Impact of Giving

The Lingnan-Yuanpei STEM Summer Academy (LYSSA) has established itself as an impactful platform for innovation and collaboration among young minds since its launch in 2024. Jointly organised by Lingnan University and the Yuanpei College of Peking University (PKU), and generously supported by the Lingnan Foundation, this immersive programme aims to empower students by exploring STEM knowledge. It encourages innovative ideas to address real-world challenges while fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the humanities, demonstrating the transformative power of educational philanthropy.

The 2025 edition of LYSSA, held from 4 to 12 July at Peking University, brought together 37 outstanding students from both universities. Guided by experienced entrepreneurs and top scientists, they engaged in a series of hybrid seminars, lectures and immersive workshops focusing on STEM and green technology, paving the way for innovative insights and meaningful learning experiences.

Liu Chun-hei, a Lingnan University student involved in a project of “Drone – Unmanned marine chemical pollution detection”, shared that his previous attempts to execute his drone project faltered until he benefited from the strategic guidance and financial support provided by LYSSA. Similarly, Cui Yuanxi from Yuanpei College highlighted the programme's invaluable practical experience, noting the enthusiasm for learning that flourished among students from around the globe as they collaborated late into the night to design their product.

Prof Chen Xi, Dean of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and Chair Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Lingnan University, emphasised the urgent demand for interdisciplinary talent in today's landscape. He noted that LYSSA equips future innovators with a robust foundation in scientific literacy, enabling them to o better understand the trajectory of emerging technology enterprises while also fostering a deeper understanding of business principles among future scientists.

Prof Li Donghui, Associate Vice-President (Experiential Learning Projects) at Lingnan University, reflected on the success of the Academy, crediting the invaluable support of the Lingnan Foundation. This commitment not only fuels transformative learning experiences but also nourishes the ongoing mission to cultivate responsible innovation among the youth.

Through LYSSA, the next generation of innovators is instilled with the importance of professional excellence alongside a strong sense of social responsibility. This dual focus ensures that their ideas will shine brightly as they strive to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

By embodying the mission “Let ideas shine into reality, let youth align with responsibility,” LYSSA exemplifies the powerful synergy of faculty and student collaboration and the collective effort to tackle social challenges while advancing sustainable development.