A Transformative Hangzhou Adventure: Immersing in Academia, Industry, and Culture

On 3 June 2024, a group of over 20 students from the MSceBSCM and MScMIB Programmes, led by Professor Yan Aihua, the Associate Director of the Taught Postgraduate Programmes Office, traveled from Hong Kong to Hangzhou for a 4-day, 3-night study tour.

The students were thrilled to visit Zhejiang University, a top domestic university with an international reputation. They first toured the Zhejiang University History Museum, where they received a detailed introduction from Zhejiang University students, gaining an understanding of the development history of this illustrious institution. Afterwards, the students explored the Zijingang Campus of Zhejiang University, observing both traditional architectural buildings and modern well-designed facilities, providing them with a diverse learning environment.

The group was honored and excited to have Professor Huang Liqiang from the School of Management of Zhejiang University deliver a lecture. Professor Huang is a leading expert in information systems strategy, with current research interests spanning enterprise digital transformation and value creation, data product development and governance strategies, as well as platform enterprise ecosystem development strategies. The students are particularly grateful to Professor Huang Liqiang and student Zhong Qiming for their dedicated support, from which the group has greatly benefited.

Eager to explore the cutting-edge tech world, the students also visited the internet giant Alibaba. As one of the most influential technology companies in China, Alibaba has revolutionized the e-commerce and digital payment industries. Walking around Alibaba's high-tech campus, professional interpreters provided the students with detailed introductions to the company's history and unique corporate culture. Through interactive experiences, they were encouraged to reflect on the direction of their own future work and how emerging technologies could shape their career paths. This visit to Alibaba allowed the students to gain invaluable insights into the thriving tech ecosystem in China and contemplate how they might contribute to the industry in the years to come.

Fascinated by the automotive industry, the group visited the Qiantang base of Geely Automobile. Geely is the only Chinese automotive group among the top ten global automotive brand portfolio values, with total assets exceeding 510 billion RMB. In recent years, Geely Automobile has embarked on a new era of intelligence and electrification, entering the first echelon of new energy vehicle enterprises.

The students toured three major Geely Automobile factories. The manufacturing process starts with Computer Numerical Control machines in the stamping plant, moves on to robotic arms in the welding plant, and culminates in the workshop assembly lines of the final assembly plant, every step contributed to the complete manufacturing process of an automobile. This experience truly widened the students' horizons. Walking into this manufacturing base allowed the students to experience Geely's core values of pragmatism, striving for excellence, and collaborative innovation. The students were fortunate enough to witness the birth of a car, watching it start up for the first time. It was an unforgettable experience for everyone.

In addition to the exciting academic and industrial exchanges, the students also explored the rich history and culture of Hangzhou from various aspects. They visited the famous scenic spots of the city, including the serene Lingyin Temple and majestic Feilai Peak. The group took a boat tour of the picturesque West Lake, wandered through the ancient Guozhuang, and strolled along the fascinating Huagang Park, discovering the historical and cultural heritage preserved in this captivating city.

The students also enthusiastically explored the culinary offerings of Hangzhou, praising the delicious specialty dishes they sampled. These included the new-style Hangsanxian, the Chinese pancake with roast meat, the classic Dongpo pork, and the mouthwatering pearl meatball. The group thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the vibrant and diverse flavors that Hangzhou's renowned cuisine had to offer.

The 4-day, 3-night study tour to Hangzhou was an enriching and eye-opening experience for the students. Through a combination of academic exchanges, industry visits, and cultural immersion, the students gained invaluable insights and a deeper appreciation for the global perspectives and multifaceted opportunities that await them in their future endeavors.