The “Pass-it-on” programme, jointly organised by United College and Tsinghua University, provided #ucgoal #culturalexchange #social valuable opportunities for students from both institutions to participate in various community service projects in Hong Kong and Beijing. Through this programme, students contributed to society through voluntary services.

From 8 to 22 July 2024, students from both institutions visited Hong Kong and Beijing. They engaged with local social welfare organisations, participated in volunteer services, and took part in experiential activities. The programme also provided an excellent opportunity for students to understand the difficulties faced by these groups from different perspectives and to explore ways to help them overcome their challenges.

Highlights in Hong Kong (8-15 July 2024):

After months of preparation, students from both institutions finally gathered in Hong Kong on 8 July, marking the official launch of the programme.

By participating in the ‘Equality 180’ wheelchair community experience organised by the Hong Kong PHAB Association, students gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by wheelchair users due to physical limitations. This experience highlighted the crucial need for accessible facilities.

Additionally, the programme received support from SAHK, facilitating visits for students from both institutions to the Jockey Club Elaine Field School, On Ting Workshop, and Bradbury Tak Tin Workshop. These visits provided valuable insights into caring for and supporting individuals with physical disabilities. In return, UC and Tsinghua students organised a special one-day visit to CUHK, allowing SAHK students to spend an unforgettable day at CUHK.

The students participated in an intergenerational communication workshop organised by “Eldpathy”, which gave them the opportunity to interact with the elderly. They also wore specially designed weighted equipment to simulate the physical conditions of the elderly while playing games. This experience helped them understand the daily challenges faced by the elderly and reminded them to treat the elderly with respect and empathy.

In addition to serving people with disabilities, students also learned how to protect the marine environment through a beach cleanup at Wu Kai Sha Beach. Braving the scorching sun, they diligently cleared various types of accumulated trash from the beach.

Highlights in Beijing (15 to 22 July):

After the activities in Hong Kong, students from both institutions travelled to Beijing together to continue their service learning trip.

The students organised activities for children receiving medical treatment at the “Beijing Ronald McDonald House”. They taught the young patients basic Cantonese and drawing, aiming to create a relaxing and joyful environment through companionship, conversation, and games. Their goal was to ensure everyone had a pleasant and enjoyable time together.

Visiting “Teach for China” allowed the students to appreciate the organisation’s efforts in implementing both short-term and long-term volunteer teaching programmes in various provinces and remote areas of China. The experience deepened their understanding of the current state of education in mainland China and highlighted the importance of quality educational resources.

At the “Tongxin Library”, the students engaged in crafting activities with the children. Although the craft activities were quite challenging, they found joy in interacting with the kids through the creative process.