Recently, the Planning and Management Office of the National Publication Foundation (NPF) announced its list of projects approved for funding in 2024.
Among the selected projects is OUC's premier resource, "Looking Back at a Century: Exploring China." This topic stems from the university's signature programme, the "Academician Lecture Hall," and is spearheaded by the Learning Resources Department. The production and publication responsibilities fall to the Multimedia Press of the Open University of China (OUC).
To fully embody the principles outlined in the report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which emphasises "rooting in the historical and cultural soil of our country and nation" and "deepening exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations," OUC has taken the initiative to invite Zhang Haipeng, a member of the Academic Divisions at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), and Yu Heping, a researcher from the Institute of Modern History at CASS, to conduct a series of lectures titled "Looking Back at a Century: Exploring China". The series will delve into various historical domains including the origins of civilization, political and cultural history, the evolution of political systems, changes in social life, and the history of China’s interactions with other nations. By highlighting key historical events, phenomena, and figures at crucial junctures, it aims to showcase the development of history through engaging stories, comprehensive historical records, and insightful analysis. The lectures are designed to examine the interconnections between different events or phenomena, offering deep historical perspectives.
Zhang Haipeng, a member of the Academic Divisions, CASS, and a researcher at the Institute of Modern History, CASS
Yu Heping, a researcher at the Institute of Modern History, CASS
"Looking Back at a Century: Exploring China" features lectures from experts, extensive historical documentary materials, and innovative audio-visual methods, integrating elements of knowledge, insight, academia, and information. It documents the research accomplishments and scholarly grace of these experts, making it a valuable intellectual and cultural asset with high academic, humanistic, and original value.
The National Publication Foundation (NPF) is reported to be the third special fund named by the state, following the National Social Science Fund and the National Natural Science Foundation. Its primary aim is to support the publication of exceptional public welfare publications, focusing mainly on book publishing, while also covering a small selection of audio-visual products and electronic publications. Its chief support is directed towards publishing projects that represent the pinnacle of China's publishing field, characterized by profound thought, exquisite artistry, and outstanding production quality. Priority is given to publishing projects that are creative and innovative in both content and technology.
Learning Resources Department, Multimedia Press, OUC