A program to reverse the impediments to scientific and technological advancement brought on by the Cultural Revolution in the People's Republic of China is described. The Cultural Revolution impeded progress through the denigration of intellectuals, the closing of schools, and the philosophy that foreign influences were contradictory to the Maoist principle of self-reliance. The report discusses the relevance of educational exchanges to the modernization program, educational developments and change since the death of Zhou Enlai (Chou En' Lai), efforts to improve the image and role of intellectuals, the Cultural Revolution, and the administration of foreign exchange programs. The program calls for advancement in agriculture, industry, science and technology, and defense. It also focuses on development of new sources of energy, computer technology, space science, laser usage, high energy physics, and genetic engineering. To accomplish these goals, Chinese leaders are expanding and modernizing educational facilities and creating an atmosphere conducive to intellectual activity. China has also launched a major effort to send Chinese students abroad for scientific, technological, and language training and to invite foreign specialists to China to lecture, teach, and participate in joint research efforts. (KC)