‘Connecting Asia for A Sustainable Future Joint Summer Camp (JSC) – Unique Experience in Thailand, Hong Kong and Japan’ – First Week at the University of Hong Kong
The Summer Institute at the University of Hong Kong organized the Hong Kong session of the Joint Summer Camp (JSC) for students from July 14th to 20th, 2024, focusing on the theme of ‘Sustainability and Circular Economy’. This year, the collaborative summer programme took place at HKU’s main campus for the second time, featuring a variety of engaging activities. Workshops, seminars, field trips, and SDG games were designed to enhance intercultural communication and foster collaborative problem-solving skills among students, empowering them to address sustainability challenges in Asia and beyond.
A standout experience for the JSC students was the visit to the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS). During the visit, students explored the institute’s cutting-edge laboratory facilities, took part in hands-on workshops, and ventured to Hong Kong’s sole marine reserve to observe the rocky shore habitat, gaining insight into the institute’s contributions to marine research.
Additionally, the students engaged in lectures and workshops on topics such as biodiversity and restoration, SDG Games, and forum discussions. These sessions not only broadened their understanding but also encouraged them to adopt a comprehensive approach to decision-making to combat climate change and environmental issues effectively.
The biodiversity workshops and board games provided the JSC students with a deeper appreciation of biodiversity’s significance and practical insights on implementing Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) across different sectors in Hong Kong.
Furthermore, the ‘2030 SDGs Game’ immersed the students in a simulated world set in 2030, educating them about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and raising awareness about global sustainability challenges.
As part of the program, the students engaged in the ‘Transformative Power’ forum led by Dr. Margaret Julia Burnett, facilitating open discussions on future sustainability solutions.
The JSC students were given the opportunity to engage in social activities, including a guided big bus tour and a visit to the M+ museum located in the vibrant West Kowloon Culture District of Hong Kong.
Following their enriching experience at HKU, the JSC students embarked on the next phase of their journey at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, culminating in a unique cross-cultural experience that fostered new knowledge and lasting friendships among participants in three different cities.
