In an effort to support the national strategy on population ageing, the Faculty of Agroforestry and Medicine (Rural Revitalisation College) of the Open University of China (OUC) has organised an initiative titled "Lectures by Famous Teachers from 100 Universities."

This initiative, along with an academic salon, was designed specifically for the OUC educational system and centred on the theme of "Health and Preservation for the Elderly." The event, aimed at promoting senior health, was conducted through a blend of online and offline formats. It featured presentations and discussions by esteemed academic experts and outstanding young teacher representatives from within the OUC system. Their shared teaching experiences and scientific research accomplishments contribute to advancing healthy ageing.

Professor Ma Shuran, head of the Basic Theory of Chinese Medicine Teaching and Research Department at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, and a chief physician and doctoral supervisor, delivered a special report titled "Healthy Diet for the Elderly." In this report, Ma Shuran provided a thorough analysis of the physiological characteristics of the elderly, highlighting the dietary principles they should follow and the issues they need to be aware of. The focus of the report was on dietary recommendations and cautions for older adults suffering from hypertension and diabetes, offering valuable guidance for their healthy eating habits.

Young scholars also delivered presentations to share their insights, including Professor Li Kun from Beijing Open University, Dr. Li Dan from Hunan Open University, and Dr. Wang Yan from the OUC.

Ma Shuran and Professor Ouyang Yanling, from the Faculty of Agroforestry and Medicine (Rural Revitalisation College) at the OUC headquarters, reviewed and provided guidance on the presentations delivered by three young teachers. Their feedback covered various aspects, including content, verbal expression skills, and the application of digital technology.

Dean Li Guangde of the Faculty of Agroforestry and Medicine (Rural Revitalisation College) at OUC headquarters remarked that this event is part of the "Lectures by Famous Teachers from 100 Universities" series. It also serves as the second academic salon hosted by the Faculty's School of Medicine, focusing on elderly health. This activity allowed us to benefit from the insights of academic experts, fostering the growth of our young teachers. Moreover, it aids the university in nurturing high-quality talent to support the development of a healthy China, actively responding to the national strategy on population ageing.

This initiative plays a crucial role in building cohesion and consensus within the system. It energises and motivates medical programme teachers to delve into discipline and teaching research. Our goal is to cultivate a strong culture of academic research and contribute to the high-quality development of open education.

A total of 101 teachers participated in the event, engaging through both online and offline methods. They unanimously agreed that the event was content-rich and practical, offering valuable insights and guidance for personal health maintenance, as well as academic and teaching research.

The event was presided over by Feng Li, vice dean of the Faculty of Agroforestry and Medicine (Rural Revitalisation College) at OUC Headquarters.

Written by Wu Cui, photographed by Shao Dandan, OUC