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“Belt and Road Advanced Programme in Power and Energy 2024” successfully completed

The “Belt and Road Advanced Programme in Power and Energy” (the Programme), co-organised for the seventh consecutive year by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU), the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) and The Hongkong Electric Company, Limited (HK Electric) concluded yesterday with a graduation ceremony. Themed “Low Carbon Transition: Latest Development of Green Energy”, this year’s Programme attracted 26 participants from 7 Belt and Road (B&R) countries and regions, including Chile, Mainland China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Portugal, Russia, and Zimbabwe. Over the course of the 13-day programme, participants engaged in various activities that included lectures, seminars, discussions, experience sharing sessions, as well as field trips in Mainland China and Hong Kong to gain valuable insights into the latest green energy development in the region. The Graduation Ceremony was officiated by Prof. H.C. MAN, Dean of the PolyU Faculty of Engineering; Mr LI Yong, Deputy Director of State Grid Hong Kong Representative Office; Mr WANG Lixin, Deputy President of State Grid Technology College; Ms Liang LI, Chairman of Faculty of Electronic and Information Engineering, Xian Jiaotong University; and Mr Francis C.Y. CHENG, HK Electric Managing Director. The success of the event was witnessed by a number of major partners who have dedicated tremendous support to the Programme, including Ir Frank CHAN, Vice President of Hong Kong Institution of Engineers; Mrs Karina CONCHA, Consul General of Chile in Hong Kong; Mrs Alice MUDUMI, Acting Consul General of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong; Mr Petr LARIONOV, Attaché of the Consulate General of Russia in Hong Kong; and together with other senior executives of the co-organisers. Addressing the audience at the Ceremony, Prof. H.C. Man remarked, “PolyU has been actively contributing to the B&R Initiative in various capacities. As a founding member of the University Alliance of the Silk Road, we are part of a vibrant network of 150 universities across 37 countries, dedicated to promoting collaboration and development along this historic route. With the connections built upon the success of the Programme, we are looking forward to developing new initiatives that will further strengthen our collaborations and extend our networks in the region.” Mr Francis Cheng noted, “For HK Electric, a major milestone was achieved in March this year with the launch of L12, a new gas-fired generating unit. It is a testament to our commitment to reducing coal-fired generation. In line with this commitment, we have retired two old coal-fired units, L4 and L5 earlier this year, allowing us to increase our gas-fired generation to around 70% of our total electricity output. We are poised to progress to the next stage of our energy transition, as we continue to provide safe, reliable, green and affordable electricity to our customers. Currently, we are building a new gas-fired generating unit, L13, and at the same time reinforcing our existing infrastructure. We are glad to share with all the participants of this Programme the challenges we have overcome and those which lie ahead.” Mr Li Yong said, “China is committed to promoting the building of a shared future for mankind, encouraging countries to join hands and share each nation’s development outcomes. The State Grid Corporation of China, as the largest public utility enterprise in the world, actively practises the principles of establishing mutual consultations, setups, and shared benefits in the process of high-quality co-building of the B&R Initiative. We strive to promote the construction of a new power system and actively foster cooperation in the energy sector globally. We also hope that this Programme will become a cooperative platform for sharing and exchanging cutting-edge technologies in the field of electric power and energy, continuously assisting countries and regions along B&R to deepen cooperation and achieve win-win outcomes.” Mr Wang Lixin stated, “Since the proposal of B&R Initiative in 2013, its participating countries and regions have been vibrant hubs of cultural and technological exchanges, allowing different civilisations to learn from and respect each other, and enabling diverse perspectives to co-exist and integrate. Since its launch in 2018, the Porgramme has increasingly become a high-quality platform for international exchanges and interactions amongst electric-power talents, yielding fruitful results and demonstrating great vitality. I sincerely hope that everyone will continue to support and contribute to this platform, thereby further bolstering its reputation.” Ms Liang Li said, “This Programme has been held for seven consecutive years. Through in-depth cooperation among the four co-organisers, it has successfully established a platform that connects engineers, researchers, and managers in the electric power and energy sector while also creating favorable conditions for experience sharing on infrastructure construction and engineering technology research in the power and energy field. This project has not only significantly promoted technical exchanges among the participating organisations but also deepened the friendships among the participants. The four parties have agreed to further strengthen their cooperation and jointly envision the completion of a ten-year programme and then eye on further development, with the aim of co-creating a new digital grid and a better future for all mankind.” While many countries have drawn roadmaps to replace fossil fuel vehicles with electric vehicles, highlights of this year’s Programme included a keynote speech on “New Journey on Green Energy Revolution” by Prof. C.C. CHAN, Distinguished Chair Professor of Electric Vehicles and Smart Energy, and Director of the PolyU Electric Vehicle Research Center, who is also known as “Father of Asian Electric Vehicles”. Prof. Chan noted that the energy revolution refers to the transformation of energy generation, to enhance the efficiency of energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions through low-carbonisation, intelligentisation as well as the electrification and hydrogenation of end-use energy. He pointed out that the current new journey of electric vehicle revolution is from electrification to intelligence and internet connected vehicles. He also explained his theory that the integration of energy networks, information networks, and transportation networks and humanity networks would bring tremendous economic and ecological benefits to the society, addressing sustainability challenges facing the fourth industrial revolution, and hence the evolution from the fourth industrial revolution to fifth industrial revolution. Moreover, the Programme provided participants with the opportunity to visit advanced power facilities, including SGCC’s training facilities in Jinan, the State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment in Xi’an, and HK Electric’s Lamma Power Station, Marsh Road Zone Substation and the Mobile Battery Energy Storage System in Hong Kong. These tours enabled them to explore cutting-edge technologies first-hand and gain a deeper understanding of energy management. Participants were also taken to Centre for Advances in Reliability and Safety (CAiRS) jointly established by PolyU and University of Maryland from the US at the Hong Kong Science Park, and introduced to an artificial intelligence (AI) model co-developed by HK Electric and CAiRS. The model evaluates the probability of cable failures by identifying and analysing their health condition, enabling the prediction of the risk of potential failures of these components. HK Electric reported that, with the introduction of the “Three-hypers Index” and other monitoring technologies, the number of abnormal incidents with high-voltage cables has dropped by 40% over the past few years. This shows that innovative technologies have significantly enhanced power supply reliability. This Programme is a pioneering cross-regional and multi-cultural university-industry collaboration and the first-of-its-kind in both Mainland China and Hong Kong. Since its inception in 2018, the Programme has attracted 830 industry professionals from 44 B&R countries and regions, facilitating more than 10,000 hours of exchanges, both online and offline training, as well as field trips. ***END***

Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Hong Kong shares insights into development of the innovation ecosystem in Belt and Road region at PolyU PReCIT Consul General Talk

The Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted the fifth talk in the “Consul General Talk Series”, which featured a keynote address by Mr Kerim Sercan EVCIN, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Themed “More BRI Engagement in Regional Changing Innovation Ecosystem,” the talk attracted a diverse audience of academics, students, and the general public. The talk was supported by the Department of Applied Social Sciences and Global Engagement Office of PolyU. The talk was also attended by distinguished guests including Mr Nicholas HO, Commissioner for Belt and Road of the Government of HKSAR, and Mr Uğur Öztürk, Consul of the Republic of Türkiye in HKSAR, together with Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Director of PReCIT; Prof. Geoffrey SHEN, PolyU Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships); and Dr Laura LO, PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement). In his remark, Mr Nicholas Ho emphasised that innovation and technology is at the core of Hong Kong’s future and the City’s cental role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Mr Ho mentioned that Hong Kong is collaborating on I&T development with other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, bringing together Hong Kong’s solid R&D capabilities and other cities’ prowess in innovation and advanced manufacturing, to unleash the potential of new quality productive forces. He also said that Hong Kong stands ready to collaborate with Türkiye to embrace new technologies and digital infrastructure. Mr Kerim Sercan Evcin took the stage to discuss the strategic role of Türkiye in the BRI and its implications for the regional innovation landscape. Mr Evcin also shared insightful views on potential areas of cooperation for further engagement between Türkiye and Hong Kong, and how Türkiye and Hong Kong can play an important role in each other’s development. Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of Department of Applied Social Sciences and Co-Director of PReCIT, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in fostering innovation. He said, “As an active participant in BRI, Türkiye has emerged as one of the important players in this transformative project. With its strategic geographic location and its emphasis on trade and economic cooperation, Türkiye has also become a vital link connecting Europe to Asia. Türkiye’s involvement in the BRI has opened up exceptional opportunities for economic growth and technological advancements.” A Turkish PolyU student, Dora Saylıkoğlu, was also invited to speak at the talk. He introduced some aspects of Turkish culture and also shared his enjoyable moments in Hong Kong with all the participants. The Consul General Talk Series is a testament to PolyU’s commitment to global engagement and intellectual exchange. Facilitating the sharing of perspectives by Hong Kong-based diplomats, the series serves as a platform for the PolyU community and the general public to gain insights into the latest I&T policies and prospects in the Belt and Road countries, and paves the way for meaningful partnerships.

