‘Connecting Asia for A Sustainable Future Joint Summer Camp (JSC) – Unique Experience in Thailand, Hong Kong and Japan’ – Second Week at The University of Hong Kong

21 September 2023

The University of Hong Kong Summer Institute hosted the Hong Kong programme for the Joint Summer Camp (JSC) students from 23 – 29 July 2023 under the theme ‘Sustainability and Circular Economy’. This year, the joint summer programme was held on HKU main campus for the first time with various activities. Through workshops, seminars, field trips and SDG games, students are encouraged to foster intercultural communication and promote collaborative problem-solving skills to tackle sustainability challenges in the Asian region and beyond. 

One of the highlights was the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) visit. JSC students had a tour of the institute’s laboratory facilities and a glimpse of how the institute contributes to marine research. JSC students also explored the edge of Hong Kong’s only marine reserve and observed the rocky shore habitat.   

JSC students also participated in lectures and workshops on biodiversity, sustainability challenges, corporate governance and system thinking. These sessions expanded the JSC student’s knowledge to embrace a holistic approach to decision-making, and encouraged them to help tackle climate change and environmental issues.  

‘Biodiversity and Environmental Education – Core in Achieving Sustainability’, workshop by Dr. Xoni Ma
Board Game Learning Activities – <Law of the Forest>

Through the workshops and board games, the JSC students had the chance to understand the importance of biodiversity and how we can implement Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) effectively with the threefold approach, with practical examples in Hong Kong’s education sector, commercial sector and the government.

The JSC students participated in ‘2030 SDGs Game’ 

The ‘2030 SDGs Game’ is a multiplayer card game that simulates the world into the year 2030, and aims to educate and raise awareness of the JSC students about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Field Trip – The Swire Institute of Marine Science, workshop by Dr. Philip Thompson
Field Trip – The Swire Institute of Marine Science, workshop by Dr. Philip Thompson
Field Trip – The Swire Institute of Marine Science
Field Trip – The Swire Institute of Marine Science

The JSC students visited The Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS). This field trip allows students to understand marine conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources.

JSC students presented in ‘Climate Fresk’ Workshop 
JSC students presented in ‘Climate Fresk’ Workshop 

JSC students participated in the ‘Climate Fresk’ Workshop by Dr. Margaret Julia Burnett. This workshop enables JSC students to have an open conversation about climate solutions. 

After spent a wonderful week at HKU, the JSC students continued their journey in Japan at Hokkaido University. The Joint Summer Camp is definitely a unique experience with newfound knowledge and cross-cultural friendships for the participants in three cities.

For more information, please visit: https://cusi.chula.ac.th