CHINA launched its first national Science Popularization Month last week, kicking off a 30-day, nationwide “carnival of science” designed to broaden public access to scientific knowledge and celebrate the country’s achievements in innovation.

Organized by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the month-long program features more than 100 events across urban and rural areas in September, including museum displays, themed exhibitions, public lectures, school outreach, mobile science vans, hands-on demonstrations and online programming. Opening ceremonies were held at Beijing’s National Communication Center for Science and Technology and at the China Science and Technology Museum.

One of the headline exhibits is a special display on Chinese scientists during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, mounted to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance and the wider World Anti-Fascist War. The exhibition intends to honor the contributions of scientists in wartime and to connect historical scientific efforts with present-day innovation.

The campaign follows an amendment to China’s Science and Technology Popularization Law, effective Dec. 25, 2024, which formally designates September as the national Science Popularization Month and urges institutions to promote science education and public discussion. CAST says the month will lean heavily on digital engagement — livestreams, virtual exhibits and social media — to reach broader audiences and foster lasting scientific curiosity in support of innovation-led development.

(Li Jing)