BEIJING — China has moved to step up the cultivation of innovative talent in certain basic academic disciplines such as mathematics and physics by launching a pilot scheme at more than 30 select universities, including Peking and Tsinghua, according to a ministry guideline unveiled on Jan 15.

The scheme aims to better select and train students that are interested in serving the country's major strategic needs and at the same time have excellent comprehensive qualities or excel in basic discipline studies, said the document issued by the Ministry of Education via its official website.

Literally known in Chinese as "Qiang Ji Ji Hua," or "Strengthening Foundation Plan," it will see successful applicants be offered tailored training programs, quality education resources and more opportunities for further education and scholarships.

Applicants have to sit the national unified college entrance exam and undergo an evaluation process organized by the select universities before being admitted as a student under the plan.