​The China Manned Space delegation continued their visit to Hong Kong today (November 30) by visiting the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) in groups, and shared the latest developments in national aerospace technologies in the afternoon. The delegation also took part in in-depth discussions with teachers and students on various topics, including aerospace technologies, life in space and astronaut training.

     Led by the leader of the delegation, Mr Lin Xiqiang, seven members of the delegation attended the dialogue session with university teachers and students held at PolyU. Other guests included the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin; the Chairman of the University Grants Committee (UGC), Mr Tim Lui; the Chairman of PolyU Council, Dr Lam Tai-fai; and the President of PolyU, Professor Teng Jin-guang. About 700 PolyU teachers and students actively participated in the event.

     The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, extended her warm welcome to the visit of the China Manned Space delegation. In her speech, Dr Choi said, "Through the efforts of generation after generation, the country has leaped to the forefront of manned space technologies. The indomitable spirit, unwavering determination and relentless efforts of Chinese people have captured the world's attention. The delegation's visit fully demonstrates the nation's care and importance attached to the students of Hong Kong."

     She noted that participants not only have the opportunity to admire the charisma of the astronauts, but also experience the vigorous developments of the motherland in aerospace technologies through the sharing sessions and witnessing the spirit of perseverance and self-improvement of space exploration.

     She believed that the event would undoubtedly deepen society's understanding of the country's development and achievements in aerospace technologies, as well as on Hong Kong's role and contributions in the participation. It will also inspire the younger generation's interests in aerospace technology, and enhance their national consciousness and sense of national identity. 

     She stated, "Under the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the country has expressed clear support for Hong Kong to develop into an international innovation and technology hub and has been determined to establish a comprehensive national science centre in the Greater Bay Area. Last year, the country recruited payload experts in Hong Kong for the first time, which encouraged our young people to contribute to the national aerospace industry. It also signified the high importance and recognition that the country places on scientific research talent in Hong Kong. On this front, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been dedicated to the promotion of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education, aligning with the strategic direction of invigorating the country through science and education. It will shape new driving forces and advantages for development, and cultivate future talent for both the country and Hong Kong."

     Dr Choi also mentioned the various collaborations and developments between PolyU and the national aerospace technology sector. The achievements have demonstrated the synergistic effects generated by academic exchanges and resource sharing between Hong Kong and the Mainland. The Government will fully support mutual collaborations, enhance exchanges and co-operation in scientific research so as to achieve high-level win-win outcomes and take up a crucial role in supporting the country to become the world's leading space-faring nation in a concerted effort.

     Apart from the event at PolyU, nine other members of the delegation also attended an event held at HKUST and met with about 400 teachers and students. HKUST, as the first university in Hong Kong to launch a satellite, has been actively promoting aerospace development in Hong Kong. With its internationally renowned research capabilities, HKUST also collaborated with the industry sector to promote the industrial, academic and research developments of aerospace in the country. Other guests included the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Michelle Li; Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Ms Wu Cheng; the Chairman of the Research Grants Council, Professor Wong Yuk-shan; the Convener of the General Affairs and Management Sub-committee of the UGC, Mr Philip Tsai; the Chairman of the HKUST Council, Professor Harry Shum; and the President of HKUST, Professor Nancy Ip.

     The teachers and students from two universities attending the sessions deemed that the delegation's visit would deepen Hong Kong citizen's understanding of the country's developments and achievements in aerospace technologies, and foster a greater interest in innovative technology among the younger generation. In addition, the visit encouraged post-secondary institutions to actively engage in national scientific research and aerospace developments, and nurture talent for both the country and Hong Kong.

Ends/Thursday, November 30, 2023
Issued at HKT 19:55

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