Lingnan University in Hong Kong has launched its first-ever four-day orientation programme to welcome 147 inbound exchange students from 26 countries, marking a significant step in enhancing Hong Kong’s reputation as a global education hub. The students, coming from a diverse range of countries including China, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain, the UK, and the US, represent over 70 partner institutions worldwide. They will be attending the spring term of the 2024/25 academic year, with the number of inbound exchange students seeing a remarkable 122% increase compared to the previous spring term.
The comprehensive orientation programme, which took place from January 6 to 9, 2025, was organized by the Office of Global Education. Its aim was to ensure the students felt welcomed and well-prepared for their academic and cultural journey at Lingnan University. The programme featured a variety of engaging activities designed to help the newcomers settle into their new environment, covering everything from university life to the rich culture of Hong Kong.
On January 6 and 7, staff members and student ambassadors greeted the exchange students at Hong Kong International Airport, guiding them to the university campus and familiarizing them with campus facilities. The students were also introduced to life at Lingnan University, with orientation sessions covering topics such as hostel living, local customs, and tips for adjusting to life in Hong Kong. These activities were designed to ensure the students would not only excel academically but also feel at home in their new surroundings.
The programme also provided opportunities for cultural exchange and community building. Approximately 40 undergraduate 'buddy' student ambassadors were assigned to meet the exchange students, helping them form interest groups, explore the city, and adapt to their new environment. A special highlight of the orientation was a welcoming lunch at the Lingnan Chinese Restaurant, where the new students had the chance to enjoy traditional local cuisine and socialize with local students and staff, fostering cross-cultural friendships.
The final day of the orientation programme, January 9, included two cultural excursions to deepen the students' understanding of Hong Kong’s rich heritage. Students visited The Mills in Tsuen Wan, a revitalized industrial site that showcases contemporary art and design, and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District, which displays a vast collection of Chinese art and cultural treasures. These excursions were designed to immerse the students in the local culture and provide a deeper connection to the city’s historical and artistic roots.
Prof Bradley R. Barnes, Interim Associate Vice-President (Global Affairs) and Director of Global Education at Lingnan University, expressed his commitment to providing a supportive environment for the exchange students. He said, “We believe these activities will help our inbound exchange students feel at home and make the most of their time here. The positive feedback from the students highlights that these activities are not only enjoyable but also enriching. They are gaining insights into life in Hong Kong and the dynamic university culture at Lingnan”.
The exchange students will spend at least one semester at Lingnan University, where they will engage with a diverse and inspiring academic community. The Office of Global Education will continue to offer comprehensive support throughout their stay, assisting with academic, accommodation, food, and transportation needs, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all students.
