Nuclear energy outreach summer camp opens in Hainan

The 13th "Charm of Nuclear Energy" National Nuclear Science Popularization Summer Camp opening ceremony is held in Haikou, Hainan province, Aug. 5, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The 13th "Charm of Nuclear Energy" National Nuclear Science Popularization Summer Camp officially kicked off on Aug. 5 in Haikou, Hainan province.

The event was jointly hosted by the Chinese Nuclear Society and China National Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., and co-organized by Hainan Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., Hainan Provincial Cultural Center, Hainan Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Center, and Hainan Medical University. It aimed to raise awareness of nuclear energy among young people through a combination of science lectures, cultural experiences and field visits — highlighting the unique integration of local heritage and advanced technology in Hainan.

In his opening remarks, Gao Keli, deputy secretary-general of the Chinese Nuclear Society, expressed hope that the "Charm of Nuclear Energy" initiative would inspire more people, especially the youth, to learn more about the field of nuclear science and develop a sustained interest in scientific inquiry. 

Camp participants share their perspectives at the opening ceremony of the 13th "Charm of Nuclear Energy" National Nuclear Science Popularization Summer Camp held in Haikou, Hainan province, Aug. 5, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Lin Yi, a junior high school student from Fujian province and one of the camp participants, shared her excitement about the program. She said she hopes the experience will deepen her understanding of nuclear energy and motivate her to contribute to science communication in the future.

The camp's science lecture series featured a range of engaging and diverse content. David G. Evans, distinguished professor at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, delivered a lively talk emphasizing the importance of scientific thinking. Chen Jianxin, chief engineer at Hainan Nuclear Power, provided a comprehensive overview of nuclear energy applications and their relevance to daily life. Xiao Nanyan, a researcher at the Shanghai Natural History Museum, introduced innovative science communication approaches — including sign language-based outreach — offering participants new perspectives on how to share scientific knowledge.

Over the following four days, the camp participants will visit the Hainan Provincial Cultural Center and Hainan Museum to explore the province's rich cultural heritage. They will also travel to Hainan's nuclear power station, where they will take part in hands-on "nuclear energy + ecology"-themed learning activities.

Now in its 13th year, the "Charm of Nuclear Energy" initiative has attracted more than 7 million participants and grown into a science outreach brand with international influence. This year's edition has not only furthered public understanding of nuclear energy, but also provides a valuable platform for young people to explore the intersection of science, culture and education.