PolyU Study Programme in Occupational Therapy Successfully Held in Mongolia with the Support of Belt and Road Funding Scheme

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) organised a Professional Exchange and Immersion Programme in Occupational Therapy in collaboration with the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) from 18 May to 8 June 2024. During the outbound study tour, 20 students from RS visited the School of Nursing at the MNUMS and interacted with the local teachers and students. They visited hospitals and a cancer centre to explore the healthcare and physiotherapy services provided in Mongolia. The students also participated in the Second Mongolian Occupational Therapy International Conference organised by the Mongolian Occupational Therapy Association. In addition, they attended a burn rehabilitation workshop and had the chance to meet with several patients. Besides acquiring professional knowledge, the students enjoyed sightseeing at the national parks and spent a pleasant evening in a gur, a traditional Mongolian traditional dwelling.   Below is some feedback from the students.  “We compared our medical cases with those of Mongolian physiotherapy students and conducted a comprehensive presentation. I realised that we as physiotherapists should transcend borders and languages, promote the development of RS worldwide, and foster collaboration… I am glad to have participated in this exchange programme. I believe that I can make good use of what I have learned in my future career.” -- Chan Ho Lun Ian   “We created tailored assistive devices for local patients. It was thrilling to see one of the patients, who had a traumatic hand injury in which most of the extensor muscles of her dorsal forearm had been cut, return to her occupation of cooking Mongolian cuisine with the help of 3D-printed tools.” -- Yu Yee Ting Atta    “During a visit to the local university, we learned a lot about the history and the leisure activities of Mongolians. For example, as many historically lived in relatively rural places surrounded by mountains and grasslands, they needed to ride their horses frequently and hunt by shooting with arrows. This way of life has gradually evolved into the recreational activities of archery and horseback riding. Physiotherapists in Mongolia need to be familiar with these sports, as many patients may be injured during related activities.” -- Chan Cheuk Wang About PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme The PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme aims to support faculties, schools, departments, and student-related offices in organising thematic curricular and extracurricular activities to promote bilateral student mobility and enrich PolyU students’ Belt and Road experience. Starting from 2023/24, the Scheme has been integrated into the Short-term Non-local Study Fund administered by the Global Engagement Office at PolyU.

PolyU Students Explore Thai Physiotherapy with the Support of Belt and Road Funding Scheme

Fifteen students from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) embarked on a study tour to Thailand from 7 to 12 July 2024. They visited the Physical Therapy Department of Srinakharinwirot University and participated in various activities, including physiotherapy (PT) class observation and language learning sessions. The students visited the Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute to gain insights into its PT department and the assistive devices they use in clinical practice. Their trip was also highlighted by cultural experiences, including a visit to the Grand Palace and the vibrant night markets.   Below are some comments from the participants.  “This exchange opportunity was a memorable one. It was a fruitful learning experience about Thai culture, interacting with local physiotherapy students, and, most importantly, understanding how physiotherapy practice in Thailand is different from that in Hong Kong. Surprisingly, some practical experiences in this journey even changed my previous beliefs about traditional medicine.” -- Wong Ngai Long Ryan   “I had an eye-opening experience at the local university and hospital. Although I did not have much knowledge about the healthcare system in Hong Kong, I now have a better understanding of what is possible…If I had travelled to Thailand on my own, the experience would have been very different. By participating in this programme, I’ve gained a much deeper understanding and appreciation of the country and its culture. I highly recommend this experience to fellow students.” -- SZE Hiu Lee    “This trip has brought a lot of new experiences and joy to me. It has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of both physiotherapy and Thai culture. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Stanley and Jacky for organising such a fruitful exchange trip.” -- Ho Yin Lam   About PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme The PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme aims to support faculties, schools, departments, and student-related offices in organising thematic curricular and extracurricular activities to promote bilateral student mobility and enrich PolyU students’ Belt and Road experience. Starting from 2024/25, the Scheme has been integrated into the Short-term Non-local Study Fund administered by the Global Engagement Office at PolyU.

