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 the award presentation ceremony for the Hong Kong Secondary Student Space Station Popular Science Payload and Science Experiment Design Challenge on September 21, 2023. The event recognized outstanding student teams for their innovative space science experiments, showcasing the future of technological advancement in Hong Kong.
During the ceremony, Dr. SZE Chun-Fai, the Under Secretary for Education, highlighted the EDB’s commitment to promoting innovation and technology (I&T) education in schools. In line with the national strategy of “invigorating the nation through science and education,” the EDB is introducing a new science subject in primary schools alongside an updated junior secondary science curriculum. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive foundation in science over nine years, incorporating aerospace and I&T elements to enhance students’ scientific literacy and foster a sense of national pride.
Dr. Sze commended the participating students for their creative proposals, which integrated mathematical, technological knowledge, and innovative thinking nurtured through their education. He noted that the four Special Gold Award winning proposals are currently being refined with the help of expert teams, with a potential recommendation for inclusion in the “Space Station Hong Kong Popular Science Satellite” national aerospace mission set for 2026.
Dr. ZHONG Hongen, the Deputy Chief Engineer of CAS-TECSU, emphasized the role of aerospace science education in inspiring young minds and cultivating national pride. He expressed hope that this initiative would ignite the aspirations of Hong Kong’s youth to explore the universe. In a keynote address, Dr. Zhong discussed the latest advancements in Mainland China’s aerospace industry and the critical importance of space science research, which greatly benefited the educators and students present.
In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Tim CHENG, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST, expressed gratitude to the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Education Bureau, CAS-TECSU, and all supportive organizations. He acknowledged their essential contributions in creating a platform for students to demonstrate their innovative capabilities. Prof. Cheng stated, “The remarkable creativity and enthusiasm for space technology displayed by the participants are truly inspiring. These students represent the future of technological advancement in Hong Kong.”
This year’s challenge marks the inaugural collaboration between the EDB, CAS-TECSU, and HKUST, with support from 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. Partner organizations include the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre, the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers, and Education Convergence.
Since its launch in February, the challenge has attracted approximately 750 students from 100 secondary schools, demonstrating significant interest and engagement. Following the awards ceremony, attendees participated in an exhibition featuring the learning outcomes and experimental proposals from the 16 Gold Award-winning teams. This exhibition encouraged peer exchange and fostered interest in aerospace technology among students, contributing to the ongoing development of science education in Hong Kong.
As these young innovators move forward, their journey represents not just personal achievements but also a collective step toward enhancing the future of technological innovation and the aerospace industry in the region.
