoting cultural exchange through language and cuisine [1][6]. - The article notes that many African students view their education in China as a transformative experience, fostering a sense of pan-African unity and cultural identity [8][9]. Group 4: Future Prospects - The growing number of African students in China is seen as a win-win situation for both China and Africa, as it addresses the educational needs of Africa while enhancing China's influence on the continent [2][6]. - Initiatives by African graduates, such as teaching Chinese language and culture back in their home countries, are contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of Chinese education [10][12].