PolyU Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme 2024

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) places great emphasis on holistic education of young people and on providing them with enriching and diverse learning opportunities, aiming to nurture talents who can drive innovation in the society. To foster high school student interest in research, PolyU organised the fourth “Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme” (JRMP), enabling participants to engage in diverse research projects under the guidance of PolyU academics. A record 180 students from 58 local and international secondary schools were selected to participate in this year’s Programme, supported by 70 academics from various faculties, schools and departments at PolyU. Mentees from JRMP 2024 participated in 30 projects, covering topics related to various fields, including applied social sciences, design, fashion and textiles, hotel and tourism, language, nursing, rehabilitation sciences, as well as various engineering specialisations such as aeronautical engineering, biomedical engineering and building engineering. Over a four-month period, under the guidance of PolyU academic mentors, students gained practical experience in research design, data collection, analysis, and reporting. Through hands-on learning, they developed the skills necessary for successful research endeavours. The programme also included visits to PolyU’s laboratories and classrooms, providing students with exposure to the university’s academic environment and diverse undergraduate offerings, preparing them for their future studies and careers. Prof. Ben YOUNG, PolyU Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), said, “PolyU is committed to leveraging our top-notch academics to support the development of young research talents in Hong Kong. The JRMP is designed to expose secondary school students to research experiences, with the guidance of our esteemed academic staff. Some of them will even have the opportunity to present their research findings at international conferences and make a real impact. Our mentees from last year’s programme submitted their project to the American Association for Applied Linguistics Conference 2024, and presented their research at the conference in the Houston, Texas. It shows that this Programme has sparked a passion for research in students, and I look forward to welcoming them to PolyU, as our students, or even better, as future researchers, to drive impactful innovations for our future.” Supervised by Dr Henry CHU, Associate Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, three students from Po Leung Kuk Ngan Po Ling College and Maryknoll Fathers’ School conducted the research project “Development of a self-driving robot for use in an indoor environment”. Students described their programme experience as “stimulating.” They shared, “As the use of automation and robotics technologies becomes more prevalent, these technologies are having a greater impact on our daily lives. In this project, we had the opportunity to learn how a self-driving car operates, from computer programming to the utilisation of sensors and lidar systems, and even covering the concept of artificial intelligence. This inspired our interest in engineering, and we are keen to study relevant disciplines at the university.” Under the guidance of Prof. YICK Kit Lun, Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT) and Dr SHI Qiuqiong, Research Assistant Professor of the SFT, three students from St Paul’s Convent School and Hong Kong Baptist University Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School learnt how to design sports bras in their research project “Activewear design in the digital age”. They said, “We are all interested in fashion design. This project covered practical design knowledge and introduced us to relevant technological trends. Most impressively, we had the opportunity to use the advanced 4D body scanner and motion capture system with ourselves as models. With these firsthand experiences, we gained a profound insight into the impact of technology on fashion design.” Two students from the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College and Maryknoll Fathers’ School completed the research project “Exploring the attitudes and behaviours of elderly patrons towards self-service technologies in restaurants: A case study of elderly restaurant customers in Hong Kong” under the guidance of Dr Ada LO, Associate Professor of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management. They said, “Our mentor’s guidance was invaluable throughout the project. We gained a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies by actively participating in various stages of the research process, including conducting a thorough literature review, in-depth interviews and data analysis. Our generation is accustomed to self-service technologies, so it is hard for us to imagine the challenges they bring to the elderly. After this experience, we have gained a deeper understanding of issues like social inclusion and how the hospitality and tourism industry can positively impact community well-being. We hope our findings can serve as a reference for the industry in enhancing the elderly’s experience using these technologies.” PolyU launched JRMP in 2021 to introduce high school students to diverse research areas and multidisciplinary knowledge, igniting their passion for inquiry. This initiative aims to nurture a new generation of local innovation and technology (I&T) talent, supporting Hong Kong’s development as an international I&T hub. Since its launch, the Programme has attracted 520 students from 108 local and international secondary schools, who completed a total of 144 research projects. Moving forward, JRMP will expand to welcome more secondary schools and students. Applications will open early next year, with the Programme scheduled to run from April to August. For this year’s programme website, photos and videos, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/geo/prospective-students/undergraduate/local/junior-researcher-mentoring-programme/

