Source:

03-10-2006 17:40

Stepping up scientific research is considered fundamental for building an innovative society. In today's "China's Agenda", Liu Ying takes a look at the fresh attempts to boost the science sector.

Professor Chen Liquan is a pioneer in lithium battery research. He was the first physicist in China to successfully develop the lithium ionic cell, an alternative energy source used to power electric motor vehicles.

His innovation, together with two others in energy-efficient illumination, and one in solar technology, constitute the main tasks of the newly founded Center for Clean Energy, launched by the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Heading the Center, Professor Chen says scientific research is imperative for their strategic goals. He said: "The aim of our Center is to help tackle the issues of energy shortage and environmental degradation that faced by China, by developing technologies with independent intellectual property right."

The launch of the Center for Clean Energy is just one of China's attempts to improve the field of basic scientific research.

With the ambition to build a country of innovation, China plans to vigorously embrace such attempts in all fields. President Hu Jintao put forward a strategic goal at the National Science and Technology Conference in January.

Hu said: "By the end of 2020, China's science and technological innovation ability will be greatly improved. China's science development will contribute more to national economic and social progress, as well as the guarantee of national security. The comprehensive ability of China's basic science research, as well as that of the frontier fields, will be considerably strengthened."

Basic scientific research has made significant breakthroughs over the past two decades, such as the launch of satellites and manned space flights, as well as high-yield hybrid rice and genetic research.

However, the level of development in China still lags behind that of developed countries. China imports many key technologies and the nation's independent innovation abilities need propping up.

Scientists believe to change the situation, strengthening research is the key.

Prof. He Zuoxiu of Chinese Academy of Sciences, said: "In order to build an innovation-oriented nation, an important task is to step up the basic scientific research. Because basic scientific research is the source of all kinds of innovation."

Professor He points out that adequate financial support, good education and utilization of talent, as well as the effective reform of the sci-tech sector, are all challenges that China must face, to pursue advancement.

Scientists say creating a strong academic community is essential for strengthening China's innovative ability in basic scientific research. And with a strategic emphasis on independent innovation, we should see great things from scientific research labs across the country.

 

Editor:Wang Ping