Belt and Road News

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. 

PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences Sign MoU to Establish First Collaboration with a Mongolian Tertiary Institution

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy of the School of Nursing of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15 January 2024, to strengthen the collaboration of both parties and signify an important step forward in contributing to the Nation’s Belt and Road Initiative.   Prof. Kwok-yin WONG, Vice President (Education) of PolyU said in his welcome speech, “We are pleased to announce that the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences is the first tertiary institution in Mongolia to collaborate with PolyU. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences for their efforts in forging connections between the University and Mongolia.”   In May 2023, twelve RS students took part in a study trip to MNUMS to learn about occupational therapy, with the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme administered by PolyU’s Global Engagement Office (GEO). PolyU is confident in expanding and enhancing its cooperation with MNUMS in the future and looks forward to forging closer bonds with other universities in the Belt and Road.   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. 

PolyU hosts UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance Belt and Road Session 2023

On 7 December 2023, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted the University Alliance of the Silk Road (UASR) Tourism Sub-Alliance Belt and Road Session 2023 at SHTM in collaboration with the Global Engagement Office (GEO). The aim of this series of conference sessions is to establish a platform for academic exchange on the tourism and hospitality industry among UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance members and representatives of Belt and Road higher education institutions. With the support of the PolyU Network Initiative Scheme, administered by GEO, this Belt and Road Session was held in conjunction with IMPACT2023 Conference organised by SHTM, its Hospitality and Tourism Research Centre, and STR.   At the opening ceremony, Professor Kaye Chon, Dean of SHTM, welcomed the Session’s participants and invited them to share their insights into advancing tourism development in the Belt and Road region. Ten speakers from nine universities presented their disciplinary research findings and practices, sparking fruitful discussion of strategies to promote sustainability, revitalisation, and resilience in the tourism industry post-pandemic. The participating institutions included Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU), Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU), Mae Fah Luang University (MFU), Chengdu University (CDU), the University of Tabuk (UT), Duy Tan University (DTU), STP Bandung, Palembang Tourism Polytechnic, and the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage.   PolyU has established strong partnerships with tertiary and research institutions worldwide, actively contributing to education, research, and knowledge transfer on a global scale. Apart from being the Co-founder and Vice-President of the UASR, PolyU was appointed as UASR’s Rotating President in 2023. The UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance was initiated by SHTM in 2019 and currently comprises PolyU, XJTU, KazNU, MFU, and CDU.

PolyU Joined the Alliance of International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) joined the Alliance of International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions (ANSO) as a member at the Alliance’s 3rd General Assembly of 4–5 November 2023.   ANSO was established in 2018 by the Chinese Academy of Sciences with the support of 36 other national academies, research institutions, universities and international organisations from around the world. It is a comprehensive international science and technology organisation, established under the Belt and Road Initiative, that supports the achievement of sustainable social, economic and environmental development. ANSO currently consists of 78 member institutions from 55 countries. By joining ANSO, PolyU will strengthen its collaborations with a global network of national academies of sciences, universities, research institutes and international organisations seeking to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals through science, technology, innovation and capacity building.  

Chengdu University Students Participate in PolyU Study Programme through the Belt and Road Funding Scheme

Ten students from the School of Tourism and Culture Industry at Chengdu University embarked on an enriching educational visit to the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) from 6 to 19 August 2023 to deepen their understanding of tourism and marketing. The visit was made possible with the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme, administered by the Global Engagement Office (GEO). During the visit, the students attended lectures, collaborated on research projects and visited local hotels to gain valuable insight into tourism management. Working alongside SHTM students from PolyU, they collectively developed marketing recommendations to promote Hong Kong as an attractive destination for the Chengdu community.   Below is some of the feedback from the participants.   “I have many beautiful and profound memories of Hong Kong from these 14 days. The workshop at the SHTM impressed me the most, as I had never participated in such a workshop in Chengdu. In the SHTM’s Vinoteca Lab and Bistro1979, I mixed and tasted alcohol and beverages, set the dining table, learned to distinguish between different knives and forks, and practised serving. I was able to combine theoretical and practical learning”. -- Zou Xueying   “I’m writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible experience and opportunities. The academic atmosphere at PolyU was truly exceptional. The professors were not only knowledgeable but also passionate about their subjects, creating an inspiring learning environment. I could feel that they really wanted to teach us something and make us learn something from their lessons. The courses offered me a deeper understanding of hospitality.” -- Chen Xingyu   “The SHTM has always been my dream school, and I am fortunate to have been involved in this project and have close connections with the SHTM and PolyU. We all completed our tasks in an atmosphere of harmonious and pleasant teamwork, ultimately bringing our entire project to fruition. Through this process, I feel that my leadership skills improved”.    -- He Bingxue   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. 

Chulalongkorn University Student Interns at PolyU through the Belt and Road Funding Scheme

A student from Chulalongkorn University of Thailand carried out a two-month research internship at the Department of Mechanical Engineering of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) from 3 July to 25 August 2023. The visit was made possible by the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme, administered by the Global Engagement Office (GEO). Focusing on the design and development of fuel cells for green power generation, Ms Benyapa Yawanopas said that the internship refined her technical expertise and research skills in the field of alternative energy solutions. Below is Benyapa’s feedback on her overall experience at PolyU.   “It was an incredibly enriching experience that advanced my professional growth, expanded my cross-cultural learning, and promoted my personal development. Effectively, this internship introduced me to a new area of study, sustainable energy research. Cross-cultural learning was an integral component of my experience. Collaborating with a diverse team of international colleagues allowed me to appreciate the global nature of the energy industry. The exchange of ideas and perspectives enhanced my adaptability, communication skills, and ability to work effectively in today’s interconnected world”.   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. 

