Zhang Zuoyi, chief designer of the nuclear power plant project and dean of the Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology at Tsinghua University, led the development of the landmark breakthrough, which possesses completely independent intellectual property rights as part of a major national science and technology initiative.

Researchers at the Tsung-Dao Lee Institute at Shanghai Jiao Tong University are stretching the boundaries of fundamental scientific questions by examining the origins, evolution and structural formation of matter, exploring the connections between the "extreme" and "minuscule" in deep space, the deep ocean and the deep Earth.

Ding Kuiling, president of the university, said free exploration in frontier fields is a crucial avenue for uncovering the mysteries of nature and expanding the boundaries of human understanding.

"Universities should focus on the forefront of global science and technology, distill fundamental scientific questions and accelerate the establishment of forward-looking basic research," he said.

The reform of engineering education has been prioritized over the past 75 years. China is advancing outstanding engineer education and training programs, aimed at cultivating a new generation of strategic talent that will drive innovation and support the nation's modernization efforts.

The program introduces a model that involves recruitment and training, as well as shared project outcomes between universities and companies.

"This approach can break traditional barriers between academic and industrial training, ensuring that students gain practical experiences and contribute directly to industry advancements," Huai said.