From April 23 to 26, 2025, a delegation from Saint Francis University (SFU) visited Xiangyang, Hubei Province, at the invitation of the Xiangyang Youth Science and Technology Education Association. Led by Dr. Aries Chan, Head of the Global and Mainland Engagement Division, the delegation aimed to deepen partnerships across multiple sectors, particularly in education, culture, science, and talent development.
Government Collaboration
During their visit, the delegation held in-depth discussions with the Xiangyang Bureau of Science and Education. Both sides explored future opportunities for collaboration, especially in curriculum development and cultural exchange. The Bureau expressed strong interest in launching joint programmes during the upcoming summer period to enhance mutual educational engagement.
The delegation also visited the Xiangyang Science and Technology Museum. Impressed by the facility's innovative exhibits and educational outreach, SFU representatives saw promising potential for future cooperation in science education. Both parties agreed that cross-regional science initiatives could foster a more innovative learning environment.
University Partnership
A key part of the visit was a meeting with senior leadership from the Hubei University of Arts and Science. Both institutions explored the possibility of joint academic programmes, student exchanges, and collaborative research projects. The leadership team expressed enthusiasm for establishing a long-term partnership that would expand opportunities for students in both Hong Kong and Mainland China.
School-Level Exchanges
The SFU delegation also visited four secondary schools in Xiangyang: ChuHan Senior High School, Xiangyang No. 1 Middle School, Wuhan Maple Leaf International School, and Xiangyang Senior High School. The team gained insights into the schools' unique educational models and student development strategies. They exchanged views with administrators on potential partnerships including teacher-student exchange initiatives and joint teaching programmes. These efforts aim to broaden cultural understanding and promote international exposure for secondary students.
Throughout the visit, the SFU team actively promoted the unique strengths of Hong Kong's education system, highlighting SFU's commitment to global engagement and academic innovation. The delegation emphasized the university's mission to serve as a bridge for meaningful cross-regional collaboration.
The successful visit to Xiangyang has paved the way for sustained cooperation between SFU and the region's educational and scientific institutions. SFU will continue to cultivate international collaboration through strategic partnerships, with the goal of nurturing globally minded talents and contributing to the advancement of integrated, innovative education.