Themed as "University Education Reform - Create Innovative Talents", the 10th cross-Straits University Principal Forum opened in Guizhou University on July 14.

Zhang Baowen, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee and chairman of the China Democratic League, made a speech at the forum in which he expressed thanks to Guizhou provincial government's support for the forum, and also spoke highly of its achievements this year.

Zhang said that under the joint effort, the forum has been recognized by most universities and the content of the forum was becoming more and more energetic and colorful. The forum discussed the similarities and differences of the university education system in China’s mainland, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao and drew a picture of the higher education's transformation, reform and prospects over the next decade. The forum is significant as it pushes the cross-Straits exchange and communication on education and promotes cooperation and development.

Zhang also stressed that society needs innovative and creative professionals and university education takes responsibility for delivering on this. University education should abandon dogmatism and efforts should be made in the following aspects: score ranking is not the focus of university education; rethinking the positioning and goal of higher education should put more effort into its intentional development, improving the quality of university education and enhancing students' innovation ability and creativity. Also, academic staff shall pay attention to academic research and knowledge development, refusing to use the cramming method of teaching. Last but not least, university education should help students develop the ability to think independently. Exam-oriented lessons should be reduced and creative lessons that can inspire students’ innovative practices and encourage their creative thinking shall be increased.

Chen Min'er, the governor of Guizhou, also attended the forum. He expressed a great welcome to all participants. While introducing Guizhou to all the guests, Chen said that Guizhou is rich in mineral resources, ecological resources and ethnic cultural resources. Currently, while making efforts to help people get rid of poverty and become better off, ecological construction and environmental protection is also on the rise. We insist on the integration of economy and ecology. However, during the process, human resources is one of the most important factors. We will give our best support to improve our university conditions and education qualities.

Chen highly appreciated the significance of this forum, which provided a platform for each party to communicate and exchange views.