Date: Oct.15, 2020
Source: CPC Publicity Department, Culture and Quality Education Office
Author: Deng Shuangshuang, Wu Jiameng
Prof. Zou Qichang, a doctoral supervisor at both Tongji University's School of Design and Creativity of and Shanghai Institute of International Design and Innovation, spoke on Strategic Thinking on Training Chinese Craftsmen and National Development at JNU's Panyu campus on Oct. 9. He shared the background, basic requirements and the training model for Chinese craftsmen. He also elaborated on strategic thinking about the development of Chinese craftsmen.
 

(The lecture scene)
Zou has constructed a theoretical system of contemporary Chinese design, as well as an understanding of craftsmanship from the cultural aspect. The mission of Chinese scholars is to learn about ancient Chinese culture based on the contemporary era, he said. They should build the contemporary system of Chinese culture after learning about modern world civilization. He stressed the importance of Chinese scholars in mastering foreign languages and ancient Chinese.
 

(Zou gives lecture)
In Zou's opinion, Chinese craftsmen are patriotic, open-minded, professional and sympathetic in the modern era of globalization. They are not only competent, he said, but also moral, cultured and conscientious. Zou called on all Chinese craftsmen to put great emphasis on product quality, brand-building and promoting China's national spirit.
Protecting intangible cultural heritage isn’t just about keeping personal crafts, he said. It needs to be conducted in a scientific and all-round way, which requires a lot of people's selfless dedication.”
Asked how he viewed the relation between the spirit of craftsmanship and mass entrepreneurship, Zou said that they were interconnected and that all students should lay a solid foundation for their future businesses. At this stage, students should concentrate more on their studies, he said. The premise of entrepreneurship is to have products and customers. If you are not prepared, it is better to calm down and focus on your studies before going into business.”