LEAP Activity: Survival Cantonese Classes Connect Students with Hong Kong Culture

In September 2026, the Learning Enhancement and Aspiration Pathways (LEAP) programme under the School of Graduate Studies organised four “Survival Cantonese” classes, attracting over 120 postgraduate students.

The classes offered a practical and relaxed introduction to everyday Cantonese, covering useful phrases, daily conversations, and pronunciation tips. Guided by the tutors, participants practised speaking through interactive exercises and mini-games, built their confidence in using Cantonese, and gained a better understanding of everyday life and culture in Hong Kong.

Yan Yuhuan, a student in the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics programme, shared her learning experience, “The classes were very interesting and the tutor was very patient. Interacting with my classmates further sparked my interest in learning Cantonese.”

Ling Tong, a student in the Master of Science in Data Science programme, said, “The tutor taught in a very basic, step-by-step way, starting with tones and then moving on to everyday vocabulary and expressions. After the first lesson, I was already able to use some of the words and phrases in my daily life the following week. This gave me more courage to speak Cantonese and greater confidence that I could learn it well. That was my biggest takeaway.”

The LEAP programme provides learning opportunities to help postgraduate students adapt to life in Hong Kong and deepen their understanding of local culture.