Successful Shandong Study Tour Fosters Academic and Cultural Exchange

From May 12 to 18, 2025, a student and staff exchange delegation from The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) visited Shandong University of Finance and Economics (SDUFE) for a seven-day academic and cultural exchange programme. Co-organized by EdUHK’s Department of Education Policy and Leadership (EPL), SDUFE’s International Office, School of Public Administration and Policy, and School of International Education, this event marked the first face-to-face, in-depth exchange since the two universities formally established an institutional partnership in 2024. The initiative aims to deepen inter-university collaboration and foster educational resource sharing between Shandong and Hong Kong.

On the morning of May 13, the opening ceremony was held at SDUFE’s Yanshan Campus. Dr LEE Tai Hoi Theodore, Associate Head of EPL, alongside SDUFE Vice President Peng Hongfeng and representatives from both universities, attended the event.

During the week-long visit, the EdUHK delegation visited SDUFE’s history museum, library, and art gallery. They joined professional seminars on topics like Qilu culture and public governance, as well as cultural activities such as lacquer fan making and vocal performances. These activities broadened their academic perspectives and deepened cultural exchange and friendship.

The closing ceremony took place on May 16, attended by Ms. Yin Xiaomin, Deputy Director-General of the Shandong Provincial Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs Office, Director of its Hong Kong & Macao Division; and Mr. Zha Yuxi, Party Secretary of SDUFE. Ms. Yin praised the tour for enhancing Shandong-Hong Kong cultural exchange and pledged continued policy support to build regular cooperation between the two regions’ universities. She encouraged students to foster national pride and become active participants in cultural exchange.

Dr LEE Tai Hoi Theodore noted that the two universities share strong alignment in public policy and education management. He hoped this exchange would lead to greater collaboration. He also said the visit deepened Hong Kong faculty and students’ understanding of Shandong’s culture and local customs. In the future, EDUHK aims to support national strategies, improve educational openness, and promote high-quality education development.

EDUHK and SDUFE established a formal partnership in 2024, and EdUHK President Professor John Lee Chi-Kin was awarded an honorary professorship by SDUFE.