UNESCO Adopts Resolution to Commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Gu Fangzhou's Birth

Beijing, December 29 -- At its 43rd General Assembly, the UNESCO officially approved a resolution -- proposed by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) -- to include the centenary commemoration of Dr. Gu Fangzhou among its official series of international memorial events.

This marks the second time China has successfully secured UNESCO recognition for a scientist's birth anniversary, following the earlier commemoration of Liu Hui. The initiative has garnered strong support from Cambodia, France, Italy, and Thailand.

Dr. Gu Fangzhou was a pioneering Chinese virologist who dedicated his life to the prevention and control of poliomyelitis (polio). He was the first in China to isolate the poliovirus and went on to develop the oral polio vaccine in sugar pellet form—affectionately known as the “sugar pill.”

His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for China's successful eradication of polio, earning him the endearing nickname “Grandpa Sugar Pill” among the Chinese public.

Beyond national borders, Dr. Gu's contributions provided invaluable insights and inspiration for global polio eradication efforts, bolstering confidence worldwide in the fight against the disease.

The centenary commemorative activities are scheduled to take place between 2026 and 2027, with events planned in China, France, Italy, and other countries. The program will bring together virologists, medical researchers, and public health experts from around the world.

By honoring Dr. Gu's legacy of scientific dedication, patriotism, and humanitarianism, the initiative aims to highlight the global responsibility of Chinese scientists, foster international collaboration in public health, and advance the shared goal of improving human health worldwide.

Tags: Department of International Affairs of CAST, National Communication Center for Science and Technology affiliated with CAST