On November 11, Sias' Academic Research Office and Faculty Development Center jointly held a special lecture on the ways and means for teachers in universities to improve their scientific research ability. The lecture was held to improve the research ability and thereby improve the quality of research projects of teachers at Sias through cooperation with National Social Science Fund projects, and the Humanities & Social Sciences projects from the Ministry of Education.

Geng Mingzhai, a senior professor at Henan University, was invited to present a special report on the problems faced in the application of National Social Science Fund projects, the transformation of social science research methods, and the ways and means of improving university teachers' research. Sias Vice President, Zhao Yuxin, delivered a speech on behalf of the university and presided over the meeting. Over 200 leaders from teaching and research departments, heads of research institutions, and teachers attended the meeting.

Geng Mingzhai began by speaking about National Social Science Fund projects, how to select topics, presentations, and how to change research methods. He then spoke about the new directions in social science research that were being undertaken by colleges and universities and the methods that teachers could use to improve their research. He also introduced the basic classifications of the National Social Science Fund projects. He concluded by speaking about how to be realistic and solve difficulties in social science research at colleges and universities.

Zhao Yuxin spoke of the achievements of Prof. Geng and the practicality and applicability of the content of his lecture. He encouraged those present to use it for guidance and to improve their research methodology and ability.