The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), in collaboration with the Education Bureau (EDB) and the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-TECSU), hosted an award presentation ceremony on September 21, 2023. This event recognized outstanding student teams for their innovative contributions to the Hong Kong Secondary Student Space Station Popular Science Payload and Science Experiment Design Challenge.
During the ceremony, Dr. SZE Chun-Fai, the Under Secretary for Education, emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and technology (I&T) education in primary and secondary schools. He noted that this aligns with the national strategy of “invigorating the nation through science and education.” As part of this initiative, a new science subject was introduced in primary schools, complementing an updated junior secondary science curriculum. This curriculum aims to provide a comprehensive nine-year integrated foundational science education, incorporating aerospace and I&T elements to enhance students’ understanding of national advancements and foster a sense of belonging.
Dr. Sze commended the participating students for their impressive integration of mathematical and technological knowledge, which led to the creation of highly creative space experiment proposals. He remarked that the four proposals awarded the Special Gold Award are currently undergoing optimization with professional guidance. These projects may be considered for inclusion in the “Space Station Hong Kong Popular Science Satellite” national aerospace mission scheduled for 2026.
Dr. ZHONG Hongen, Deputy Chief Engineer of CAS-TECSU, highlighted that aerospace science education is crucial not only for knowledge dissemination but also for inspiring young people’s passion for science and promoting national pride. He expressed hope that this initiative would ignite the dreams of Hong Kong’s youth to explore the universe. Dr. Zhong also delivered a keynote speech on the significant developments in Mainland China’s aerospace industry, which provided valuable insights to teachers and students present.
In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Tim CHENG, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST, expressed gratitude to the EDB, CAS-TECSU, and all supporting organizations. He stated, “Their invaluable support has enabled HKUST to co-organize this challenge, offering an exceptional platform for young minds to demonstrate their innovative thinking and hands-on capabilities.” Prof. Cheng encouraged the students to nurture their curiosity for deep space exploration and contribute to the nation’s aerospace achievements.
This year’s challenge marked a significant collaboration for the first time between the EDB, CAS-TECSU, and HKUST, with the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region providing support. Partner organizations included the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre, the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers, and Education Convergence.
Since its launch in February 2023, the challenge attracted approximately 750 students from 100 secondary schools, demonstrating a strong interest in space science. Following the award presentation, attendees participated in an exhibition showcasing the learning outcomes and experiment proposals from the 16 Gold Award-winning teams. This exhibition encouraged peer exchange among students and aimed to spark further interest in aerospace technology, thereby promoting the advancement of science education in Hong Kong.
