Xi Jinping's Symposium Sparks Momentum for Basic Research Nationwide

On April 30, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a high-profile symposium in Shanghai dedicated to strengthening basic research, underscoring its role as the 'source of the entire scientific system and the key to resolving all technological challenges.' Xi called for intensified efforts and tangible actions to bolster original innovation capabilities, laying a solid groundwork for China to emerge as a global science and technology powerhouse. This message resonated deeply across the scientific community, prompting immediate responses from educators and researchers. The very next day, CCTV's flagship Xinwen Lianbo program amplified the call by featuring insights from leading figures in academia, including Jilin University (JLU) President Zhang Xi, a distinguished chemist and member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

CCTV Spotlight on JLU President Zhang Xi's Vision

In the broadcast titled 'Enhancing Original Innovation and Solidifying Foundations for a Science Powerhouse,' Zhang Xi shared how national priorities have propelled chemistry from a tracking position to one of parallel advancement and leadership. 'Since the new era, China's chemical research has achieved remarkable progress, yielding a series of eye-catching original results,' Zhang noted, crediting the Communist Party of China's (CPC) unwavering support for basic research. He highlighted sustained investments through successive Five-Year Plans, transforming China into a nation with consistent growth in science and technology funding.

Zhang emphasized universities' pivotal role in nurturing young talents committed to basic research, pointing to initiatives like the Strong Foundation Plan (Qiangji Jihua, 强基计划) as game-changers. Launched in 2020 by the Ministry of Education (MOE), this plan targets top high school graduates for elite training in foundational disciplines essential for national strategic needs.

Unpacking the Strong Foundation Plan: A National Talent Strategy

The Strong Foundation Plan represents a strategic pivot in China's higher education landscape, addressing gaps in top-tier talent for basic sciences amid rapid technological demands. Unlike traditional Gaokao admissions, it employs a dual-track system: initial screening based on Gaokao scores (typically 80 points above provincial special recruitment lines for subjects like chemistry), followed by university-specific assessments evaluating academic aptitude, interviews, and physical fitness. Participating institutions—39 elite 'Double First-Class' universities including JLU—recruit for 14 core disciplines: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, history, philosophy, archaeology, and others tied to national priorities like integrated circuits and aerospace.

By 2026, the plan has enrolled over 30,000 students nationwide, with enrollment quotas expanding annually. It mandates small-class teaching, mentorship by top scholars, interdisciplinary curricula, and flexible academic paths, allowing seamless transitions to graduate studies. Early outcomes show high retention rates and breakthrough publications, validating its focus on 'thick foundation, heavy practice, strict requirements'—a mantra echoed by Zhang Xi.

JLU's Pioneering Role in the Strong Foundation Plan

Jilin University, a C9 League member and 'Double First-Class' powerhouse, has been a frontrunner since the plan's inception. JLU admits via Qiangji for mathematics, physics, chemistry, and archaeology, channeling selectees into prestigious programs like the Tang Aoqing Experimental Class—a nod to the late chemist who built JLU's storied chemistry legacy. In 2026, JLU's quotas include around 20-30 spots per province for chemistry, with entry thresholds demanding Gaokao excellence (e.g., 81-82 points above lines in key provinces).

The university's chemistry cohort exemplifies success: freshmen undergo rigorous foundational training in quantum chemistry, organic synthesis, and supramolecular assembly—Zhang Xi's specialty—before branching into research labs by sophomore year. Cross-disciplinary electives like 'chemistry + biology' foster innovation, while dynamic assessments allow top performers to skip grades or enter PhD tracks early. JLU reports 95% of Qiangji chemistry graduates pursuing advanced studies, many securing NSFC youth grants.

Zhang Xi's Leadership: From Supramolecular Pioneer to Education Reformer

A Changsha native (b. 1965), Zhang Xi earned his BS, MS, and PhD in analytical chemistry from JLU (1982-1992), later serving as NSFC vice president before returning as president in 2018. His research on supramolecular systems—self-assembling molecular architectures mimicking biological processes—has garnered international acclaim, with over 300 papers and h-index exceeding 80. Key contributions include programmable hydrogels for drug delivery and single-molecule force spectroscopy, bridging basic theory and applications.

Under Zhang, JLU chemistry has surged: from tracking global leaders to producing Nature/Science papers annually. He advocates 'thick accumulation for thin emergence,' urging solid theory ('thick foundation'), hands-on labs ('heavy practice'), and unyielding standards ('strict requirements'). In 2023 NPC remarks, Zhang linked Qiangji to national rejuvenation, calling for moral education alongside skills.

Real-World Impacts: JLU Qiangji Alumni Breaking Barriers

JLU's first Qiangji chemistry cohort (2020) boasts stars like a 2025 NSFC 'Excellent Youth Fund' winner pioneering CO2 capture catalysts, and another's team publishing in Angewandte Chemie on novel nanomaterials. Retention exceeds 98%, with 70% in PhD programs. Nationally, Qiangji has yielded 500+ patents and 2,000 SCI papers by 2026, per MOE data. JLU integrates 'Benke + Shuoshi' (undergrad + master's) tracks, accelerating careers.

Stakeholders praise the model: mentors note heightened curiosity; students value mentorship (1:5 ratio); industry partners like CNPC recruit directly for R&D roles. JLU's official report details these triumphs.

National Momentum: Aligning with Xi's Science Vision

Xi's directive aligns with the 14th Five-Year Plan's 8% R&D hike (basic research share rising to 6.5%), NSFC funding topping RMB 350 billion. Universities like Tsinghua and Peking echo JLU, but JLU excels in chemistry (top-5 domestically). Challenges persist: talent poaching abroad, lab infrastructure. Solutions include 'science-education integration' hubs and youth funds.

Challenges and Innovations in Talent Cultivation

• 招生优化: 2026 tweaks narrow competition exemptions, prioritizing Gaokao rigor.
• 课程改革: Blending AI tools for simulations, interdisciplinary modules.
• 导师制: CAS academicians guide cohorts, fostering 'scientist spirit.'
• 评估动态: Multi-stage reviews weed underperformers, reward innovators.

Zhang envisions 'failure-tolerant' cultures, echoing Xi's youth focus.

Future Outlook: Building China's Basic Research Powerhouse

By 2035, Qiangji aims for 100,000 elite talents; JLU targets 500 annual chemistry admits. With Xi's impetus, expect surges in Nobel-caliber breakthroughs. For aspiring researchers, JLU exemplifies opportunity amid national resolve.

For deeper insights, explore CCTV's full coverage.

Stakeholder Perspectives: Voices from JLU Community

Professors laud Zhang's vision; students share stories of lab epiphanies; alumni lead firms like those in fine chemicals. Balanced views note funding pressures but affirm progress.

Photo by Zain Lee on Unsplash

Global Context and Implications for Chinese Higher Education

Amid US-China tech rivalry, Qiangji fortifies sovereignty. JLU's model inspires peers, positioning China for leadership in quantum, materials science.