From 16 to 22 December 2025, fifteen undergraduate and three postgraduate students from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) participated in a memorable study tour to Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), Harbin, China. The tour was led by Ir Professor Lu Lin Vivien, Prof. Hou Cynthia, and Dr Tsang Tsz Wun, Hayley, and was generously sponsored by the PRC Ten Thousand People’s Scheme (內地與港澳高等學校師生交流計劃項目, 簡稱萬人計劃) of the PRC Ministry of Education (教育部) and BEEE.
A highlight of the visit was the technical seminar held on 17 December, where BEEE students and staff joined HIT students and professors for an engaging session on solar energy and deep space cooling. Prof. Lu delivered a presentation titled “Steering the Solar Photons for Building Energy Transition,” while Prof. Edwin Tso from CityU also delivered a keynote address. Both professors shared their research on harnessing solar energy and the coldness of deep space for building energy efficiency. Representatives from both universities exchanged insights on their research and student life, further fostering academic collaboration and cultural understanding.
The hospitality extended by HIT staff, students, and local residents made the trip especially memorable. HIT representatives organized a warm welcome event, hosted campus tours, and arranged lab visits and meetings with faculty and students to facilitate research exchanges and mentorship. Students also had the opportunity to visit museums highlighting the history of HIT, its contributions to space research, and the rich heritage of Harbin.
This study tour provided a valuable blend of academic exchange and cultural immersion, strengthening the partnership between BEEE and HIT and forging lasting personal and professional connections. The experience not only broadened students’ horizons but also inspired future collaboration and innovation in building environment and energy engineering.
The photo gallery can be found here.
