In the summer of 2025, United College launched its inaugural collaboration with the Summer Programme at the University of Oulu, Finland, under the GOAL Programme (Globe-Oriented Active Learning Programme). Ten students participated in two summer courses—Arctic and Nordic Perspectives on Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Education —from 3 to 16 August, led by the Associate College Head and Dean of General Education, Professor Lee Hung Kay.

The Arctic and Nordic Perspectives on Sustainable Development course explored a range of issues affecting the Nordic and Arctic regions, including Indigenous communities, healthy ageing, China’s involvement in the Arctic, and EU policy. It adopted a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing politics, energy, culture, and public health.

The Global Citizenship Education course focused on sustainable development, intercultural competence, and global engagement, aiming to cultivate critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills.

Both courses encouraged students to reflect on local perspectives and the ethical dimensions of sustainability, learning to incorporate community voices into global dialogues for inclusive and practical development.

Beyond the classroom, students enjoyed cultural activities organised by the University of Oulu, such as a day trip to Rovaniemi within the Arctic Circle, picking wild blueberries in the forest, and baking traditional Finnish blueberry pie. Despite light rain on the day of blueberry picking, students ventured deep into the forest to connect with nature and savour freshly picked berries.

During their leisure time, students relaxed in Finnish saunas and, by chance, witnessed shooting stars and the Northern Lights—magical highlights of their Nordic journey.