Sci-tech innovation fuels rural vitalization in Yantai

Agricultural experts instruct farmers in pear tree pollination techniques. [Photo by Liu Fei for chinadaily.com.cn]

Laishan district in Yantai, Shandong province is embracing technological innovation as a key driver of rural vitalization.

Recognizing the transformative power of technology, the district is actively supporting the research and development of novel agricultural technologies, addressing the challenges faced by local enterprises in this domain.

To date, a number of agricultural enterprises within the district have backed eleven scientific and technological projects in key agricultural sectors, including eight provincial-level and three municipal-level projects. These projects have garnered financial support to the amount of 17.32 million yuan ($2.39 million) from higher authorities, fueling the development of cutting-edge agricultural technologies.

The district is also committed to fostering the rapid growth of agricultural enterprises. Currently, Laishan district boasts 14 high-tech enterprises in the agricultural sector and 26 national-level science and technology-based small and medium-sized enterprises.

Recognizing the crucial role of expert guidance, Laishan district has joined forces with Shandong Agricultural University and Ludong University to establish a science and technology service team comprising over 30 experts. This team has already provided services on 140 occasions, offering comprehensive agricultural technology assistance, including cultivation techniques, variety selection, and processing and storage, to support rural vitalization efforts.

To further enhance the scientific literacy of its residents, Laishan district has constructed a multi-level, comprehensive, and wide-ranging science popularization education demonstration system.

The district boasts nine municipal-level science popularization education bases, which play a pivotal role in enriching the scientific and cultural lives of its residents and elevating their overall scientific literacy. (Edited by Yang Yingxue)