Shanghai to strengthen foundational AI research

National legislators and political advisers from universities in Shanghai are urging a stronger focus on foundational artificial intelligence research to bolster the nation's capabilities in basic theories and original algorithm development for AI industrialization.

The calls for the change, made during the annual sessions of China's top legislature and advisory body known as the "two sessions" which were held in Beijing in March, emphasize the need to strengthen basic theoretical research in AI data science, improve top-level planning and coordination for key technology research, development and application innovation, and build high-quality data sets.

"Universities, especially the top-tier ones in Shanghai, should serve as the best source and research pioneer area for driving the innovation and development of AI technology," said Gu Xianglin, a National People's Congress deputy and a professor at Tongji University.

He cited the advantages of higher education institutions, including talent concentration, diverse disciplines, well-equipped research bases and international collaboration.

While acknowledging Shanghai's progress in AI industry scale, technology and enterprise numbers, legislators and advisers pointed to existing shortcomings.

Last year, Mei Bing, an NPC deputy and Party secretary of East China Normal University, led a research effort involving 37 NPC deputies in Shanghai to examine the AI Plus initiative and the development of new quality productive forces.

Their findings highlighted that China's research on basic AI theory and original algorithms remains relatively weak, and that there is a significant gap between China and leading foreign technology companies in theoretical exploration and large-scale AI model development.

In his Government Work Report at the National People's Congress on March 5, Premier Li Qiang pledged to advance the AI Plus initiative, integrating digital technology with manufacturing and market advantages and supporting the widespread application of large models.

He outlined plans to develop new-generation intelligent terminals and smart manufacturing equipment, including intelligent connected new energy vehicles, AI-enabled phones and computers, and intelligent robots.

NPC deputies said the government's focus on computing power and data deployment signals comprehensive support for AI industry development, driving the integration of AI into various industries and creating opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Fang Shouen, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and Party secretary of Tongji University, described AI as a fundamental technology for socioeconomic development and industrial transformation, as well as a key area of global competition.

A World Economic Forum report projects a 40 percent increase in global demand for AI-related jobs by 2027. The McKinsey Global Institute predicts China's AI talent gap could reach 4 million by 2030.

"Therefore, cultivating a sufficient number of high-quality AI professionals with innovative capabilities is key to the successful implementation of the national strategy for AI development," Fang said.

Jin Li, an NPC deputy and president of Fudan University, said the institution has launched new AI education reforms, emphasizing integrated teaching and learning and creating an intelligent teaching environment.

"Our goal is to enable students not only to learn how to use tools, but also to master and transform them," he said.