On March 2, 2025, our Academy ExCo members participated in the Kuk Po Village Beach Revitalization Community Service, a meaningful initiative to support this historic Hakka indigenous village located on a remote island near Sha Tau Kok in the New Territories. Students dedicated their efforts to beach beautification, cleaning up trash and gravel to transform the beach into a clean, walkable and barefoot friendly space where villagers can relax. Students also used shells collected during the clean-up to craft beautiful souvenirs, which they presented to the village head and manager as a token of appreciation.
The visit included a guided tour of Kuk Po, offering students a deeper understanding of the village’s modern history, including how residents defended against pirate invasions and endured the Japanese occupation. This immersive experience highlighted Hong Kong’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Additionally, students explored the village’s eco-toilet, a successful example of balancing revitalization with nature conservation, showcasing how sustainable practices can preserve both community life and the natural environment.
The Kuk Po experience went beyond a simple community service — it served as an invaluable lesson in environmental conservation and the delicate balance between revitalizing communities and preserving Hong Kong’s natural ecology. We are deeply thankful for the chance to contribute to this unique village and to gain insights from its rich history and sustainable practices.
