Lin Qiang emphasizes that education should strengthen practical learning to cultivate talent. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Fourth Houguan Forum kicked off on Dec 3 at Fuzhou University, located at the site of Houguan county in the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

The event included a main forum, keynote lectures, and university sub-forums, as well as academic visits. Distinguished guests delivered speeches and engaged in discussions on Houguan culture, providing participants with a richer understanding of its contemporary significance.

Houguan culture, originating in the ancient Houguan area of Fuzhou, Fujian province, is noted for its strong emphasis on education and civil service achievements. At its heart is a synthesis of traditional Chinese culture and Western knowledge, promoting a spirit of patriotism, inclusiveness, and innovation.

Lin Qiang, former deputy director of the Standing Committee of the Fujian Provincial People's Congress and a sixth-generation descendant of Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) official Lin Zexu, stressed that education must prioritize practical learning, connecting knowledge with social responsibility.

Professor Guo Dan calls for platforms that train talent in real industries and turn research into productivity. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Guo Dan, a professor at Fujian Normal University, said that in the history of Houguan culture, education has served as the foundation, science and technology as the engine, and talent as the core, all of which must develop as an integrated whole if the culture's full potential is to be reached.

The forum has been held annually since 2022, attracting domestic and overseas scholars and representatives to promote the cultural legacy worldwide.