Media

The University of Hong Kong's Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS) launched the GLOCAL Connect programme in a kick-off ceremony held on August 30 to welcome new non-local freshmen.

The programme aims to promote internationalisation and integration among local and non-local students on campus. Around 50 dynamic and enthusiastic students, primarily in their second year or above, have joined the programme as GLOCAL Connectors. Acting as a bridge, they will foster global bonds and facilitate local experiences for the newly admitted non-local students.

In his welcome address, Professor Ian Holliday, Vice-President (Teaching and Learning), expressed his appreciation for the involvement of all participants and encouraged them to maximise the benefits of the programme.

Approximately 400 new non-local undergraduates were in attendance, and the kick-off ceremony marked the beginning of their HKU journey.

Professor Kelvin Yeung, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, said the programme serves as a platform for non-local students to acquaint themselves with local customs and traditions, promoting engagement with local students, understanding of local culture, and fostering a sense of belonging. The programme also encourages cross-cultural interactions, with local students sharing their experiences of Hong Kong.

At the event, Mr Julian Benedikt Gaertner, an accomplished actor and entrepreneur from Germany who graduated from HKU with a Bachelor of Social Sciences in 2011, shared insights with the newcomers from his university experience and offered valuable tips on adapting to a new culture with the students.

Efsa Aktay, a Year 4 student from Turkey serving as a Connector, stated that the programme has been beneficial not only to the new students but also to senior students. She added that the programme has expanded their social networks, facilitated knowledge sharing, and contributed to personal development. Efsa also shared that, through the programme, she has been able to connect with individuals who share similar interests and help her peers integrate into university life.

Mark Vodicar, a new non-local student from Slovenia said, “The GLOCAL Connect programme at HKU has been nothing short of a game-changer for me as a newcomer. It's been a bridge to a global community, where I've forged friendships across borders and built a network that feels like home. This innovative initiative has not only smoothed my transition into university life but has also enriched my experience in ways I never imagined. I even learned my first line of Cantonese from one of the Connectors who is a current student, truly embracing the diversity HKU offers.”

This year, over 1,600 non-local students representing close to 60 nationalities from different countries and regions have joined HKU. They will be paired up with current students to ensure they receive adequate support in adapting to life in Hong Kong and at the University. 

Under the programme, CEDARS and the Connectors will collaborate to host networking events and bonding activities to strengthen relationships and facilitate communication.

“Students and their Connectors are encouraged to stay in touch even after the programme concludes, fostering enduring relationships and long-lasting friendships. We aspire that these connections will inspire non-local students to remain in Hong Kong and pursue opportunities after graduation," said Mr Laurence Tang, Head of Campus Life.

For more details about GLocal Connect, please visit: https://gconnect.cedars.hku.hk/

For media enquiries, please contact:
Communication and Public Affairs Office, HKU
Melanie Wan (Tel: 2859 2600 / Email: melwkwan@hku.hk)
Jaymee Ng (Tel: 3910 3612 / Email: ngjaymee@hku.hk)
Kenneth Choi (Tel: 3917 2607 / Email: khkchoi@hku.hk)