Why some Chinese students are staying in the UK

Cheng Yijia is staying in the UK. /CGTN

Foreign students are among the groups most affected by the tough measures against COVID-19 in the UK. As schools and universities are closed across the country, many are deciding whether to stay or leave.

But some of the 200,000 Chinese students in the UK have decided to remain during this time of crisis.

"It's really difficult to get a ticket to China now. I believe the UK will take due measures against the virus," said Cheng Yijia, a student from Loughborough University. "I have assured my parents that I will take care of myself."

Yao Qingling, another student from the same university, has made sure her fridge is full as she stays: "The risk is high to get infected during long flights."

But not everyone is worried about daily supplies.

Li Yuanjie, their schoolmate, said he hasn't stocked anything at home.

"I think the UK is prepared for a long-term battle against the virus. I don't think there will be any issue of supplies of daily necessities."

China has reported zero homegrown cases of COVID-19 in recent days. All new cases have been imported through people traveling from abroad. Some of the students say they don't want to compromise China's fight against the virus at this critical moment.

"The airports are running at their full capacity right now. I don't want to add to the strain of the transportation and medical services by going home now," said Zhang Huanqiu from the University of Westminster.

"Nearly half of my Chinese classmates have decided to stay. I am confident that we will be able take care of each other in case anyone falls sick," said Zhou Xingze, from Loughborough University.

But it is not an easy time.

"I believe the pandemic's psychological impact is at least as big as its physical impact," said Li Yuanjie.

But many still believe staying put is the best option, at least for now.