Fostering a new generation of China's mathematical experts

A mathematician said the true ascension of a country in mathematics does not lie in following other countries, but rather in finding a correct direction for itself. It is necessary to recognize China's strengths, and the next three years will see its rise in mathematics.

Speaking of mathematical studies, Shing-Tung Yau is a name that embodies expertise as he is the first Chinese-born mathematician to win the Fields Medal, the highest international award for the subject. He delivered a speech at the Shanghai Master Forum on Science under the theme of the present and future of mathematics in China, which was held in Fudan University on Friday.

"Basic science is diverse, but the foundation of basic science lies in mathematical science and theoretical physics. Mathematics is the foundation of both physics and all engineering theories," Yau said, adding that any strong modernized country must achieve excellence in mathematics.

Looking back at the development of mathematics as a basic science, Yau said ancient China's mathematics level is not inferior to those of ancient civilizations in the world, and its main feature is the emphasis on application.

However, during the mid-Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the Renaissance in Western countries kicked off the unstoppable development of mathematics, which led to many outstanding mathematicians.

"We in China also have scholars who can match the world's top level. My mentor Shiing-shen Chern can be regarded as one of the greatest mathematicians of the 20th century," Yau said.

In 1946, Chern returned to China and began to cultivate a group of outstanding mathematicians. Later, he went to the United States again and tutored another batch of excellent Chinese mathematicians. In the mid-1980s, Chern become committed to cultivating top-level mathematical talents in China.