How China is Transforming Public Science Education to Compete with the US in Technology Innovation

BEIJING – China is stepping up its efforts to educate the public on scientific matters. A major change to the Science and Technology Popularisation Law aims to enhance grassroots support and involvement in science.

Science popularisation has been a national initiative for decades. It encompasses activities like museum exhibits and talks by top scientists. This push is crucial as China aims to become a leading technology hub by 2035.

Professor Zhang Lijie, who is part of the China Research Institute for Science Popularisation, pointed out that the new law will offer better incentives for professionals in this field. This change hopes to attract more talented individuals to science communication.

One highlight of the new law is the establishment of National Science Popularisation Month every September. This initiative aims to provide regular opportunities for the public to engage with science.

The goal isn’t just to bring in new talent in areas like artificial intelligence and biomedicine. It’s also about fostering public support for scientific projects that may not yield immediate results. As China advances in complex fields like nuclear energy and genetics, public understanding and literacy in science are becoming essential.

In the face of rising technological competition with the U.S., science popularisation helps clarify China’s investments in science and its policies that are important for national interests.

During Science Popularisation Day in September 2024, academician Chen Jun shared insights on critical minerals at Hohai University. He emphasized the need for more research into these resources and ways to secure them, especially as China subsequently restricted the export of key minerals like antimony and gallium to the U.S. These minerals are vital for semiconductor manufacturing amid ongoing tech tensions.

Despite significant declarations from the government, a 2022 report highlighted challenges in the science popularisation system, noting enthusiasm is high at leadership levels but lacks traction in local communities. This disconnect is evident, as tensions even arose in Wuhan, where a taxi company protested against AI-powered driverless taxis for threatening local jobs.

Mr. Huang Bingnan, a copywriter focused on science education, mentioned that while China has advanced in science and tech, many people still don’t grasp the importance of these accomplishments. He stressed the need to connect the public’s understanding with the country’s progress to avoid comparisons that dismiss scientific investments as unnecessary.

China has indeed made impressive strides in establishing over 500 science centres and museums in recent years, showcasing world-class standards. Lim Tit Meng, CEO of Science Centre Singapore, praised this rapid development in science communication.

However, skepticism towards government messages remains a hurdle. A 2015 study by British sociologist Joy Zhang revealed that many Chinese scientists prefer to avoid discussing science in official channels due to fears of public skepticism fostered by perceptions of government influence. This situation illustrates an “over-politicisation” of science, complicating effective communication.

For science popularisation to succeed further, it will need societal backing. The revised law encourages non-governmental groups, such as schools and research institutions, to get involved. It emphasizes that businesses should view science education as part of their social responsibility by opening their doors to the public.

However, all efforts must align with the overarching leadership of the Communist Party of China, adding a layer of caution to how these initiatives are implemented.

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Policy Matters,Science,Technology,The Straits Times,US