From December 30, 2024, to January 7, 2025, a dedicated group of 23 students and staff from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), including Ir Professor Mui Kwok Wai Horace, Interim Dean of Students and Professor, and Ir Professor Wong Ling Tim, Associate Head (Partnership) and Associate Professor, embarked on a transformative Service-Learning project at Kurmul International School (KIS) in Cambodia. BSE2S01 Science for Healthy and Sustainable Living Environments, this initiative was designed to foster educational exchange and promote sustainability through a comprehensive STEM workshop, which directly benefited 65 Grade 10 students at KIS.
The workshop spanned four days, during which five groups of PolyU students engaged with the Cambodian students in dynamic and interactive sessions. These sessions were meticulously crafted to impart essential knowledge and skills related to sustainability, emphasizing practical applications and innovative thinking. The culmination of this educational journey was a spirited competition where all participating Cambodian students showcased their newfound understanding of sustainability concepts. This event not only highlighted the students' learning achievements but also created a vibrant and joyful atmosphere, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Beyond the academic and educational benefits, the project significantly enhanced the students' understanding of environmental issues and sustainable practices. It also served as a bridge, strengthening the relationship between PolyU BEEE and KIS, and fostering a rich cultural exchange that broadened global awareness among participants. The school expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to engage in such a meaningful cross-cultural collaboration, which deepened their understanding of sustainability and its global importance.
In addition to their teaching responsibilities, PolyU students immersed themselves in cultural training, gaining insights into Cambodia's recent history through visits to poignant sites such as S21 and the Killing Fields. These experiences provided a deeper context for their Service-Learning project, enriching their understanding of the local culture and history. The students also enjoyed a brief excursion to Siem Reap, where they marvelled at the world-renowned historical site, Angkor Wat. This visit added an extra layer of enrichment and memorability to their journey, making the entire experience both educational and personally rewarding.
The photo gallery can be found here.
