Beyond Classroom Events

Beyond Classroom Learning

CRDS programme is dedicated to providing students with a diverse range of activities that enrich their understanding of international relations.
Our programme offers unique opportunities for students to engage directly with global leaders from various countries and fields.
Through events such as ambassadorial meetings, guest lectures, international conferences, exchange programme etc students can interact with diplomats, policymakers, and industry experts.
These experiences not only deepen their knowledge of global issues but also help them build valuable networks and develop practical skills.
Our goal is to prepare students to understand the complex landscape of international relations, equipping them with the insights and connections necessary for successful careers in this dynamic field.

Academic Exchange activity with South China Normal University (Greater Bay Area Focus)

Emphasising both academic study and practical experience, the activity broadens students’ perspectives on the Greater Bay Area while offering opportunities to experience Lingnan culture.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Workshop

Designed to help students understand and explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can be applied to enhance personal skills, develop them into core competencies, and secure a competitive edge in a rapidly changing workplace, thereby equipping them to lead the future.

Chinese in Africa/Africans in China Research Network Conference and Symposium

The symposium was also part of the Master of China and Regional Development Studies (CRDS) programme, with students participating in a course led by Prof. Padmore Adusei Amoah. It served as a remarkable platform for students to showcase their research and engage in high-level academic discussions.

Key topics included Africa-China relations, people-centered interactions, and the impacts of global geopolitical shifts. The event featured 7 concurrent sessions with over 90 abstract presentations, attracting more than 300 postgraduate students, researchers, and academics from around the globe. Participants joined both online and offline, fostering dynamic discussions and valuable networking opportunities.

Guest Seminar: Mr. Michael Kwan

We had the honor of inviting Mr. Michael Kwan, the current Tuen Mun District Officer, to deliver an insightful talk on local governance. Mr. Kwan began his talk by outlining the key responsibilities and functions of the District Office, emphasizing the importance of effective local governance in enhancing community well-being. He provided a detailed overview of the various initiatives and projects undertaken in Tuen Mun to address local needs and improve public services. These included efforts in urban planning, public safety, social services, and community development.

Throughout the session, Mr. Kwan highlighted the challenges faced in local governance, such as resource allocation, public consultation, and balancing diverse community interests. He also shared best practices and strategies for fostering community participation and building trust between the government and residents.

Guest Seminar: Recapping forty years of My Growth and Experience

Mr. Tam Yiu-chung, a prominent political leader from Hong Kong, delivered a lecture at Lingnan University. He discussed his extensive career, including roles in the Legislative Council, the Basic Law Drafting Committee, and preparations for Hong Kong's return to China. He also highlighted his efforts in founding organizations such as the DAB and the Hong Kong Coalition and advocating for labor and elderly protection.

Mr. Tam shared his experiences in dealing with significant challenges like political crises during the handover, the Vietnamese boat people, and the SARS outbreak. He emphasized the importance of values like patriotism, continuous learning, engaging with the community, and sincerity for Hong Kong's development.

The lecture provided students with valuable insights into public service, sparking engaging discussions. Many attendees, aspiring to future roles in public service, expressed that they gained greatly from Mr. Tam's experiences and perspectives.

Site Visit: Legislative Council

We are delighted to share the highlights of our recent site visit to the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong. Students had the unique opportunity to be guided by a LegCo member.

During the visit, the LegCo member detailed the history and development of Hong Kong's legislative system, offering a comprehensive overview of its evolution. Students learned about the current operations and functions of the Legislative Council, gaining a deeper understanding of how the political system in Hong Kong works.

This engaging experience allowed participants to connect theory with practice, enhancing their knowledge of Hong Kong's political landscape.

Open Seminar: Introduction to the European Union and EU - Hong Kong relations

We are pleased to announce the success of our recent seminar, "Introduction to the European Union and EU-Hong Kong Relations". The event featured Mr. Matthias Kaufmann, Deputy Head of Office and Head of Political, Press, and Information Section at the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao.

Mr. Kaufmann provided an insightful exploration of the European Union's origins, evolution, and guiding principles. He explained the roles and functions of the main European institutions, giving attendees a clearer understanding of the EU's operations and decision-making processes.

A significant portion of the seminar focused on the EU's economic, political, and trade relations with China and Hong Kong. Mr. Kaufmann discussed the historical context, current dynamics, and future prospects of these relationships. He also addressed broader geopolitical issues such as trade wars and international conflicts and their implications for the EU.

2025 Short-term Internship Programme – Chinese Association for Artificial Intelligence

Applying AI skills and CRDS professional knowledge in real-world contexts
Focusing on regional development challenges in the Guangdong – Hong Kong – Macao Greater Bay Area and developing AI-driven solutions
Location of internship: Hong Kong