Zhu Yongxin, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and executive vice-chairman of the Central Committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy, led a team of members from the Committee on Education, Science, Health and Sports of the CPPCC National Committee to Chongqing from Oct 13 to 16 to survey efforts to strengthen basic, emerging, and interdisciplinary disciplines at universities.

The team visited universities, research institutes, and enterprises to learn about the measures taken, progress made, and difficulties and challenges encountered in developing these disciplines. The team members held a symposium with officials from relevant municipal departments, university heads, experts, scholars, and business representatives to exchange views, solicit suggestions, review practices and experience, and discuss recommendations.

The team members noted that China has made significant progress in developing basic, emerging, and interdisciplinary disciplines at universities in recent years. Chongqing has also made positive strides in optimizing its academic and disciplinary structures, promoting scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation, fostering a hub for talent, and supporting regional economic and social development, they said.

They stressed the need to fully understand the significance of education and remain focused on the goal of building China into a leading country in education by 2035. They called for enhanced development of basic, emerging, and interdisciplinary disciplines to provide solid support for building a strong nation and advancing national rejuvenation.

The team members also called for making full use of the CPPCC's institutional strengths and the expertise of its members to put forward more practical and effective recommendations, helping universities achieve greater progress in developing these disciplines. They emphasized the importance of offering suggestions and building consensus to support high-level scientific and technological self-reliance and strength, as well as China's independent cultivation of talent.

Chen Baosheng, chairman of the Committee on Education, Science, Health and Sports of the CPPCC National Committee, headed the team. Vice-chairmen Shang Yong, Tuo Zhen, and Tang Liangzhi also participated in the survey.