LEAP Activity: Successfully Bridging Cultures: Highlights from the Survival Cantonese (廣東話入門)

In September 2025, the LEAP Programme under the School of Graduate Studies (GS) at Lingnan University, successfully hosted the “Survival Cantonese (廣東話入門)” course, attracting over 230 enthusiastic students.

This course equipped participants with practical Cantonese language skills essential for everyday communication in Hong Kong. Through interactive lessons and real-life scenarios, attendees not only enhanced their speaking confidence but also gained a deeper understanding of local culture and customs.  

Ma Yueyue, a Year 1 student in the Master of Social Sciences in Comparative Public Administration programme, shared her appreciation for the course. “I’m really grateful for this Cantonese course. The entire class felt like it flew by. The course content was well-structured and practical, covering everything from basic tones to topics like food, transportation, and even campus-related terms. The teachers were excellent at engaging with us new students and offered lots of incentives, making the experience very warm and welcoming. I’m looking forward to the next event!”.  

Similarly, Tam, a Year 1 student in the Master of Science in Smart Ageing and Gerontology programme, described his experience as incredibly enriching and enjoyable, particularly as a non-Cantonese speaker new to Hong Kong. He remarked, “Though I initially found the local language and culture to be quite challenging, this Cantonese course provided me with a structured and engaging platform to learn the language in a supportive environment. The lessons focused not only on practical vocabulary and phrases but also on the cultural nuances that make Cantonese so unique. The teachers were patient, enthusiastic, and always encouraged us to practice speaking without fear of making mistakes. The course also offered valuable insights into Hong Kong’s culture and traditions, which deepened my understanding and appreciation of the local community.”  

The GS LEAP programme remains dedicated to enriching students’ learning experiences and fostering cultural exchange within the community through similar language and cultural initiatives in the future. These efforts not only enhance linguistic skills but also cultivate a deeper appreciation of the diverse cultures that shape Hong Kong, equipping students to thrive in an interconnected world.