Upon arriving in Xinjiang, the vast grasslands and endless blue skies left a deep impression on the students, prompting them to capture the breathtaking scenery with their cameras.

From 5 to 20 July 2025, five students from United College travelled to Yumin County in the Tacheng region of Xinjiang to participate in the Service Learning and Voluntary Teaching Programme under GOAL Programme. The group was led by Dr Tony M H Chan, the then College Secretary, the group embarked on a meaningful educational journey alongside students from Zhejiang University’s Chu Kochen Honors College, East China Normal University’s Meng Xiancheng College, and the University of Macau’s Cheng Yu Tung College.

As it was their first time in Xinjiang, the students prepared a series of lesson plans before departure. These covered a wide range of topics beyond the standard curriculum, including arts education, self-consciousness, mental wellness, scientific experiments, and cultural exchange. Through interactive teaching, they aimed to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning among local primary school students.

In the classroom, the enthusiastic responses and innocent smiles of the children deeply moved the students. They came to understand that a lesson is not merely about transferring knowledge, it is also about touching hearts and inspiring dreams. In just two weeks, they experienced firsthand that education knows no boundaries, and that knowledge holds the power to transform lives.

Students from different universities also took part in the programme, and through daily exchanges, they inspired one another. After each day’s teaching activities, they engaged in reflection and shared their experiences, gradually building strong collaborative relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

Every participant grew through this journey, and the group photo taken at the end captured the most precious moments of the experience.

In just two weeks, the teaching journey allowed the students to truly appreciate the power of education and the value of cross-cultural exchange. They not only gained knowledge and friendship, but also came to understand that teaching can connect hearts and inspire dreams — making this a meaningful and unforgettable chapter in their lives.