Seven students and representatives from the Global and Mainland Engagement Division of Saint Francis University were honored to be invited to participate in the "Hand in Hand 2025 – Hong Kong Youth Art-Sailing Technology and Cultural Exchange Tour to Hubei", embarking on a week-long journey to gain a deeper understanding of China's advancements in technological innovation and rich cultural heritage.
Held from 23 to 30 May 2025, the programme was sponsored by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau and the Youth Development Commission, and organized by Art Sailing Cultural Associations. It brought together 44 youth representatives from Hong Kong, including students from Saint Francis University, for an immersive exchange experience in Wuhan and Xiangyang, Hubei Province. The delegation was honored to be accompanied during the programme by Qiao Yongjun, the Deputy Director of the Xiangyang Science and Technology Bureau, underscoring the significance and recognition of the initiative.
During their time in Wuhan, participants visited several leading academic institutions and research organizations, including Wuhan University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, and Hubei University of Arts and Science, where they explored China's breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and optoelectronic technologies. The students also toured the Wuhan Artificial Intelligence Computing Centre and Supercomputing Centre, witnessing the operation of national-level infrastructure and engaging directly with AI systems—offering them invaluable hands-on learning opportunities.
The delegation then travelled to Xiangyang to further explore how innovation is applied in education and agriculture. Students visited the Xiangyang Auto Vocational Technical College and the Xiangyang National Agricultural High-Tech Industry Demonstration Zone, gaining insight into how emerging technologies are seamlessly integrated with practical education and regional development. At the Longzhong Laboratory, students operated 3D printing equipment and observed nanotechnology demonstrations, translating classroom knowledge into real-world application. During the visit, the group was also invited to be interviewed by Xiangyang Television Station, where they shared their reflections and insights.
Beyond scientific and academic visits, the exchange placed strong emphasis on cultural understanding. Students ascended the historic Yellow Crane Tower, visited the Hubei Provincial Museum, and explored the Wuchang Uprising Memorial Hall of Xinhai Revolution, where artifacts and narratives shed light on modern Chinese history and the enduring national spirit.
To deepen students' cultural awareness and sense of national identity, Saint Francis University officially launched its "Cultural Ambassador Programme" during the trip. Led by students, the initiative aims to promote intercultural participation and cross-regional understanding. The seven selected student representatives actively engaged in all activities, embodying the university's values of openness, diversity, academic curiosity, and social responsibility.
Participation in "Hand in Hand 2025" reflects Saint Francis University's strong commitment to experiential learning and civic education, and marks a significant milestone in its efforts to promote academic and cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Mainland China. The Global and Mainland Engagement Division will continue to expand similar platforms for exchange, leveraging the Cultural Ambassador Programme to cultivate globally minded, socially engaged, and nationally connected young leaders, and to advance long-term cooperation and integration between the two regions.