An opening ceremony of China's yearly national science week, which is scheduled for May 14-20, was held in Macao on Saturday.

Chen Futao, representative of the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, told the gathering that it is the first time for Macao to be covered in the science publicity campaign.

Chen encouraged Macao people, the youth in particular, to participate in more science activities.

Yang Junwen, an official with Macao's Committee of Science and Technology, said at the ceremony that the science week will hopefully help boost the region's fancy for science and technology.

Macao people, during the week, will participate in the series of activities, covering an interactive exhibition for improving public scientific awareness, a technology live show and a variety of scientific lectures, said the official.

Edmund Ho Hau Wah, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, officials with the central and local governments, scientific professionals and students attended the function.

The Chinese government has launched the nationwide science publicity program since 2001.

(Xinhua News Agency May 14, 2005)