The 38th China Adolescents Science and Technology Innovation Contest (CASTIC) was concluded in Tianjin on July 29, celebrating another step forward in China's dedication to cultivating young scientific professionals.

Photo taken on July 26 shows the main venue of the 38th CASTIC.

Photo credit: The Paper

In line with the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and the recent national sci-tech conference, the event carried the theme "Undertaking the Mission of the Times to Assist in High-Level Sci-Tech Self-reliance."

Prominent figures attended the closing ceremony, including He Junke, Executive President and Chief Executive Secretary of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST); Zhang Gong, Mayor of Tianjin; Yin Hao, Executive Secretary of the CAST; Hu Sheng, a member of the Communist Youth League of China's Central Committee Secretariat; Ma Lianjian, a member of the All-China Women's Federation's Party Committee and Secretariat; Sun Junqing, Vice Chairman of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region; and Zhu Peng, Vice Mayor of Tianjin.

The contest encompassed a variety of activities, such as exhibitions on the spirit of scientists, discussions on technological self-reliance, youth science seminars, and international cultural exchanges. These events aimed to inspire a spirit of scientific inquiry and nurture future scientific leaders, securing China's position in global sci-tech competition and future development.

Esteemed members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering and national science and technology award winners guided and inspired the young innovators. Notably, Li Deren and Xue Qikun, recipients of the country's top sci-tech award for 2023, sent video messages to encourage young participants to pursue their scientific dreams.

At the closing ceremony, young representatives from China and other countries jointly launched the Initiative of Tech Enhancing Humanity, highlighting the importance of scientific integrity, a scientific mindset, and the courage to innovate and experiment, building a shared future for mankind.

The contest, open to primary and secondary school students and their instructors nationwide, was organized by the CAST, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Communist Youth League of China, the All-China Women's Federation, and the Tianjin Municipal Government. It attracted participants from 31 provinces, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, and special guests from 20 countries.

After thorough evaluations, the contest awarded various prizes, including the CAST President's Award and special recognition for outstanding achievements.

The 39th National Youth Science and Technology Innovation Contest is scheduled for the Inner Mongolia autonomous region in 2025, continuing the tradition of stimulating young minds and nurturing innovation in science and technology.

Sources: The Children and Youth Science Center of the CAST, VOC