China's adult population has reached a new milestone in scientific understanding, with 44% of residents aged 16-69 – equivalent to 440 million people – now meeting basic science literacy standards, according to a nationwide survey released Wednesday by the China Association of Science and Technology (CAST).
The findings reveal a three-tiered knowledge structure: 15.37% demonstrate full scientific literacy, while 2.3% qualify as high-level practitioners. This progression aligns with China's 2021 framework that evaluates citizens across four key dimensions – scientific knowledge (40 points), methodology (20), critical thinking (20), and practical application (20).
Notably, respondents scored strongest in real-world implementation, achieving 79/100 in applying scientific reasoning and 80/100 in evidence-based decision making. 'These results reflect a cultural shift toward STEM values,' a CAST representative noted, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The metric, now part of official national statistics since 2022, enables targeted policy interventions. For business leaders, the data suggests growing technical workforce capabilities – particularly relevant for sectors like renewable energy and AI development. Academics highlight the survey's longitudinal value in tracking China's progress toward its 2035 vision of establishing a knowledge-driven society.
As Asian diaspora communities monitor developments, the literacy surge underscores broader trends in education reform and R&D investment. For global observers, these metrics offer new insights into China's innovation ecosystem and its implications for cross-border technological collaboration.
