Talent cultivation critical for progress in science

Editor's note: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday urged greater efforts and more concrete measures to strengthen basic research, enhance China's capacity for original innovation, and further solidify the foundation for building the country's strength in science and technology. Xi made the remarks while attending a symposium on strengthening basic research in Shanghai. A commentary in People's Daily explains the importance of basic research for the country's development. Below are excerpts of the article.

Original innovation refers to "0-to-1" breakthroughs, which are the source of scientific innovation. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, China has placed greater emphasis on original innovation in scientific research and technological development.

As a result, a number of major basic research projects have been executed in recent years, leading to notable breakthroughs in fields such as quantum technology, materials science, physical sciences, life sciences, space science and artificial intelligence. The country's capabilities in basic research and original innovation have steadily improved and progress has moved from isolated advances to more coordinated development.

The world has entered an era of "big science", in which basic research is becoming more complicated. There is an urgent need for the country to strengthen its basic research and address key technology bottlenecks to keep pace with the international sci-tech competition, achieve greater self-reliance, foster a new development pattern and promote high-quality development.

China aims to become a strong country in science and technology by 2035. Enhancing its original innovation capacity will be key to its economic strength, defense strength and comprehensive national strength, while also contributing more meaningfully to global scientific progress.

Building this capacity will take time and persistence, but it also requires clear priorities. At the heart of basic research lies high-quality talent. It is essential to integrate the development of education, science, technology and talent. Comprehensive efforts must be made to cultivate, introduce and utilize talent, and expand the talent pool for basic research. This is fundamental to sustaining original innovation.

At the same time, basic research has become more organized, with institutions and policy frameworks playing a larger role in shaping outcomes. Stronger and more consistent support is therefore crucial for genuine breakthroughs to emerge. Scientific and technological progress is a global issue. Integration into the global innovation network and deeper international exchanges and collaboration in basic research are intrinsic requirements of China's pursuit of self-reliance through openness and cooperation.

In the end, the competition between nations comes down to talent and education. It is essential to better integrate the foundational role of education, the driving force of talent and the leading role of science and technology. By improving coordination between education and research, China can build a more effective system for nurturing talent and ensure a steady pipeline of young researchers. This will create a multiplier effect, supporting high-quality development in basic research.

Advancing basic research requires not only material support but also a strong sense of purpose. On the new journey ahead, it is important to carry forward the spirit of scientists, encouraging dedication and a commitment to innovation. By stimulating the imagination and curiosity of young people, the country can ensure that the field of basic research continues to attract new talent and thrive.

Turning China into a leading science and technology country has long been a national aspiration. Today, that responsibility rests with the new generation, and a more ambitious vision lies ahead for the country.