Peking University, Mar. 18, 2010: On the afternoon of Mar. 17, the special event of "women scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on campus” debuted in Peking University with a speech held at the North Wing Hall of PKU Library.
Co-sponsored by the Women’s Work Committee of CAS, the Graduate Association of PKU and the Association of Women Scientists of China, the lectures aim to provide opportunities for graduate students to communicate face to face with women scientists from CAS, while encouraging university students, especially the women, to contribute to the cause of scientific research.
The lecture began with a keynote speech titled “To Be Good, and a Motivated, Passionate, Careful and Hardworking Person” delivered by CAS Academician Wang Zhiling, Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of CPPCC, Vice Chairperson of the Central Committee of the Jiu San (Sep. 3rd) Society and award winner of the “Chinese Top Ten Outstanding Women”. She emphasized the importance of moral quality during scientific research and encouraged young students to cherish their living condition and be prepared to work hard and keep innovative. She said that there were still misunderstandings about education for women. To eliminate disadvantages in their scientific work, the society should emphasize the gender equality further, and more policies to support women in employment should be brought into effect.
Academician Wang Zhizhen’s keynote speech
CAS Academician Cui Xiangqun, also President of CAS Nanjing Institute of Astronomical Optics, spoke on “My Career of Scientific Research”. She introduced the history and latest development of astronomical telescope, and China’s continuous contribution to astronomy. "As long as you take the responsibility to work earnestly and down-to-earth for serving our country and society, you will make your own contribution and comprehend the meaning of life at the same time,” said Cui.
Academician Cui Xiangqun’s keynote speech
Academician Fang Xin, Vice Secretary of CAS Party Committee and Member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, concluded the lecture with a speech "Be Mature and Be Talented”. She traced the career life of those who significantly stood out in the scientific field, and spoke highly of positive factors such as sense of responsibility, a general education, and effective and efficient teamwork. “Individual abilities, personal choice and social selection also make a difference,” she mentioned. According to Fang, self-esteem, independence and confidence were essential to women’s success. “Therefore, the basic elements for standing out are tolerance, self-discipline, practical experiences and a healthy mind with a clear goal and less concern about fame or wealth,” she summarized.
Academician Fang Xin’s keynote speech
At last, the three academicians answered questions ranging from how to coordinate research requirement and personal choices, to how to deal with particular problems that women might face in their scientific researches and social lives. Their insightful speech and humorous answers won a big applause from the audience.
Ms. Zhen Yan in answering questions.
Prof. Zhang Yan, host of the lecture.
Group photo.
Vice Chairperson of the All-China Women’s Federation Zhen Yan, Director of the Women’s Work Committee of CPC's State Organs Work Committee Wang Yuling, Director of CAS Women’s Work Committee Sui Hongjian also attended the lecture.
The event was hosted by Prof. Zhang Yan, Vice Chairman of PKU Council.
Translated by: Qin Yixiao
Edited by: Jacques
Source: PKU News (Chinese)
