PolyU Students Visit Thailand to Study Local Civil Engineering Practices

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) organised a study tour to Thailand from 5 to 11 January 2025, providing 20 students with an unforgettable learning experience. The study tour was supported by the PolyU Short-term Non-local Study Fund, administered by the Global Engagement Office. By engaging with professors and students at the King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), the students gained valuable insights into Thailand’s civil engineering advancements, particularly the rapid development of its transportation systems. The students also had the opportunity to design their own two-day itinerary. They explored an MRT subway construction site to learn about a flood diversion project and were able to compare the sustainable civil engineering practices and cultures of Bangkok and Hong Kong.

Our students were enthusiastic about this fantastic opportunity:

“The CEE Thailand Study Tour was an extraordinary experience that broadened my understanding of civil engineering within a vibrant cultural setting. At KMUTT, we explored innovative construction methods and 3D scanning technologies and gained invaluable hands-on experience. Observing the impressive Tunnel Boring Machine at the MRT Subway Project in Bangkok’s downtown area further enhanced my understanding of contemporary engineering practices.”

-- Marjan Refayee

“Although I have visited Thailand many times, this trip gave me a truly unique perspective. Touring the MRT subway construction site five storeys underground was an awe-inspiring experience that showcased the complexity and scale of urban infrastructure projects. Our visit to the hydraulic engineering project in Ayutthaya also underscored the crucial role engineers play in city development and flood management, and it inspired me to embrace the vision and mindset necessary for an engineer. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate in this study tour, which broadened my understanding of civil engineering and sustainable city planning. I am also thankful to Prof. Chen and our tour guide for ensuring our safety and providing exceptional guidance throughout the journey.”

-- Mattson Tsang

“The Thailand Study Tour was a remarkable experience that seamlessly blended learning and enjoyment. Observing the efficient railway system and visiting the vibrant Benjakitti Forest Park gave me a fresh perspective on Thailand’s innovative civil engineering practices. Beyond its appeal as a travel destination, Thailand offers unique opportunities to explore advanced engineering solutions and sustainable development. This journey deepened my appreciation of the country’s engineering achievements and sparked my interest in potential career opportunities in this field. I am eager to learn more about Thailand’s advancements in civil engineering and am considering the possibility of working here in the future.”

-- Tong Ding

About the PolyU Short-term Non-local Study Fund

The PolyU Short-term Non-local Study Fund aims to support PolyU undergraduate students to participate in various short-term non-local study activities. The fund provides a sponsorship of HK$4,500 for each student to cover costs related to credit-bearing or formally assessed learning activities that promote students’ global perspectives and multicultural competency.