China's Spending on Science Popularization Hits New High of 21.51 Billion Yuan

China's Spending on Science Popularization Hits New High of 21.51 Billion Yuan

BEIJING - China has made significant investments in science popularization efforts, with the country spending a record-breaking 21.51 billion yuan ($2.99 billion) in 2023, according to data released by the Ministry of Science and Technology on Monday.

The expenditure marks a year-on-year increase of 12.6 percent, exceeding 20 billion yuan for the first time, as reported by the ministry. The per capita spending stood at 5.76 yuan, a slight rise of 0.46 yuan from 2022.

The data also indicates a substantial growth in the science popularization workforce, which includes full-time staff, part-time contributors, and volunteers. As of 2023, there were 2.16 million dedicated and part-time science popularization personnel, with a 7.99 percent increase from last year.

Moreover, the number of registered volunteers reached a staggering 8.05 million, reflecting a 17.16 percent increase from 2022. The infrastructure for science popularization has continued to expand, with China now home to 1,779 science and technology museums, an increase of 96 compared to last year.

The efforts have paid off in terms of participation, with over 1.3 million online and offline science lectures organized, attracting 1.93 billion participants. In addition, 514 million visitors attended 107,500 related exhibitions that took place in 2023, further highlighting the success of China's science popularization initiatives.

The growing investment in science popularization bodes well for a future where knowledge and innovation can thrive across the nation, and beyond borders.