By Li Han

Staff Writer of the Tsinghua News Center

Tsinghua President Gu Binglin participated and spoke as the only representative from universities at the National Conference on Science and Technology opened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on January 9.

Chinese President Hu Jintao delivered a speech at the meeting, and Premier Wen Jiabao announced the State Council’s decision on the 2005 national science and technology awards.

The university, president Gu argued, is the primary focus for the combination of teaching and research in China. The interaction of teachers and students provides a unique environment for the advancement of learning. The teachers bring to that environment rich experience and the students contribute innovative energy. The university environment, furthermore, is perhaps the only place where all academic disciplines can be orchestrated to achieve national priorities and goals. It is also a conducive environment for the blending of Chinese and foreign academic knowledge and experience.

From his experience at Tsinghua University, President Gu identified the four most important missions. It is important for the university to adapt its research and disciplines development to the nations needs. Secondly, the university must put a priority on innovation and research. The third mission of the university is to promote and disseminate transformations in science and technology. Finally, the university’s mission includes the cultivation and development of innovative spirits in its students.