Tech, talent needed to boost food security

Zhong Denghua, a CPPCC National Committee member and Party secretary of China Agricultural University in Beijing, also underscored the importance of these courtyards in transforming scientific research into productivity.

Originating in Quzhou, Hebei province, the courtyards have played a key role in boosting agricultural productivity, alleviating poverty and promoting green development over the past 16 years.

"It has become a benchmark for combining education and science with agricultural advancement," Zhong said.

By moving classrooms to the fields and adopting a "learning by doing" approach, the initiative cultivates a new generation of agricultural talent who are both knowledgeable and practical. It has helped farmers tackle production challenges, improve efficiency and better withstand market risks.

Zhong said the courtyards link schools and rural areas, theory and practice, and problems and solutions, forming an integrated model of talent cultivation, technological innovation and social service. The initiative was highlighted in this year's No 1 Central Document as a model for integrating academic research with rural development.

Despite its success, Zhong said inadequate coordination between education, agriculture and financial departments has hindered the large-scale application of agricultural technology and extension services.

He suggested that agriculture and education authorities develop a joint action plan aligned with national agricultural science and technology initiatives, such as new variety cultivation and soil quality improvement.

Central and local governments should also invest in courtyards focused on food security and rural development, helping them commercialize technology and attract talent, he said.

Additionally, Zhong proposed establishing a nationwide alliance to coordinate efforts among universities, agricultural extension services, enterprises and research institutions.