Abstract: Professor Zexian Yan is a leading figure in the field of philosophy of science and technology, and the former President of South China Normal University. During his tenure, he undertook leadership works for the development of South China Normal University at a crucial time. This interview with President Zexian Yan mainly focuses on the history, current situation, and future of higher normal education. Professor Yan elaborates on the development of normal education at the turn of the 20th and the 21st century. His views on the quality of teachers, the transformation of normal education at the turn of the 21st century, the development of "211 Project" in normal universities, and the professionalization of teachers are insightful. His views have a great significance for inspiring solutions to existing problems and promotion of future development of normal universities.