HFPJC, Lee Woo Sing College, and Diligentia College co-organised a 3-day Green Camp at the Chinese University of Hong Kong

In a collaborative effort to promote green life, sustainability and environmental awareness, the HFPJC of the University of Macau (UM), the LWSC of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and the DC of the CUHK (Shenzhen) co-organised a three-day Green Camp from 27 July to 29 July 2024.

The camp, which brought together students and staff from the three colleges, commenced with opening remarks from representatives of each participating unit. This was followed by a series of informative talks and engaging discussions centred on the pressing need for environmental protection and sustainable practices. “The camp provided a valuable platform for us to learn from experts in the field and gain a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges we face,” said Athena Lam, President of HFPJC House Association. “The emphasis on real-world examples, especially those from Hong Kong, really helped to contextualize the issues and inspire us to take action.” Indeed, the camp’s agenda featured in-depth examinations of renewable energy initiatives, conservation efforts, and innovative approaches to pollution mitigation – all of which underscored the critical importance of collective action.

The second day of the camp saw participants venturing out to explore tangible examples of sustainability in action. The group first visited a nearby zero-carbon park, where they witnessed first-hand the integration of eco-friendly design and the incorporation of native plant life to create vibrant, environmentally conscious public spaces. In the afternoon, the team travelled to an organic farm, where they gained hands-on experience with sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and the reduction of chemical inputs.

Throughout the camp, participants engaged in lively discussions and reflections, sharing their personal experiences, concerns, and ideas for positive change. The sense of community and shared purpose was palpable, and many left the camp feeling inspired and empowered to take concrete steps towards global competitiveness and a more environmentally conscious healthy lifestyle. This event also established a basis for interaction and exchange among students from the three colleges, forged friendships and expanded their networks.

A delegation of 18 members from Henry Fok Pearl Jubilee College (referred to as “Pearl Jubilee College”) of University of Macau embarked on a visit to Xiuzhong College of Tsinghua University recently. Led by College Associate Master Dr. Vivian Jiang, the exchange program aimed to provide a platform for students from both Colleges to engage in comprehensive and in-depth exchanges and collaborations regarding college education, innovative practices, cultural education, and sustainable development.

On the anniversary of Macau’s return, students and teachers from Pearl Jubilee College and Xiuzhong College visited the Beijing Office of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macau Special Administrative Region, where they received a warm reception from Director Ci Chen of the Exchange Office. During the visit, the delegation learned about the situation of Macau students studying in northern universities and received an introduction to the Macau Student Home. Together, they engaged in discussions and shared their perspectives on the significant meaning of Macau’s return and the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, experiencing the care and support from their motherland and demonstrating the unity and cohesion among Macau students. Additionally, Pearl Jubilee College students participated in the Macau Cultural Promotion Day organized by Macau students in Tsinghua University, celebrating the 24th anniversary of Macau’s return.

During the visit, Pearl Jubilee College students took part in Sustainable Development Academic Festival organized by Xiuzhong College. Zhang Qi Yue, a representative from Pearl Jubilee College, delivered a presentation titled “Green Regenerative Soap: Sustainable Initiatives among Hotels, NGOs, and Universities,” engaging in profound discussions with experts, scholars, and students present. The topics covered the importance and challenges of sustainable development. Moreover, a symposium was held, where students from two Colleges exchanged ideas on the preservation of Macau’s cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, inspiring innovative approaches in sustainable tourism development.

Led by Xiuzhong College students, the delegation from Pearl Jubilee College explored Tsinghua University’s campus, including the Historical Exhibition Hall, Art Museum, Science Museum, and Engineering Training Center. In-depth discussions were held regarding the development of student organizations in the Colleges, providing a comprehensive understanding of Tsinghua University’s academic atmosphere, research capabilities, and Xiuzhong College’s distinctive features and academic principles. The students from both colleges celebrated the Winter Solstice together, participated in ice skating activities, and enjoyed a New Year’s concert, enhancing their friendship in a joyful atmosphere.

To enhance their understanding of the mother country, Pearl Jubilee College delegation visited significant historical landmarks such as Tiananmen Square, the National Museum of China, and the Forbidden City. This immersive experience deepened their knowledge of Chinese history and culture, and further strengthened their connection and sense of belonging to the motherland.

This exchange visit between Henry Fok Pearl Jubilee College and Xiuzhong College marks the first exchange program since the establishment of their sister colleges relationship. Xiuzhong College will pay a return visit to Pearl Jubilee College in January 2024 as planned. The exchange activities not only deepened the friendship and collaboration between the two Colleges, but also provided students with an opportunity to broaden their horizons and share experiences. Both colleges will further promote closer and more in-depth exchanges and cooperation in the future, advancing the development and innovation of the college system, and cultivating more outstanding talents with international perspectives and innovative spirits.