In its efforts to foster national pride and unity, PolyU is taking a proactive role in enhancing patriotic education. Recently, PolyU collaborated with Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU) to establish “The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Patriotic Education Base (Xi’an)” (the Base). This initiative marks a historic milestone as PolyU becomes the first university in Hong Kong to create a demonstration base for patriotic education on the Chinese Mainland. By leveraging shared resources and strengths, this partnership aims to cultivate socially responsible professionals and leaders who embody a strong sense of national pride and a global outlook, thereby contributing significantly to the betterment of society and the Nation as a whole.

During the unveiling ceremony, officiating guest Dr Lam Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU emphasised the University’s commitment to supporting national strategies and dedication to advancing patriotic education. He stated, “Through curriculum design and other diverse activities, our ‘Patriotic Education Base’ will enable staff and students to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and to appreciate the Nation’s century-long efforts in modernisation and remarkable achievements in the new era. This will strengthen their sense of national pride and belonging to the country, empowering them to better integrate into the overall national development and contribute to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.”

Another distinguished officiating guest was Professor Lu Jianjun, Secretary of the CPC Xi’an Jiaotong University Committee. He emphasised that this initiative will deepen cooperation in talent cultivation, collaborative research, and cultural exchange, fostering a new generation equipped to take on the responsibility of national rejuvenation between the two universities.

PolyU and XJTU have collaborated for over 20 years, with the establishment of the Patriotic Education Base marking a new milestone. Both universities will form dedicated task forces and a teaching centre at “Xi’an Tongli International College” for interactive learning activities. PolyU’s undergraduate curriculum requires students to complete General University Requirements, including Cluster-Area Requirements subjects in Chinese history and culture. The programme will integrate overseas field studies, allowing students to explore these topics in Xi’an.

Additionally, the Base will also foster research collaboration in emerging fields and promote Service-Learning projects to enhance social responsibility and national pride. With support from the Central Government, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, and the local government in the Chinese Mainland, PolyU is preparing a student delegation to visit Xi’an in spring 2026.

A MoU was signed by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng (left) and Prof. Zhang Liqun, President of XJTU (right).