Chongqing - On November 3rd, a lively exchange between three distinguished academics and high school students at Chongqing Tsinghua High School was a notable highlight of the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Chongqing Association for Science and Technology.

Academic experts engage in dialogue with Chongqing High School students. (Photo/Chongqing Association for Science and Technology)

The three scientists, including He Jishan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and an expert in applied geophysics and engineering management; Xia Qingyou, a Professor at Southwest University, Ph.D. supervisor, and Director of the Biology Research Center of the Interdisciplinary Institute; and Han Huali, a leading figure in wind power at China State Shipbuilding Corporation Haizhuang Windpower Co., Ltd., interacted closely with the high school students.

The event was structured into three parts: thematic discussions, salon-style dialogues, and live Q&A sessions. During the thematic discussions, the scientists conveyed the profound impact of science throughout human history and recounted their personal engagements with science.

Academician He Jishan stated, "In geophysics, my goal is to 'pulse' the Earth," recounting his formidable early years and diligent pursuit of science that led to his current status.

He also reflected on the value of education, saying, "I am well aware that educational opportunities are hard to come by. Throughout my university years, I applied myself diligently, eventually becoming a university lecturer and a researcher. As our country has progressed in its societal, economic, and scientific endeavors, I have been fortunate to make a series of research breakthroughs."

He Jishan is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and an expert in applied geophysics and engineering management. (Photo/Chongqing Association for Science and Technology)

Professor Xia Qingyou shared his connection with silkworms. "Growing up in a pure rural environment, I was very close to nature," he said. He emphasized the responsibility of developing science, innovating technology, revitalizing the industry, and promoting culture, mainly through traditional Chinese silk production. 

Xia Qingyou, a Professor at Southwest University, Ph.D. supervisor, and Director of the Biology Research Center of the Interdisciplinary Institute. (Photo/Chongqing Association for Science and Technology)

"Silkworm rearing is a traditional Chinese craft, and I hope to create a new 'Silk Road' that includes science, technology, industry, and culture, leveraging our cultural advantages," he shared.

Dr. Han Huali explained wind power and shared her experiences establishing a team and independently developing wind turbines. 

Han Huali, the leading figure in wind power at China State Shipbuilding Corporation Haizhuang Windpower Co Ltd. (Photo/Chongqing Association for Science and Technology)

"China State Shipbuilding Corporation Haizhuang Windpower Co., Ltd. is born from the wind and follows the wind, erecting wind turbines in high mountains, upon the seas, and across deserts, transforming nature's wind into a ceaseless stream of electricity, brightening innumerable homes with green energy," she said.

Three youthful student representatives from the Ba'nan District shared their personal narratives and scientific enthusiasms.

Zhang Jingjing of Chongqing Tsinghua High School spoke of his quest to understand the behavior of water droplets following rainfall, underscoring the extensive opportunities still undiscovered in the realm of science.

Yao Long, a student at Chongqing Experimental School, is determined to invent an intelligent adjustment mechanism for bicycle seats, while Li Jiale from Longzhouwan Junior Middle School has been captivated by the marvels of science in daily life.

Throughout the live Q&A segment, numerous attendees were seen eagerly raising their hands, vying for the opportunity to inquire. Zhang Tianyu, also from Chongqing Tsinghua High School, posed a question and was afforded insightful counsel by the scientists. He conveyed his gratitude for the privilege of engaging directly with the experts, broadening his understanding of physics. He pledged to exemplify the spirit of the new era: committed to science and the pursuit of its mysteries with relentless study and practice.

As the event drew to a close, the trio of young science enthusiasts presented the academic specialists with flowers and tokens of appreciation. The specialists reciprocated with popular science texts, kindling the flames of curiosity, imagination, and the pursuit of knowledge in these budding scholars.

Academician He Jishan imparted a final, uplifting thought to the youth present: "You are the beneficiaries of our nation's golden age. The realm of science holds a promising and vibrant future, and with perseverance, all aspirations are attainable!"