Children meet boffins at summer camp

A summer camp on science was launched in Shanghai on Tuesday for students to talk with top-notch Chinese scientists.

Thirty students from across the country were selected from more than 200 applicants to join the five-day camp at Shanghai Science and Technology Museum.

The summer camp aims to inspire the young generation's interest in science and technology, and to  promote children's ability to explain technology.

The featured scientists include Chu Junhao, from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Ge Jianxiong, professor at the Institute of Chinese Historical Geography of Fudan University.

They will give lectures on the latest trends in science and technology including artificial intelligence, quantum physics, gravitational waves, and protection of Yangtze River.

The museum's professionals will also participate in the  camp to guide students to make "cross-field innovations."

This is the first time that the famous Shanghai Science Communication Forum has held a summer camp for students.

"We launched this summer camp because a lot of young people told us they want to have more interaction with the scientists," said Song Xian, an officer with the museum.

The summer camp, which is free, will be held at the museum every year from now on.

Other cultural venues, such as libraries, museums, Shanghai Zoo and even a temple, are holding similar summer camps.