Confidence in culture as the basis for the innovative practice of ideological and political education in colleges and universities in China

Abstract

In the context of globalization and ideological confrontation, the cultivation of cultural confidence among students acquires strategic significance for China, contributing to the preservation of national identity and socialist values. The concept of cultural confidence, proposed by Xi Jinping as one of the four confidences, implies a deep recognition of traditional, revolutionary, and socialist culture as the foundation of ideological and political education in higher education institutions. Traditional educational methods are losing effectiveness among the digital generation, requiring innovations to increase youth engagement. The aim of the study is to analyze ways of integrating cultural confidence into educational practice for modernizing the system that ensures ideological security and sustainable social development. The research is based on dialectical materialism, Xi Jinping's ideas, and Marxist theory. The materials include official CPC documents, curricula of leading universities, and academic publications by Chinese scholars. The methods applied are content analysis of regulatory acts, the hermeneutic method for interpreting concepts, comparative analysis of educational models, and case studies of practices in universities. It was revealed that innovations include enriching courses with elements of classical philosophy (Confucius, Laozi), interactive methods (debates, projects), digital technologies (online tours, applications), and the creation of a campus cultural environment (festivals, red tourism). This enhances student motivation by linking theory with life. The results highlight challenges: the risk of superficial integration, a shortage of qualified personnel, and the need to balance patriotism and globalism. Innovative practice fosters a holistic personality rooted in culture but requires further methodological development for the organic synthesis of traditions and socialism, contributing to national rejuvenation.