A research team led by Wan Gang, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), paid a visit to Shaanxi province from April 20 to 22. 

The team of the Committee on Education, Science, Health and Sport of the CPPCC National Committee focuses on building a high-quality education system and strengthening strategic scientific and technological strengths. 

Hailing the great S&T strides since the 18th CPC National Congress, Wan said China is undergoing a transition from quantity-focused production to quality-focused production, and from breakthroughs in certain fields to improvement of systematic capabilities . He urged universities to rise up to the challenges of the 4th Industrial Revolution and achieve breakthroughs in key and core technologies to meet the country's strategic needs. 

Wan also called for adhering to the Party leadership's guidance on S&T causes and sticking to the path of self-reliant innovation with Chinese characteristics. In promoting the innovation-driven development strategy, Wan said it's necessary to adopt diversified collaborative innovation between industry, universities and research institutes, accelerate the application of technology, improve international cooperation and strengthen basic research. 

Efforts are also needed to deepen reform of the S&T administration system and unleash the great potential of innovation in a better environment, said Wan.