Trump administration investigating Duke’s relationship with Wuhan University, tell me about this news in (https://www.wral.com/news/education/trump-administration-investigating-duke-wuhan-relationship-september-2026/)

In mid-September 2026, the Trump administration launched a federal investigation into Duke University, focusing primarily on its partnership with Wuhan University in China and its foreign financial disclosures.

Key details of the investigation include:

1. Focus on Section 117 Disclosures

The U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of State opened joint inquiries into Duke University (as well as the University of North Dakota) under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Under federal law, institutions receiving federal support are legally required to disclose foreign gifts, contracts, and financial partnerships exceeding $250,000 per calendar year. Officials allege that previous filings were incomplete, late, or mischaracterized, including instances where governmental entities were reportedly listed as non-governmental.

2. Duke Kunshan University and Wuhan University

Central to the inquiry is Duke’s extensive collaboration in China through Duke Kunshan University (DKU), a joint venture university created in partnership with Wuhan University and the city of Kunshan.

• Federal officials highlighted national security concerns, noting that Wuhan University is overseen by China’s State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND).

• Investigators are probing governance structures, the role of Chinese Communist Party oversight, potential intellectual property transfer, and academic freedom/surveillance concerns tied to joint-venture operations.

3. Record Demands and Compliance

Duke has been ordered to turn over detailed documentation within 30 calendar days (by mid-October 2026). The information demanded includes:

• Foreign tax records and international financial audits.

• Contracts and formal agreements involving foreign entities, international research personnel, and foreign talent recruitment programs.

• Specific records detailing the governance, funding, and joint research ventures tied to Wuhan University and DKU.

4. Potential Penalties

Universities found in violation of Section 117 requirements face potential legal action from the Department of Education and the Department of Justice, civil liability to recover investigation costs, and the risk of losing eligibility for Title IV federal student financial aid programs.