From 18 to 26 May 2024, a group of 53 students and academic staff from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) embarked on a nine-day service-learning programme at Yanglou Dong Primary School in Chibi City, Hubei, China. The aim of this programme is to support the rural education development through hands-on teaching and practical experiences, fostering cultural exchange and emotional integration among the students and faculty.
During the service-learning period, the PolyU students and faculty members engaged in meaningful interactions and learning activities with the students of Yanglou Dong Primary School. Our students brought advanced educational concepts and teaching methods, providing the local students with enriching and diverse learning experiences. The curriculum covered various subjects, including science, geography, English, arts, music, and physical education, aiming to broaden the students' horizons and stimulate their interest in multiple disciplines.
Throughout the activities, the PolyU students not only imparted knowledge but also formed deep friendships with the primary school students. They attended classes and played together, becoming both mentors and friends. The local students warmly welcomed and expressed sincere gratitude to us, hoping to have more opportunities in the future to learn and interact with them.
Additionally, the PolyU students also had exchanges with students from Wuhan University and the University of Hong Kong. Together, they discussed the current state and challenges of educational development and shared their teaching experiences and methods. This exchange not only deepened mutual understanding and friendship but also laid a solid foundation for future cooperation and communication.
Our department highly values this service-learning programme, Dr. Lai Wai Lok, Associate Head (Teaching) and Associate Professor of LSGI, stated that this programme is not only an educational support initiative but also an opportunity for cultural exchange and emotional connection. Through such activities, more students and faculty members can understand the current conditions and needs of rural education and contribute their efforts to its development.
Principal Yina of Yanglou Dong Primary School expressed heartfelt gratitude for the visit by the PolyU students and faculty. She noted that this activity provided unprecedented learning experiences and opportunities for the school's students, which is significant for improving the school's teaching quality and promoting the comprehensive development of students.
The successful implementation of this service-learning programme by the Department of LSGI at PolyU at Yanglou Dong Primary School not only injected new vitality into rural education development but also provided valuable learning and exchange opportunities for both students and faculty. It is believed that such activities will continue to emerge in our lives, making greater contributions to the advancement of education in the future.