BEIJING — Chinese colleges and universities have been asked to redouble their efforts to help rural areas revitalize through scientific and technological innovation.

This was revealed by a five-year (2018-2022) action plan issued by the Ministry of Education. The plan elaborates on tech support regarding scientific research, technological innovation, capacity building, talent training, research results application, poverty alleviation, and international cooperation.

The plan states that in five years, higher education institutions are expected to have a better ability to support rural areas through innovation and train a number of professionals who understand agriculture, love the countryside and are deeply connected to farmers.

Colleges and universities must set up leading groups to oversee the support to the rural vitalization strategy and make their own detailed action plans, according to the ministry.