United College of The Chinese University of Hong Kong and Qiusu College of Zhejiang University co-organised a milestone academic exchange programme in July 2025. As CUHK’s first College-level collaboration with Zhejiang University, this initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing long-term academic and cultural exchange partnerships between the two institutions.

The programme was conducted in two phases and encompassed various disciplines, such as business, marketing, technology, investment, career development, artificial intelligence, and robotics, offering rich and practical learning experience.

Phase One – United College Students Visited Qiushi College of Zhejiang University (16 to 22 July 2025)

Led by Dr Leung Tak Wah, Associate Dean of General Education, 19 UC students from various disciplines embarked on an immersive academic journey at Zhejiang University in mid-July. They were warmly received by representatives of Zhejiang University, who arranged a comprehensive programme featuring classroom learning, field trips, and company visits.

In the classroom, students delved into topics related to artificial intelligence and data security. The classroom atmosphere was lively, with students showing great interest, actively participating in discussions, asking insightful questions, and engaging in in-depth interactions with the speakers. This not only deepened their understanding of these fields but also stimulated their sense of entrepreneurship.

Teacher and students from UC took a group photo outside Qiushi College Hall with representatives from Zhejiang University.

Beyond the classroom, students visited companies such as China Vision Valley, the ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Centre, and Uniview, experiencing the integration of theory and practice firsthand. Through these field visits, students deepened their understanding of relevant industries and enhanced their practical knowledge of industry development, feeling the close connection between technology and business.

Cultural exploration was also a key component of the programme. Students visited the Zhejiang University History Museum and the Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings Museum. These activities allowed them to explore these important cultural and historical contexts in greater depth. They actively engaged with their peers and instructors, sharing their views and questions, which enhanced mutual understanding and friendship. Such interactions not only enriched their learning experiences but also laid a solid foundation for their future academic research and cultural understanding.

UC students visited Uniview in Hangzhou to gain an in-depth understanding of the company’s advanced technologies and innovative solutions.

To conclude the courses at Zhejiang University, a closing ceremony was held by Zhejiang University for our students to celebrate the success of the exchange programme. As a teacher from Zhejiang University expressed:

“Good times are always short, but they leave a lasting impression in our hearts. We are sincerely grateful for these wonderful encounters and look forward to reconnecting again in the future.”

Phase Two – Zhejiang University Students Visited United College (27 July to 2 August 2025)

A week later, 20 students from Zhejiang University visited the College. During this time, Professor Tina W S Choi from the Department of Management of the CUHK Business School, covered topics such as entrepreneurship, market demand analysis, and technological innovation in her lessons. Professor Choi brought a wealth of practical experience in sales and marketing, and the course content was inspiring, encouraging students to actively interact and ask questions, gaining valuable knowledge and insights.

Students from Zhejiang University engaged in in-depth learning with Professor Tina W S Choi from the Department of Management of the CUHK Business School.

In addition to classroom learning, students visited the Hong Kong Centre for Logistics Robotics, the HKSTP Experience Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong School of Biomedical Sciences Core Laboratories, and the Link Sustainability Lab. Through these visits, students not only learned about cutting-edge technologies but also engaged in in-depth discussions with industry experts. Notably, alumni from SmartAge shared how they utilise technology to improve elderly care and promote the concept of “aging in place.” Additionally, the awardee of the Champion of the Professor Charles Kao Student Creativity Awards shared insights in biomedical engineering. Students took advantages of their opportunities to interact with guests and guides, gaining a wealth of knowledge. Such interactions broadened their horizons and strengthened their reflections on future career development.

Furthermore, they visited the M+ Museum and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, gaining a deeper understanding of various aspects of art and history. Subsequently, students toured the campus to learn about the unique collegiate system implemented by the CUHK, which deepened their understanding of the education system in Hong Kong.

During this period, the College arranged welcome luncheon and farewell dinner for the teachers and students from Zhejiang University and also specially invited the 19 UC students who had previously visited Zhejiang University to attend. At the dinner, they actively interacted with the 20 students from Zhejiang University, exchanging contact information and sharing experiences and insights, fostering relationships between both groups.

Finally, the College extends our sincere gratitude to Zhejiang University, the Centre for Entrepreneurship – CUHK Business School, all participating instructors, companies, and student representatives who contributed to the success of this exchange programme. This meaningful initiative was made possible through the collective support and collaboration of all parties involved. We hope that students gained rich knowledge and experience through this programme, and that they will apply what they have learnt to make meaningful contributions to society in their future careers.