Premier Li Keqiang poses for a selfie taken on Friday by Melissa Ann Kidson, an art student from the United States, at Peking University after an inspection tour of the campus. WU ZHIYI / CHINA DAILY

Premier Li Keqiang urged universities to enhance innovation in scientific research and technological development during visits to top Chinese universities on Friday.

The premier visited Tsinghua University and Peking University, both of which have long enjoyed prestigious reputations among Chinese students and parents.

Several professors at Tsinghua University reported their achievements to the premier in fields such as the internet, gas turbines and new-energy vehicles. To improve scientific research in these fields, the school has introduced a large number of overseas scholars, many of whom are younger than 40.

"As shown in your school song, we have to adopt good aspects from Chinese and Western countries. In promoting innovation, we should do so the same way," Li told the professors.

Collaboration among universities and research institutes is crucial, the premier said. Otherwise, resources will be wasted on similar research programs.

With funds from the government, these institutions can more easily promote innovation in various fields while working together, he added.

Xia Xueluan, a professor of sociology at Peking University, said innovation is a key concept for the premier and the central government as the country seeks new models for economic restructuring.

Hundreds of students at both schools greeted Li during his visit, and he had discussions with them about various fields. He told the students to contribute to social progress in pursuit of social welfare and justice.

The premier took selfie photos with enthusiastic students in the library at Tsinghua University, which will mark its 105th anniversary at the end of this month, and outside the Law School at Peking University.

"Welcome back again," students at Peking University, from which Li earned bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees, told the premier upon his departure in the afternoon. It was Li's first visit to the school as premier.