A delegation of 55 staff and students from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), recently completed a Service Learning programme in Sri Lanka, combining technological innovation, community engagement and cross-cultural exchange.
During the programme, the team visited the Joint Research and Demonstration Center for Water Technology (JRDC) and participated in academic exchanges with the University of Peradeniya. Students gained first-hand exposure to local sustainability initiatives and water technology applications, while exploring how geospatial technologies can contribute to community development.
The delegation was welcomed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya. Ir. Prof. Wallace Lai, Associate Head of LSGI, highlighted the importance of Service Learning in connecting academic knowledge with real-world challenges and fostering global citizenship among students.
As part of the programme, Dr. Yawei Wang from the Chinese Academy of Sciences delivered a guest lecture on scientific innovation and international collaboration. The session provided valuable insights into emerging technologies and inspired students to consider the broader societal impact of scientific research.
A key component of the programme was educational outreach in primary and secondary schools in Galle. LSGI students designed and delivered a series of interactive workshops featuring Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and LiDAR technologies. These hands-on activities introduced local students to cutting-edge geospatial technologies and stimulated their interest in science and innovation.
The team also organized Chinese cultural activities, including lacquer fan painting, tie-dye art, music, and sports sessions. These activities encouraged meaningful interaction between students from different cultural backgrounds and promoted mutual understanding and friendship.
The programme received highly positive feedback from local schools and community partners. For participating students, the experience provided a unique opportunity to apply their professional knowledge in a real-world setting while developing leadership, communication and intercultural competencies.
This Service Learning initiative reflects PolyU and LSGI’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible graduates and advancing international engagement through education, technology and community service. As Sri Lanka is an important partner country under the Belt and Road Initiative, the programme provided a valuable platform for strengthening educational cooperation, cultural exchange and capacity building, while fostering long-term partnerships that contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.
