Press Release: National Science and Technology Backyard Conference Enhances Agricultural Education
Handan, Hebei Province – The 2025 National Science and Technology Backyard (STB) Conference took place Thursday, highlighting the critical role of innovative educational models in addressing rural challenges. The conference, part of a program initiated in 2009 by Zhang Fusuo, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, aims to disseminate scientific knowledge directly to farmers and enhance agrarian practices.
Du Jiangfeng, Vice-Minister of Education, emphasized that STBs serve as pivotal platforms for graduate training and solutions to agricultural issues. "These backyards are crucial for rural revitalization and foster scientific innovation,” he stated. Since their inception, 1,800 STBs have been established across 157 educational institutions in China, alongside 14 international backyards in countries such as Tanzania and Brazil.
The conference also underscored the need for improved regulation of STB operations to ensure quality. Recently established monitoring standards mandate that graduate students receive monthly subsidies of at least 1,800 yuan ($250), with each STB required to maintain an annual budget of no less than 200,000 yuan.
Guo Xin, Vice-Dean of China Agricultural University’s Graduate School, outlined requirements for STBs, including that each must employ at least three graduate students, with a minimum of 120 days of practical engagement annually. Faculty advisors are also obligated to visit frequently to maintain educational standards.
Concurrently, an exhibition showcased the achievements of STBs, allowing attendees to explore Quzhou’s success in integrating education and agricultural development. As China pushes to modernize its agricultural sector, these initiatives represent a forward-thinking approach to fostering sustainable rural development.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
