The 2024 CAST Summer Camp for Young Science and Technology Volunteers (Beijing) drew to a close with a celebratory ceremony at the China Hall of Science and Technology in Beijing on July 8.
The event, hosted by the Department of International Affairs of the CAST and co-organized by the China Centre for International Science and Technology Exchange and the Beijing Association for Science and Technology, marked a significant milestone in fostering international scientific collaboration among youth.
Wan Gang, President of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), addressed the event. In his speech, he underscored the summer camp's role in nurturing young volunteers' aspirations for science and technology.
He implored the participants to maintain their curiosity in scientific research, delve into scientific exploration, and refine their skills. He also encouraged young minds to contribute to public welfare and to drive technological innovation.
Wan expressed his hope that the participants, through the engaging activities during the summer camp, reinforce their values of open cooperation and the importance of bridging scientific and cultural divides between different nations. He also took the time to engage with the participants, fielding their questions.
Following his speech, Wan presented the participants with certificates for their volunteer efforts, marking the moment with a group photo that encapsulated the essence of unity and scientific kinship.
Young Chinese ethic sci-tech professionals attend the opening ceremony of the 2024 CAST Summer Camp for Young Science and Technology Volunteers at the China Centre for International Science and Technology Exchange in Beijing on July 1, 2024.
Photo credit: WeChat official account of the CAST
The one-week summer camp, which commenced on July 1 at the China Centre for International Science and Technology Exchange, brought together 24 young ethnic Chinese sci-tech professionals from 13 countries. Luo Hui, Director General of the Department of International Affairs of the CAST, led engaging discussions and spoke at the welcome banquet, attended by representatives of various scientific and technological organizations across China.
The summer camp was designed to immerse the participants in Chinese culture, the ethos of Chinese scientists, and the country's modern technological innovation system. It sought to strengthen the bonds of trust and friendship between young scientific and technological professionals from China and their international counterparts.
The camp participants discuss with experts in the History Research of China at the Chinese Archaeological Museum.
Photo credit: WeChat official account of the CAST
The camp participants discuss with experts at the Guanghua School of Management at Peking University.
Photo credit: WeChat official account of the CAST
The summer camp journey was filled with memorable experiences, including visits to the "Exhibition of Science and Civilization in China" and the "Coming Home — Exhibition of US-educated Scientists Returning to China". They engaged in thought-provoking discussions with experts at the Chinese Archaeological Museum and the Guanghua School of Management at Peking University, exploring themes of sustainable development and integrating sci-tech development and economic progress.
The camp participants visit the Schwarzman Scholars of Tsinghua University during the event.
Photo credit: WeChat official account of the CAST
The camp participants visit the National Museum of China during the event.
Photo credit: WeChat official account of the CAST
A visit to the Schwarzman Scholars of Tsinghua University provided insights into the role of young sci-tech professionals in advancing sustainable development. The camp participants also spent time at the National Museum of China, immersing themselves in the tapestry of the nation's history and culture.
Volunteering at an elderly care community offered the camp participants a firsthand look at how technology can enhance community care, deepening their understanding of modern community service systems and their social responsibilities.
The CAST summer camp is part of a broader initiative to connect young scientific and technological talents with their Chinese heritage, to tell China's stories and convey China's voice effectively, and to promote cross-cultural exchanges. With the success of the first session in Beijing, the stage is set for the second session in Shenzhen, scheduled for late July, continuing the process of mutual learning and enrichment.
The CAST Summer Camp forges ahead in its mission to deepen the exchange of young scientific and technological talents between China and the world, setting the stage for a brighter, more interconnected future.
Sources: WeChat official account of the CAST, VOC
