On April 14, Li Xueyong, President of the China Association of Senior Scientists and Technologists (CASST) and Director of the Education, Science, Culture, and Health Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress, led a delegation to Guizhou University (GZU). The delegation conveyed their appreciation and support for Academician Ma Kejian, a distinguished member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, during a symposium focused on advancing scientific innovation and regional development. Key attendees included Ban Cennong, CASST Vice Chairman, former Vice Chairman of the Guizhou Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Chairman of the CASST Guizhou Branch; and Yang Yongbin, Vice Chairman of the Guizhou Provincial Association for Science and Technology. From GZU, the key participants were Yang Wei, Secretary of the CPC Committee, and President and Academician Song Bao'an.Representatives from CASST, the Guizhou Provincial Association for Science and Technology, and GZU leadership also participated.

Academician Ma Kejian expressed gratitude for the delegation’s visit, emphasizing that “while structures have defined forms, innovation knows no boundaries.” He highlighted the critical role of fundamental theoretical research in driving technological breakthroughs, particularly for advancing large-scale development in China’s western regions and supporting national high-quality development goals. He stressed the need for laboratories to integrate theory with practice, foster bold innovation, and prioritize scientific work that aligns with national strategic priorities.

Li Xueyong praised Academician Ma’s pioneering contributions to regional and national progress. He underscored the importance of theoretical innovation, engineering advancements, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in building China’s scientific and technological prowess. “Bridging the gap between the lab and real-world production is essential,” he stated, urging GZU to continue cultivating talent capable of translating research into tangible solutions for high-quality development.

During the visit, the delegation toured GZU’s Space Structures Research Center, gaining insights into the university’s cutting-edge engineering projects and research initiatives.

Editor: Pang Aizhong, Kang Meihua

Chief Editor: Li Xufeng

Senior Editor: Ding Long

Translator: Li Xiaorong