Bridging theory and practice: Empowering GS students through service practica in health and social care

To foster experiential learning and strengthen community engagement, Lingnan University (Lingnan)’s School of Graduate Studies (GS) organised service practica for students in three health-related taught postgraduate programmes: the Master of Social Sciences in Health and Social Services Management (MHSM), the Master of Science in Health Analytics and Management (HAM), and the Master of Science in Smart Ageing and Gerontology (SAG). In the 2025/26 academic year, a total of 68 service placements were offered across diverse settings in Hong Kong, including hospitals, NGOs, and university projects. The objectives of the service practica were to provide hands-on experience for postgraduate students interested in pursuing careers in social services, enhance their understanding of the local health and social services sectors, and support their career planning.

Over the service practica across two terms, students made meaningful contributions and reflected on their learning experiences. Victor Olorunjuwonlo Omole, a student in the HAM programme, participated in the service practicum at the LU Jockey Club Gerontech-X Lab in Term 2. He shared, “Participating in the service practicum shifted my career focus towards the intersection of health analytics and elderly care technology. Previously, I thought health analytics mainly involved working with structured data in hospitals or corporate settings. Now, I understand the importance of user behaviour and real-time feedback, as well as the practical challenges of ensuring data quality and designing effective systems. I am particularly interested in roles involving gerontechnology product evaluation, user experience analytics for ageing populations, or operational improvements in elderly care facilities. This experience inspired me to work more closely with end-users—not just behind a screen.”

Chen Zhuoying from the MHSM programme contributed over 20 service hours at the Tuen Mun Hospital Patient Resource Centre in Term 2. She reflected, “The service practicum significantly enhanced my empathy and practical communication skills, especially by supporting elderly patients. It also strengthened my confidence in applying academic knowledge to tackle real-world health service challenges. This experience has instilled a patient-centred approach that will guide my future career.”

In addition, He Yingshan from the SAG programme participated in service at a residential care home for the elderly in Term 1. She commented, “The service practicum greatly supported my professional growth by connecting academic theory with real practice. Working in such a professional environment demonstrated to me the high standards of quality elderly care. It improved my communication skills with older adults and deepened my understanding of how well-designed services can directly enhance the subjective well-being of the elderly.”

Dr Chloe Siu Pui-yee, Senior Lecturer at the GS and coordinator of the service practica, emphasised their significance. She said, “Lingnan’s guiding motto is ‘Education for Service’. Equipping students to become future leaders who can address social challenges through practical experiences is our core mission. These practica provide critical learning opportunities that encourage students to reflect on their academic studies while making meaningful contributions to society.” Students worked collaboratively in teams, delivering valuable services to the community. Dr Siu believes this initiative exemplifies Lingnan’s commitment to experiential learning, ensuring that postgraduate students gain fruitful and practice-oriented experiences that enrich their academic journey and professional readiness.