Supporting UN SDGs: EdUHK Organises One-Day Student Experiential Programme 2025 for Elders
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), in collaboration with the office of Tai Po District Council Member Armstrong Lee Hon-cheung, hosted the One-Day Student Experiential Programme 2025 today (29 March). The event offered participants an opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant and intellectually stimulating atmosphere of the university through campus visits, classroom learning and seminars. It attracted over 30 elders from Tai Po.
The event is part of EdUHK’s SDG Living Laboratory @ Tai-po – Community Well-being project, which helps achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by focusing on enhancing health and well-being, reducing inequality, providing quality education, promoting community and making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This initiative has also built long-term partnerships with 12 Taipo district council members, eight care teams, and five community organisations, further strengthening its impact by extending educational and health resources to the local community.
The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare Bureau Mr Ho Kai-ming, Tai Po District Council Member Mr Armstrong Lee Hon-cheung, EdUHK President Professor John Lee Chi-Kin, Vice President (Research and Development) Professor Chetwyn Chan Che-hin, Dean of Students Professor Bill Yeung Chi-ho, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Health and Physical Education Dr Peggy Or Pui-lai.
In addressing the ceremony, Professor John Lee Chi-Kin said, “Education is not a privilege reserved for the young but a journey that transcends generations. People of all ages should be encouraged to pursue their passion for learning and spirit of exploration. At EdUHK, we have been utilising diverse educational resources to bring education into the community and ensure its benefits reach every individual. We will continue to promote sustainable development in areas such as community, health, and education.”
Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare Bureau Mr Ho Kai-ming stated in his speech, “The government has been actively promoting active ageing and hopes to collaborate with the academic sector to organise more learning activities for seniors.” He also encouraged the elderly to maintain a healthy mindset and a proactive spirit for lifelong learning, emphasised the importance of learning, contributing, and enjoying life in their golden years, ultimately achieving the goal of longevity and health for the whole society.
Tai Po District Council Member Mr Armstrong Lee Hon-cheung expressed his gratitude to the government, EdUHK, care teams, and all partners, saying, “The success of this event is a testament to the collective efforts of all parties involved. We look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future to build a more inclusive and sustainable community.”
The elders enjoyed a tour of EdUHK’s campus facilities, including the student dormitories and the Hong Kong Museum of Education. Participants explored how sustainable practices can be integrated into campus design, such as through energy-saving systems and waste-sorting initiatives.
They also attended engaging and interactive health education workshops, where they acquired practical knowledge on physical activity, brain health and mental health. In addition, a hands-on STEM session using a drone offered opportunities to explore how technology and education intersect in innovative ways.
At the end of the eventful day, a special graduation ceremony was held for the elders, who donned graduation robes and relived memories of their youth while celebrating the joy and fulfilment of learning.
During the ceremony, Professor Chetwyn Chan said that the event demonstrated the significant achievements of the SDG Living Laboratory @ Tai-po - Community Well-being. Since its establishment in May 2024, the programme has served over 900 elders in the Tai Po district by providing cognitive screening, helping to identify early risks of cognitive decline, through activities such as health promotion workshops and light volleyball sessions. It has also enhanced the well-being of elders, promoting a vibrant and harmonious sense of community.
Guests attending the graduation ceremony also included Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Bureau Mr Clarence Leung Wang-ching. He stated, “The programme allows our ‘old friends’ from Tai Po to return to campus and experience being a university student firsthand. It broadens their horizons while promoting intergenerational exchange and mutual understanding. At the same time, EdUHK students can gain valuable life experiences and wisdom through interactions with elders, creating a mutually beneficial and meaningful experience.”
The One-Day EdUHK Student Experiential Programme 2025 marks a new chapter in the University’s collaboration with the community to foster sustainable development. EdUHK intends to make this as an annual event, incorporating new elements such as hearing health assessments and nutritional guidance, in order to benefit more elders.
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EdUHK Organises One-Day Student Experiential Programme 2025 for Elders in aligning with United Nations SDGs
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