PolyU Students Attend International Summer School in Nanjing Through Belt and Road Funding Scheme

Nineteen students from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) joined the International Summer School on AI organised by Southeast University from 14 to 18 May 2023 in Nanjing. The visit was made possible with the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme administered by the Global Engagement Office (GEO). Lectures gave the students insights into topics such as machine learning, knowledge graphs, and human-computer interaction. They also visited facilities including Hauwei Nanjing Research Center, NR Electric, and Purple Mountain Laboratories, and toured famous sites like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace in Nanjing. Cultural exchanges involving students at Southeast University also took place. Several students shared their experiences after the visit.   “This tour gave me a fruitful experience in Nanjing. I had the chance to study in a different university, meet new friends, and learn the culture of Nanjing. Moreover, this tour broadened my views about China’s technological development.”    “We learned a lot and experienced the history and culture of Nanjing. I think it was a very valuable experience for us and I am looking forward to more such opportunities in the future to learn more about Mainland China.” “Not only did I visit the scenic attractions, but I also had a chance to broaden my perspectives by communicating with locals. Visiting famous companies in China gave me a deeper understanding of my future career path and how learning about technology influences society.”  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. More details about the Scheme can be found here.

PolyU Students Explore Business Management in Mainland China Through Belt and Road Funding Scheme

Thirteen students from the Department of Management and Marketing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) took part in a field trip to Dongguan in Mainland China that ran from 5 to 9 June 2023 to bolster their understanding of practical business management. The participants learned about business models and management strategies from senior executives at seven local companies. They also teamed up with final year students from Guangdong University of Science and Technology to carry out market research to formulate their own start-up business proposals. At the end of the trip, the students presented their business proposals to the senior executives of the organisations visited. Several students shared their views of the trip.     “Through this field trip, I have gained valuable inspiration. It not only prompted me to consider sustainable business practices from a business student’s perspective, but also encouraged me to adopt sustainable behaviour in my daily life as a consumer. As a business practitioner, it is essential to focus not only on profit but also on minimising the negative effect on the environment, as sustainable business development can lead to long-term benefits. During the five-day trip, I was impressed by the support from both society and the government for innovation and entrepreneurship in the Greater Bay Area. The experience further strengthened my determination to establish myself as an entrepreneur in the Greater Bay Area.” -- Liang Yuchen Esther   ‘“The most significant experience I had was the insight I gained from exchanges with mainland students. Students and teachers from different departments in the mainland have jointly established an entrepreneurial plan for rural China and successfully progressed it for five years… This made me understand that actions can make people grow, and they have more experience and inspiration, instead of being limited to learning from books.”    -- Yeung Chun Ho    “During the five-day study week, the most impressive experience for me was the visit to Guangdong Dongguan Science and Technology Co., Ltd. In the e-CNY section, there were different electronic payment instruments ranging from the oldest to the most advanced. I was most pleasantly surprised to come across a payment method that I had never seen before…I am optimistic about the business opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. The large market in the Greater Bay Area, coupled with attractive career development opportunities and a vibrant working environment, all these advantages have encouraged me to develop my ambitions in the Greater Bay Area.” -- Cheung Hoi Ying 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. More details about the Scheme can be found here.

PolyU Students Learn About Occupational Therapy in Mongolia Through Belt and Road Funding Scheme

Twelve students from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) took part in a study trip to Mongolia from 14 to 18 May 2023 to learn about occupational therapy (OT). The visit was made possible with the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Funding Scheme, administered by the Global Engagement Office (GEO). The students delivered presentations and conducted workshops at the First Mongolian International Occupational Therapy Conference, during which they exchanged ideas with global OT specialists. In addition, the students visited local rehabilitation hospitals and the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. Cultural exchanges with local students were also held as the two parties explored community sites and attractions in Ulaanbaatar together. Below are some comments from the participants.    “I was overjoyed by the amount of knowledge I gained. It was an eye-opening experience to see how occupational therapy can be practiced differently in various cultures. I was inspired by the presentations and workshops, which provided me with practical and innovative approaches to enhance my OT knowledge. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and to collaborate with colleagues from different parts of the world. This trip undoubtedly expanded my horizons and motivated me to continue learning and growing in my field.” -- Chan Weng U   It was an unforgettable and meaningful journey in Mongolia. As an OT student, it was my great honour to attend the First International Conference of Mongolia Occupational Therapy Association. During the conference, we heard from occupational therapists from Mongolia and their efforts in the profession, and researchers from countries such as Japan and Switzerland shared their research. Most importantly, at the post-conference dinner night we were given the valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with participants like professors, local therapists and other healthcare professionals.” -- Lau Hoi Ming Annie   “This conference gave us a chance to listen to professors from other countries, such as Professor Bumsuk Lee from Gunma University and Professor Christiane Mentrup from Zurich University of Applied Sciences. This reinforced my knowledge and enhanced my understanding of the application and effectiveness of different techniques in the community, such as CIMT (Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy) for stroke patients and strategies for treating adult patients with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder).”    -- Yau Ka Yi 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. More details about the Scheme can be found here.