During the first semester, the Language Improvement Project launched four different language and cultural programmes. These programmes were designed to introduce students to various language and cultural features, sparking their interest and significantly enhancing their language proficiency.

This semester, the College unveiled a new course titled AU01 Project Chrysalis: How to Create a Professional Pitch, taught by College member, Mr Johnson M L Chan of the English Language Teaching Unit. Under Mr Chan’s guidance, students learned how to effectively persuade different stakeholders and enhance their presentation skills through the art of language. In the final class, students conducted a mock pitching, showcasing their diligent preparation and hard work.

In addition, the College invited Mr Lam Yat Yan, College alumnus, to teach another new course, AU02 A Study on the Dunhuang Manuscripts and Chinese Learning. In this course, Mr Lam introduced the origins and development of Dunhuang research and its relevance to Chinese learning in class. Students found the lessons both engaging and interesting, gaining valuable insights into this important area of study.

For AU03 Daily Cantonese, we also invited College member, Dr Ng Ka Yi of the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, to teach non-local Chinese speaking students, helping them adapt to their new life in Hong Kong. In the class, students learned essential Cantonese phrases for greetings, shopping, visiting the doctor, and dining out. They also had a opportunity to practise Cantonese by ordering food at Si Yuan Amenities Centre and sharing their campus life with the instructor.

Additionally, we are thrilled to reintroduce the course AU04 A Latin America to Be Told and Spoken this semester. For many students, the culture of Latin America and the Spanish language are quite unfamiliar. Our students eagerly listened to the instructor’s sharing with great interest and even communicated with the instructor in Spanish! They also had the delightful opportunity to try authentic Latin American cuisine in class. It was truly an enriching and enjoyable experience for all involved.