The spotlight was shone on the question of how to boost the general levels of science literacy among the public in China and abroad, at the 2nd World Conference on Science Literacy which was held in Beijing on Oct 16. 

The two-day conference drew more than 600 science communicators and representatives from 28 countries and 35 science institutions worldwide.

Experts shared their experiences and knowledge and forged a new consensus on how to boost science literacy among the general public. 

The Initiative on the Sustainable Development of Science Education was published at the event. In it, five initiatives were proposed to boost science education. Among topics examined was curriculum development of the K-16 education system, enriching educational resources, improving teaching competences, innovations of educational practices and the cultivation of  society-wide science awareness. 

Experts also called for international scientific communities to collaborate and promote public science literacy and help achieve sustainable development goals at the conference. 

Scientific literacy is often defined as the ability to understand scientific ideas and incorporate scientific methods and thought to make better decisions in life. 

In recent years, China has increased efforts to make science more accessible to the public, particularly in rural and remote regions. Last year, 174 science museums offered free admission, attracting around 48.7 million visitors.  

A scientist gives speech at the 2nd World Conference on Science Literacy, held in Beijing on Oct 16. The two-day conference attracted more than 600 science communicators and representatives from 28 countries and 35 science institutions worldwide. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]