China’s space program has been making remarkable strides, with milestones including the Tiangong space station, the Beidou satellite system, the Chang’e lunar missions, the Tianwen Mars exploration, and the Xihe solar observatory. At the heart of these achievements is a dedicated group of young aerospace professionals who embody the spirit of innovation and ambition characteristic of the new generation of Chinese youth.
On May 2, 2022, General Secretary Xi Jinping reached out to the youth team working on China’s space station. He urged them to embrace the spirit of “two bombs and one satellite” and push forward the manned spaceflight ethos. Xi called for fresh contributions toward China’s quest for high-level self-reliance in aerospace technology. For these young innovators, the relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation should remain an enduring aspiration.
Youth brings new ideas and capabilities to the forefront. For instance, a team of young engineers played a crucial role in the construction of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, tackling daunting challenges like the prefabrication of immersed tubes and their final connections. Similarly, a youth-led team at the China National Offshore Oil Corporation made impressive advancements in deep-sea oil exploration, marking the beginning of the “ultra-deepwater era.” The establishment of the first “Luoyang Youth Assault Team” at Shenyang Aircraft Corporation has since inspired over 370,000 young individuals to join the aviation industry. This wave of innovation motivates the youth, challenging them to strive for excellence. Practical experience shows that tapping into the innovative potential of young people transforms the sprint of innovation into a collaborative relay race.
Innovation has no shortcuts; it rewards bravery and resilience. Young people are leading this new generation of pioneers. For example, while the multi-frequency pulse single-spin magnetic resonance spectrometer gained international recognition for its technology, it still relied on imported components. Wang Pengfei, a researcher at the University of Science and Technology of China’s Key Laboratory of Micro Magnetic Resonance, along with his team, tackled the development of critical components and technologies, successfully creating several core parts independently. Many cutting-edge technologies present a daunting challenge with “no established path” — youth must be willing to carve out new routes and take bold steps into uncharted territory. With persistent innovation, they can surmount obstacles and achieve meaningful breakthroughs.
The door to innovation is wide open, and the call for youth to engage is stronger than ever. Young innovators need to align themselves with contemporary trends and national needs, cultivating a proactive spirit while contributing their talents for the betterment of society. It’s essential for youth to take the lead in innovation and entrepreneurship, as their success is intertwined with the broader goals of the Party, the nation, and the welfare of the people. By maintaining a focus on national interests, solidifying their ideals, and aligning their actions with national strategies, young people can embrace the significant responsibility of national rejuvenation. Their passion for innovation, combined with their efforts, adds extraordinary value to their contributions.
As the most dynamic and creative segment of society, youth should take the lead in driving innovation and creativity. This represents not only the essence of youth but also a call to action for the times ahead. We must continue to establish diverse support mechanisms to create favorable conditions for young people’s innovation and growth. Let’s celebrate and support their achievements as they step into the spotlight, recognizing their contributions every step of the way!
