Renowned China university apologises for mini-film depicting career man, family-focused woman

One of China’s most prestigious universities, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), has issued a public apology and withdrawn a mini-film it released to celebrate its 130th anniversary. The video, titled "No 800 of Dongchuan Road," was met with widespread criticism for allegedly perpetuating gender stereotypes and bias. Released on March 31, the film was intended to mark the university’s upcoming birthday, which falls on April 6, the anniversary of its founding in 1896.

SJTU was established by Sheng Xuanhuai, a prominent minister and entrepreneur in the late Qing dynasty (1636–1912). Over the years, the university has grown into a leading academic institution, renowned for its contributions to fields such as engineering, economics, and management. However, the recent mini-film has cast a shadow over these achievements, sparking a debate about the portrayal of gender roles in Chinese society.

The video, which was named after the address of the university’s Minhang campus, depicted a career-oriented man and a family-focused woman. Critics argued that the film reinforced traditional gender norms, suggesting that a woman’s primary role should be at home, while a man’s ambition is celebrated. This portrayal drew sharp criticism from social media users and activists, who called for the university to address the issue and take responsibility for the content.

In response to the backlash, SJTU’s administration quickly issued an apology, stating that the university deeply regrets any offense caused by the mini-film. The university emphasized its commitment to gender equality and pledged to enhance its efforts to promote a more inclusive and equitable environment. SJTU also announced that it would conduct a thorough review of its content creation processes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The withdrawal of the mini-film and the university’s apology highlight the growing awareness and sensitivity around gender issues in China. While the video was intended to celebrate the institution’s history and achievements, it inadvertently touched on a sensitive topic that has been the focus of ongoing debates and reforms in the country.

The reaction to the mini-film also underscores the power of social media in shaping public opinion and holding institutions accountable. In the digital age, a single piece of content can quickly gain widespread attention and spark a broader conversation about societal norms and values. For SJTU, this serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of the messages conveyed through its promotional materials and the potential impact they can have on its reputation and the perceptions of its community.

As the university moves forward from this incident, it will be crucial for SJTU to demonstrate genuine commitment to addressing gender equality. This may involve revising its content policies, providing training for staff on inclusive communication, and fostering an environment that values diversity and respects all individuals, regardless of gender.

The withdrawal of the mini-film and the subsequent apology from SJTU mark a significant moment in China’s ongoing journey toward gender equality. While the video itself may have been a minor production, its impact serves as a powerful reminder of the need for institutions to be vigilant and proactive in challenging and dismantling gender biases in all aspects of society.