People visit the Fibrous Materials Science Exploration Hall at Shizhuang Senior Middle School in Rugao. [Photo/WeChat account: rugaofabu]

The Fibrous Materials Science Exploration Hall was inaugurated at Shizhuang Senior Middle School in Rugao, Nantong, Jiangsu province on Jan 27, marking a new step in bringing cutting-edge materials science closer to young students.

The hall was initiated by Zhu Meifang, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, director of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials, and dean of the College of Materials Science and Engineering at Donghua University.

It features four modules — functional fibers, green fibers, smart fibers, and high-performance fibers — creating an interactive space designed for hands-on learning, critical thinking, and open inquiry. Through immersive exhibits and activities, the hall showcases both the scientific rigor and the real-world impact of materials science.

In her remarks, Zhu fondly recalled her own years of study at Shizhuang Senior Middle School. She expressed hope that the exploration hall would serve not only as a place to display materials, but also as an incubator for dreams and a seedbed for innovation.

Zhu said she will work with research teams from the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials at Donghua University to develop courses tailored for middle and high school students. The aim is to encourage them to explore boldly, discover new possibilities, and create with confidence, planting early seeds of curiosity and innovation in the field of materials science.