A Vibrant Summer at PolyU

Summer is not only a great time for students to relax but also an excellent opportunity to gain exceptional learning experiences and meet new friends from around the world! PolyU’s colourful summer programmes offer young students the opportunity to unlock their potential and gear up for bright futures.   PolyU organised a range of programmes targeting students of different study levels. All these programmes provided local and overseas participants with cherished memories of PolyU and Hong Kong.   This year, the PolyU International Summer School attracted over 400 undergraduates from 20 countries and regions to join this one-month programme. Besides local tours and workshops to experience Hong Kong culture, students delved into credit-bearing courses covering a wide range of topics from Chinese culture, design, and technology to entrepreneurship and leadership, including the subject “Tomorrow’s Leaders”, which has won the QS Reimagine Education Awards and UGC Teaching Award. Students from across borders embarked on an incredible learning and cultural exchange journey.   For high school students, PolyU also offers two engaging summer programmes. The PolyU Summer Institute, now in its second year, welcome over 250 students from 12 countries and regions. Through a five-day residential camp, participants immersed themselves in various attachment programmes. Local students had the opportunity to experience PolyU’s signature Service-Learning programme, contributing to communities in need. International students explored Hong Kong’s cultural landmarks through local tours. Additionally, some students opted for a week-long, credit-bearing “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” course to cultivate an innovative mindset.

PolyU strengthens global partnerships in Southeast Asia

Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) embarked on a trip to Indonesia to connect with its global partners on behalf of the University. This milestone trip underscores PolyU's steadfast commitment to strengthening deeper connections in Southeast Asia and to empowering young talents on the global stage.   During the trip, Prof. Young led academics from the Faculty of Business, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science, as well as an Indonesian PolyU student ambassador, in promoting the University to school principals, counsellors and students from diverse backgrounds. They met with local high schools, presented updates about PolyU, introduced dual-degree and new undergraduate programmes, and shared various support services and opportunities available to students, while the student ambassador shared her inspirational learning experiences at PolyU.   Prof. Young said, “PolyU is committed to building an international learning environment, attracting students from all around the world to study and work in Hong Kong, thereby contributing to the City’s development as an international hub for post-secondary education. We are glad to announce the expansion of our strong networks in Southeast Asia and look forward to further engagement with a broader spectrum of institutions.”

PolyU Expands Global Partnerships with Landmark MoUs in Southeast Asia

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to building an international learning environment, attracting students from around the world to study and work in Hong Kong, and promoting the development of Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education. Recently, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) Prof. Ben Young embarked on a visit to Southeast Asia to broaden PolyU's global partnership network. On 29 July, Prof. Young signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of PolyU with an educational institution in Laos, marking the first educational collaboration between Hong Kong and Laos. The MoU Exchange Ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, Mr Saleumxay Kommasith.   Following this, on 2 August, Prof. Young exchanged MoUs on behalf of PolyU with an educational institution in Vietnam and the Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City. The Chief Executive of HKSAR, Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, and the Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, Mr Phan Van Mai also witnessed this ceremony. These MoUs with educational institutions in Laos and Vietnam aim to provide opportunities for outstanding local students to pursue university education. PolyU will offer a wide array of scholarships, covering up to full tuition fees and providing living allowances, to ensure that promising students can receive a quality university education. Additionally, under the MoU with Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, the two universities will promote exchanges in the fields of research and education, including joint educational activities and sharing academic resources, thereby strengthening collaboration between the institutions in both regions.

