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College Students Returning to Hometowns for Employment and the Diversification of Agricultural Production Relations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the paradox of low return rates of rural-origin university graduates to their hometowns midst China’s rural revitalization strategy. Statistical analysis reveals persistently low willingness among graduates to pursue rural employment, attributed to urban-rural income gaps, limited professional alignment, and negative social perceptions. Critically, traditional smallholder farming structures constrain agricultural productivity and fail to attract skilled talent. To break this cycle, the research advocates for diversifying agricultural production relations. It proposes parallel development of large-scale operations and specialized smallholdings, alongside cooperative models and integrated value chains. Such structural reforms are essential to create high-value rural employment and align talent flow with modernization goals.

Source: Agricultural & Forestry Economics and Management

DOI: 10.23977/agrfem.2025.080115

Author: Wang Yuanhui

Institution: China Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Regional Development and Environment

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Quality education, No poverty

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413092769