FOIA Request to California State University, Bakersfield Regarding Chinese National Students on June 3, 2025.
As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability in local governmental affairs, Kern County Times has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to California State University, Bakersfield. The request seeks detailed information about the university’s Chinese National students and related policies.
The request specifically asks for documents or lists that identify all current students who are Chinese Nationals, including their department of study. If privacy concerns prevent sharing specific names, we have requested a total count of these students broken down by department.
Additionally, we are seeking information on scholarships awarded to Chinese National students. This includes the amount of each scholarship and the source from which it originates. We also inquire about any recipients of scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Furthermore, we have requested any university policies or procedures that outline how the institution monitors its students, including those who are Chinese Nationals, to safeguard intellectual property and other confidential information.
This inquiry is conducted in collaboration with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing transparency within governmental agencies. As members of the media tasked with gathering and reporting news to the public, access to such records is crucial for holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency.
We believe this request aligns with our professional responsibilities and anticipate a fee waiver as media professionals engaged in disseminating vital information to the public.