University Alliance of the Silk Road Hexi Corridor Study Tour Successfully Held

A group of 30 undergraduate students from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and eight students from Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU) embarked on the Hexi Corridor Study Tour held by the University Alliance of the Silk Road (UASR) on 20 May 2024. The tour was organised by PolyU’s Global Engagement Office (GEO), Xi’an Jiaotong University, the Confucius Institute of Hong Kong (CIHK), and Xi’an Tongli International College (Tongli). Supported by funding from PolyU (Other Study Tour and Field Trip Funding Scheme) and Tongli, the programme provided students with transformative, non-local learning experiences, immersing them in the vibrant culture of the historic Silk Road and fostering long-lasting friendships. The study tour was successfully concluded on 29 May 2024.   During the trip, the students visited renowned cultural heritage sites and natural landscapes spanning five cities in the Hexi Corridor region: Xi’an, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye, and Lanzhou. They visited the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, the Mogao Caves, historic fortresses such as Yang Pass, Yadan National Geologic Park, and Mati Temple, among other sites. The students also participated in a hands-on mural painting workshop to learn about Dunhuang art. In addition, academic exchange seminars were held at XJTU and Lanzhou University to deepen students’ understanding of the Silk Road. Several participants reflected on their experiences during this meaningful trip:   “The Overhanging Great Wall witnessed my friendship with PolyU students. Jiayuguan Pass and the surrounding mountains saw our happiness and bravery. Although parting ways with my friends was not easy at the end of the trip, I know our friendship will continue for years to come.” -- Yang Xudong, XJTU student   “Travelling along the Eastern Silk Road gave me a better understanding of the depth of Chinese history and culture. Each place has its unique charm. In addition to visiting ancient heritage sites, we had the opportunity to talk to locals and learn about their lives and traditions. I can imagine ancient traders and travellers travelling these routes, carrying valuable goods and knowledge. I am starting to appreciate China’s Silk Road even more. It is not only a bridge for economy and trade but also a hub for cultural exchange.”  -- Tsang Wing Lam, PolyU student   “It is better to travel 10,000 miles than read 10,000 books! I felt the footsteps of our ancestors walking along the Hexi Corridor. Standing in the northwest, I finally understood the inclusive nature of Chinese culture. I also grasped the splendour of our heritage and our human civilisation.” -- Liu Ziqiong, PolyU student   University Alliance of the Silk Road Jointly established by XJTU and PolyU in 2015, the UASR is a non-governmental and non-profit alliance aimed at providing an open and international collaborative platform in higher education. By assuming the Vice Presidency of UASR, PolyU takes a leading role in promoting talent development, technology and policy research, cultural exchanges, and medical services among member institutions along the Belt and Road.

PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme Helps Students Expand Their Knowledge of Civil Engineering and Sustainable Development in Thailand

Twenty students from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) embarked on a study trip to Thailand from 7 to 11 January 2024. This educational excursion was supported by the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme, which is administered by the Global Engagement Office (GEO). Through the immersive experience, the students acquired a deep understanding of the latest advances in civil engineering and sustainable development, enabling them to make informed comparisons between the industries in Bangkok and Hong Kong. During the trip, the students visited King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) and various local industry sites and engaged in cultural exploration alongside the KMUTT staff and students.   Below are some comments from the participants. “My study tour in Bangkok was eye-opening. One of the highlights was a visit to the Grand Palace, where I was in awe of the intricate architecture and beautiful design. In addition, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture through interacting with students from KMUTT. By engaging in meaningful discussions with professionals, I also expanded my knowledge of civil engineering. Overall, the study tour in Bangkok was a valuable and unforgettable experience!” -- Crement Leung   “My trip to Thailand provided me with valuable experiences that far surpassed what I could have learned in a classroom setting. Being able to explore the country first-hand allowed me to appreciate the buildings and temples that are deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. Moreover, the rapid development of Thailand's transport systems and highways was remarkable. The bustling streets and markets depicted a colourful society...What truly made this journey special were the friendships I made along the way. This experience has left an indelible mark on me.” -- John Enriquez   “One of the most memorable stories was interacting with local students at KMUTT, where each student was working on an individual creative project. I was astonished by their hands-on capabilities in tackling problems and discovering innovative solutions. I was inspired by their willpower and resourcefulness.” -- Chung Cheuk Lun About PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme The PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme aims to support faculties, schools, departments, and student-related offices in organising thematic curricular and extracurricular activities to promote bilateral student mobility and enrich PolyU students’ Belt and Road experience. The Scheme is administered by the Global Engagement Office at PolyU.