Media

The delegates took part in various activities throughout the day with members of the University. During a campus tour, they visited the University's historic buildings, laboratories and teaching facilities, and the student residence University Hall. They also attended a public lecture, to gain an understanding of the University's teaching and learning environment, and the life of the students here.

A welcoming ceremony was held at Loke Yew Hall in the historic Main Building, which is also the place where Dr Sun Yat-sen, an illustrious member of the HKU family, gave a lecture in 1923.

At the ceremony, HKU Vice-Chancellor Professor Lap-Chee Tsui looked forward to introducing the University to PLA members through a variety of activities. He believed the exchanges to be inspirational to the staff and students here as well.

"I hope today's exchanges will deepen our mutual understanding, that our PLA friends will have a taste of our campus life, and a better idea about Hong Kong's higher education. The event will also bring our students at HKU and troop members together under the idea of one nation, so that their friendships will flourish," said Professor Tsui.

Major General Wang Junli said the visit had provided good opportunities for garrison members to understand the University's achievement in teaching and learning over the last one hundred years, as the University would soon be celebrating its Centenary. He quoted an ancient Chinese proverb and said: "Grow a tree for ten years; grow men for a hundred. During this visit, we have the chance to learn about the University's mission and its passion for education; to appreciate its teaching and learning environment, and the University's unique character; and to get to know its people. Today, we have successfully deepened our understanding of each other and strengthened our friendships."

HKU senior management members and students in their green gowns were at Loke Yew Hall to greet the delegates.

The delegates then toured the University Museum and Art Gallery at Fung Ping Shan Building, before proceeding to the Lily Pond for a group photo at the Dr Sun Yat-sen statue.

At a lecture in the Rayson Huang Theatre, Professor David P.Y. Lung, Associate Dean (Development & Special Projects) of Architecture, and member of the UNESCO Asian Heritage award judging panel, gave a talk on the past and present of the territory and the University. Dr Albert Chau, Dean of Student Affairs, gave a briefing on campus life.

Troop members were then invited to a lunch hosted by Professor Tsui at University Lodge, the Vice-Chancellor's official residence, where the delegates had a wonderful time sharing and talking with HKU staff and students. The lunch was also attended by HKU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Chow Shew-ping, Registrar Mr Henry Wai and Dean of Student Affairs Dr Albert Chau.

In the afternoon, the delegates were taken on a tour of the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, visiting the Genome Research Centre, the library and medical exhibitions.

A friendly basketball match with HKU community members was held at Lindsay Ride Sports Centre to conclude the day's event.

For photos of the day's activities, please visit: http://www.hku.hk/hkumedia/

For media enquiries, please contact: Ms Trinni Choy, tel: 2859 2606 email: pychoy@hku.hk or Ms Melanie Wan tel: 2859 2600 email: melwkwan@hku.hk .