The Inaugural PLACE Summer Camp at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) Successfully Concludes
Today, the closing ceremony of the inaugural PLACE Summer Camp at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) was held. Themed "Language and Cultural Exchange," this summer camp attracted nearly 300 outstanding students from 23 countries worldwide. Over the course of 21 days, campers engaged in more than 20 specialized courses across four main areas—culture, language, sports, and science. Additionally, they participated in exploration activities showcasing the unique culture of the eight Lingnan regions in the Greater Bay Area, creating a diverse and colorful summer experience.
On the morning of August 13th, the grand closing ceremony of the PLACE Summer Camp took place at HKUST(GZ).
The event began with a spectacular guitar performance by Dr. Jaeuk Park, Senior Lecturer in the Pillar of Language Education, and camper Haquim Velasquez from Bolivia, marking the commencement of the closing ceremony.
Professor Lionel M. NI, President of HKUST(GZ), delivered the closing speech. He first acknowledged the unique value of the PLACE Summer Camp as an international immersive platform for language and cultural exchange, as well as the campers' achievements in cross-cultural learning and personal growth. The summer camp not only facilitated cultural exchanges between China and various countries worldwide but also enabled campers to develop comprehensively through activities like sports, scientific lectures, and handicraft making.
President NI specifically highlighted the campers' display of open-mindedness and multicultural inclusivity, qualities that align with the spirit advocated by HKUST(GZ). In conclusion, he warmly invited the campers to consider joining the HKUST(GZ) family in the future and encouraged them to transform the valuable experiences gained from the summer camp into a driving force for continuous exploration and growth.
Professor Shaobing QU, Secretary of the Party Committee at HKUST(GZ), delivered a speech emphasizing the significant importance and role of the summer camp as a bridge for cross-cultural exchange. He also conveyed a message to the young students, urging them to continue using culture as a force to build bridges of friendship, youth as a force to build bridges to the future, and technology as a force to build bridges of integration.
Following this, Secretary QU sincerely invited campers from various countries to revisit China, explore more beautiful cities and cultural treasures, travel to more places, make more friends, and collectively create the future.
Subsequently, through interactive games of lucky draws, campers enthusiastically shared their unforgettable moments and profound insights from the three weeks of the summer camp. From initial shyness to now freely conversing, from exploring knowledge to cultural integration, each story brims with the joy of growth and aspirations for the future.
During the closing ceremony, a special award presentation segment was set up to recognize and award various accolades to teams that exhibited excellence during the student forum activities. This was to acknowledge the outstanding performances and spirit of cooperation shown by the campers throughout the summer camp, aiming to inspire them to continually strive for excellence and scale new heights in their future learning and life endeavors.
Following the award ceremony, the Leaders of Diversity group, who were awarded the first prize in the student forum performance category, presented a special performance to the teachers and students present. Their high-energy dance and astonishing magic show garnered rounds of applause from the audience.
Following that, Professor Yang YANG, Associate Vice-President (Teaching & Learning) of HKUST(GZ), delivered the closing speech titled "The Future." Professor YANG pointed out that the world is currently facing multiple challenges, including slow progress towards sustainable development goals, climate change, unequal distribution of educational resources, and the urgent need for technological innovation. HKUST(GZ) has deeply recognized the severity of these challenges and is driving educational reforms by breaking down disciplinary barriers through interdisciplinary integration.
In his closing remarks, he encouraged all campers to face future challenges with wisdom and courage, urging them to create a future that belongs to them.
Finally, the closing ceremony concluded with a group photo of all the campers, capturing a memorable moment. The campers expressed their intentions to cherish this valuable experience and friendship, looking forward to future reunions and collaborations.
