Chinese mathematicians Wang Hong and Deng Yu were among four recipients awarded the prestigious Fields Medal on July 23, marking the first time two Chinese mathematicians have won the prize in the same year.

Wang Hong, the first Chinese woman to receive the Fields Medal—the world’s top honor in mathematics—has shared candidly about feeling "discouraged" during her early years as an undergraduate at Peking University. Her remarks have struck a chord with many young students in China who report similar experiences.

Since then, Wang has spoken about regaining her confidence while continuing her studies in France. According to a profile in Guangxi Daily, she viewed mathematics as an “inner sanctuary for the mind” during her secondary school years.

These developments have sparked a broader debate in China regarding the education system and whether it adequately supports students in building confidence and fostering original ideas.

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