A composite photo shows various sessions of a sci-fi masterclass event held in Beijing, March 30, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the Beijing Yuanyu Science Fiction and Future Technology Research Institute]

More than 300 children from Beijing's Shijingshan district and other Chinese regions attended a masterclass on March 30 in China's capital, where established scientists and science fiction writers shared insights aimed at inspiring their interest in science and technology.

The masterclass, part of the 2025 China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC 2025), aimed to ignite teenagers' enthusiasm for science, technology and sci-fi while nurturing their creative skills and cultivating emerging talent. It featured three distinguished guest lecturers.

Among them was Wu Xiangping, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, who offered a cosmological perspective on humanity's place in the universe and the limitless potential of science. He highlighted that despite the rapid advancements in modern technology, fundamental scientific theories continue to hold unsolved mysteries. Wu encouraged the young participants to remain curious and boldly venture into the unknown.

Chen Tingyong, vice president of the Shenzhen International Quantum Academy, delivered a presentation titled "Quantum Technology and Computing." He discussed how quantum computers will revolutionize processing speeds, with profound implications for cryptography, new materials design and artificial intelligence. Chen also showcased the academy's latest breakthroughs in quantum computing research, captivating teenagers' interest in cutting-edge technology.

Sci-fi writer Jiang Bo described science fiction as "the fusion of technology and art – humanity's ultimate dreams in the technological age." Jiang stressed that sci-fi works not only entertains but also explores future possibilities born from technological innovation, prompting deeper reflection about what tomorrow might hold. The author shared his creative philosophy, urging young audiences to nurture their imagination, stay engaged with technological advancements, and create more outstanding sci-fi works.

Later, the speakers participated in a Q&A session with students, addressing topics such as dark matter and the potential impact of quantum technology on fields like health care and transportation.

Participants pose for a group photo during a sci-fi masterclass event in Beijing on March 30, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the Beijing Yuanyu Science Fiction and Future Technology Research Institute]

The masterclass also included the awards ceremony for the 2024 Shijingshan District Popular Science and Sci-Fi Creation and Nurture Initiative, which recognized winners in four categories: popular science articles, science fairy tales, popular science and sci-fi illustrations, and sci-fi stories.

Writer Liu Cixin joined a panel discussion on youth sci-fi creation and future development, expressing high expectations for young sci-fi writers. "Their vitality and curiosity represent the future hope of science fiction literature," he said.

Yin Chuanhong, deputy secretary of the Chinese Science Writers Association, highlighted the crucial role that sci-fi culture plays in developing teenagers' scientific literacy and innovative thinking. He commended the event for its focus on youth sci-fi education.