This semester, the Language Improvement Project proudly delivered ten engaging language and cultural courses, including five exciting new offerings! These courses were designed to broaden students’ horizons by introducing different languages and cultural traditions, while sparking greater interest in language learning.

AU01 Social English

Taught by Ms Tessa Stewart, Social English helps students learn the right expressions used in different social scenarios. The class included plenty of fun games and activities so students could reinforce what they have learned while playing. One highlight was a special interactive session with two Fellows from Williams College (US), where students enjoyed drinks and casual English conversations at Si Yuan Amenities Centre.

AU02 Appreciating Classical Music

Special thanks to UC College member, Mr Johnson Chan for delivering four high-quality classical music appreciation sessions to students! The programme introduced the styles and eras of different composers and included guidance on opera etiquette, making the experience truly enriching and rewarding.

AU03 Contemporary English Calligraphy

Taught by Ms Jenny Leung, the Contemporary English Calligraphy course is always a favourite among students! The class covered basic calligraphy techniques and proper pen grip. In the final session, students get to apply what they have learned by designing their own Christmas cards, it’s perfect for this festive season!

AU04 The Language and Art of Chinese Seal

Students explored the fascinating world of Chinese seal culture with Mr Thomas Kong. This course not only focused on the culture of Chinese seal but also the practical skills of craving a Chinese seal stamp! Students had gained a better understanding of the origin and transformation of Chinese seal and made their own stamp. They enjoyed this course very much!

AU05 Cantonese for Everyday Life

This semester, the College once again offered Cantonese for Everyday Life, taught by UC affiliated teacher, Dr Ng Ka Yi, for non-local Chinese-speaking students who are new to Hong Kong. The course helped them adapt to life here. Cantonese isn’t easy, but students worked hard to practice and actively participated in class! By the end of the course, many could confidently order food in Cantonese!

AU06 Foundations in Filipino for Beginners

This semester, we launched a new foreign language course – Foundations in Filipino for Beginners taught by UC College member, Professor Wilkinson Gonzales. Using Mandarin and English as bridge, he helped students quickly grasp basic Tagalog! In the final class, Professor Gonzales took students to a Filipino restaurant for a real-life dining experience, applying what they have learned in class. It was a fun and fulfilling evening for all!

AU07 Experience the Art of Japanese Contemporary Calligraphy

Amid the fast-paced mid-term season, UC students found a moment of peace and focus through the elegant strokes of Tsutefude. Led by UC alumnus, Ms Jodie Chiu, participants explored the fusion of traditional aesthetics and modern style in Japanese Contemporary Calligraphy. The two-hour workshop not only sparked artistic inspiration but also offered a space for mental clarity and relaxation, bringing positive energy into the intensity of academic life.

AU08 World Languages and Culture Evening – German: Oktoberfest at UC

Oktoberfest was held with great enthusiasm at the Si Yuan Amenities Centre. Special thanks to UC affiliated teacher, Mr Alexander Markus Kling, who gave students an engaging introduction to the origins, history, traditional attire, dances, music, and food of the German Oktoberfest, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the authentic Bavarian culture. From festive decorations to traditional music and drinks, the entire evening was a joyful tribute to the Germany’s iconic festival. In a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, students connected, unwound and experienced the warmth and charm of cultural exchange.

AU09 The Language and Communication Clinic

In this era with social media overload, face-to-face communication has reduced, affecting students’ English speaking skills. To address this, the College invited two Fellows—Poppy Miller and Minxin Li, graduates of Williams College (US) —to engage students in one-on-one English conversations aimed at improving pronunciation, articulation, and fluency. Classes were held in the Choi Koon Shum Learning Plus, a relaxed environment where students could confidently practise speaking English with the Fellows!

AU11 Beyond the Teacup: Language, Culture and the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Taught by College member, Professor Reijiro Aoyama, this course introduced Japanese tea ceremony culture. Through tea ceremony culture, students learned basic Japanese pronunciation, grammar and sentence structure. The class included plenty of interactive activities, making learning fun and engaging!