Ten members of the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team, led by Prof. Geoffrey Shen, Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships), and Prof. Horace Mui, Dean of Students, participated in the “Salute to the National Flag” Hong Kong and Macao Youth Flag-Raising Teams’ Beijing Visit Delegation from 18 to 22 September. Through a rich programme of exchanges, visits and experiential learning activities, students gained a deeper understanding of the nation’s history, culture and development, while further strengthening their national identity, sense of belonging and commitment to serving as ambassadors of the national flag on campus.
A key milestone of the visit was the delegation’s reception at the Great Hall of the People, where members were received by Mr Ding Xuexiang, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council, and Mr Xia Baolong, Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council. The occasion underscored the nation’s care and expectations for the younger generation and encouraged students to contribute actively to the development of Hong Kong and the country.
Students also attended the national flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square. Witnessing the solemn ceremony in person enabled them to appreciate more profoundly the significance of the national flag as a symbol of national sovereignty, unity and dignity. The experience inspired students to reflect on the responsibilities they shoulder as members of the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team and strengthened their pride in the nation.
Another highlight was the exchange with the People’s Liberation Army Ceremonial Escort Battalion. Through close observation of the guards’ impeccable discipline, precision and professionalism, students gained valuable insights into the rigorous training and unwavering dedication behind every national flag-raising ceremony. The experience reinforced the values of discipline, perseverance and excellence, motivating students to raise their own standards in training and ceremonial duties.
The delegation also visited the National Museum of China and the Palace Museum, where students explored the breadth of Chinese civilisation and gained a deeper appreciation of the country’s rich cultural heritage and historical development. These visits enabled them to better understand China’s journey from its historical foundations to its modern achievements.
Visits to Peking University and Tsinghua University provided valuable opportunities for exchanges with Mainland students. Through discussions on academic pursuits, campus life and aspirations for the future, students broadened their horizons and developed a stronger appreciation of the important role young people can play in the country’s development.
Reflecting on the visit, participants shared that the delegation offered a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding of China’s development and achievements. More importantly, it strengthened their sense of national identity and pride, while inspiring them to continue promoting respect for the national flag and patriotism within the University community. As members of the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team, they are committed to carrying forward the values and lessons gained from the visit and contributing to the cultivation of patriotism and national education on campus.
