China in Bid to Train High-caliber Personnel

China is vigorously pushing ahead a program to train personnel of high caliber.

Universities involved in the program, known as "Project 211", have become China's major bases for scientific research and training of high-caliber personnel, the Ministry of Education (MOE) announced Wednesday.

"Project 211" is launched as part of China's strategy of " revitalizing the country with science and education". It will focus on helping 100 Chinese universities improve their academic level and management.

As a strategic project, "211 Project" includes the construction of key subjects, public service system and affiliated equipment. The central government, related departments, local governments and universities have contributed to the fund.

Now, China has 96 universities involved in "Project 211," which have utilized 15 billion yuan of funds during the 1996-2000 period, accounting for 82 percent of the total funds available.

MOE departments have selected over 600 key subjects covering seven fields including human sciences, basic science, environment.

Ministry officials will continue to reinforce "Project 211," in a bid to contribute to the country's social and economic construction.

People's Daily Online --- http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/