Event Overview

The 2025 World Top Scientists’ Science Education Forum, alongside the Second Science & Technology Girls Empowerment Forum, convened at the Lingang Center in Shanghai. With the theme, “One Generation Inspiring Another: Break Through”, the event saw leaders from various sectors including government, academia, and industry engaging in meaningful discussions about advancements in science education and talent cultivation in scientific research.

Science & Technology Girls Empowerment Initiative

Building on the previous year’s outcomes, where the inaugural Science & Technology Girls Empowerment Forum launched the “Science & Technology Girls Empowerment Initiative,” this year’s forum celebrated significant strides made by L’Oréal’s program. The initiative emphasized community engagement in science education, encouraging various sectors to act as mentors and resource providers.

During the forum, L’Oréal China announced the establishment of the Lingang Base for this initiative and introduced the Science & Technology Girls Empowerment Camp, which offers a structured research and educational experience for girls interested in STEM fields.

Empowering Women in Science

Wang Jianzhang, vice chairperson of the Shanghai Women’s Federation, highlighted the significance of women’s development through scientific education, appealing for collaborative efforts among businesses, educational institutions, and communities to create a supportive environment for female scientific talent.

International Collaboration in Science Education

The forum also highlighted the importance of international collaboration in science education. Notable scientists and educators shared insights on overcoming global challenges through science. Serge Haroche, Nobel Prize winner, discussed current issues like climate change, advocating for scientific exploration as a solution, while encouraging young women to fearlessly pursue their ambitions in science.

Li Zhengtao, an education reform advocate, outlined the necessity for a comprehensive education framework that combines practical engagement and community collaboration to cultivate scientific skills among students.

Jiang Changjian from Fudan University presented statistics indicating a commendable rise in female Nobel Prize winners in natural sciences from 2010 to 2025, attributing their success to a mix of passion, resilience, and innovative spirit.

The Role of Enterprises

Lan Zhenzhen of L’Oréal emphasized that companies should not only support educational initiatives but also innovate and connect communities for greater impact. She expressed aspirations for Chinese enterprises to drive global cooperation in female science education.

Interactive Dialogue and Learning

A round-table discussion allowed participants to exchange diverse perspectives on science and education. Experiences from scientists and educators underlined the necessity of embracing mistakes as part of the learning process and encouraging curiosity among students. Carolyn R. Bertozzi referred to the importance of a research mindset built on the desire to know more, while educational leaders demonstrated how resourceful education can inspire future generations, even in less resource-rich environments.

Introducing the “Sparkling Girls” Initiative

A special program titled “Sparkling Girls,” aimed at empowering young women through scientific education, was also launched at the forum. This initiative encouraged participants to enhance their scientific literacy and connect with peers by experiencing hands-on science activities. Highlighting the importance of community, the program included students from diverse backgrounds, such as those from the 59th Middle School in Lanzhou, fostering mutual growth and shared experiences in science.