On April 13 and 20, Prof. Gong Xingao, Chancellor of Guangdong Technion - Israel Institute of Technology (GTIIT) and academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Prof. Lin Danming, Pro-Vice Chancellor of GTIIT, led a team to the Shantou Jinshan Middle School and Shantou Jinnan Experimental Middle School, and gave a lecture to the students.

During the visit, Prof. Gong Xingao and Prof. Lin Danming introduced the education model of GTIIT, which emphasizes foundation, thinking, research, and innovation, fully demonstrating the characteristics and advantages of science and engineering universities. They praised the good performance of outstanding GTIIT graduates of the two high schools. Prof. Gong was also invited to give a lecture titled "Sunshine Lights up the ‘Double Carbon’ Future - From Photovoltaic Effect to Solar Energy" .

Since China made a solemn commitment to the world at the UN General Assembly about carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, these two phrases have become an environmental buzzword in society. With a strong sense of responsibility as a scientist, Prof. Gong Xingao brought this topic to high schools.

During the lecture, Prof. Gong used rich illustrations to explain some complex physics knowledge in a simple way. Taking solar energy as an example, he talked about the practical application of "solar cells" from the physical principle "photoelectric effect", and then led to ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and achieve the country's "Double Carbon" goal. He used examples that were close to life and asked many questions to guide students to actively discuss and feel the charm of science. Prof. Gong’s humorous language and systematic guidance made the lecture lively.

"Achieving the national goal of ‘Double Carbon’ and without losing Human Well-being is the power of science and responsibility of scientists," Prof. Gong concluded. He also actively interacted with the students, to let the students feel that "Double Carbon" is closely related to everyone's life. Low-carbon life is the future development direction. Stimulate their sense of social responsibility and interest in learning scientific knowledge.

During the Q&A part, students all cherished the opportunity to communicate face-to-face with the academician. “Is afforestation still positive for “Double Carbon?” “How long do solar cells last?” "What is the development prospect of China's materials industry?" The students’ enthusiasm for science left Prof. Gong with a great impression. He also encouraged the students to combine rest in learning, choose a path that suits them, and get good grades in Gaokao.

Text/Photos: GTIIT News & Public Affairs