State Councilor Liu Yandong on Sunday asked Chinese universities to put more emphasis on the creation of their unique characteristic and speed up innovation.

"We should summarize the great achievements and helpful experiences in the higher education field after the country's 30 years of reform and opening-up, and have a deep understanding of the new trend and task," Liu told a symposium held by the Ministry of Education and Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee.

All universities should carry out the people-oriented concept, Liu added.

Liu urged university authorities to raise their ability of developing universities in a scientific way.

(Xinhua News Agency July 21, 2008)