The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), 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. This event recognized outstanding student teams for their innovative designs in space science experiments.
During the ceremony, Dr. SZE Chun-Fai, the Under Secretary for Education, emphasized the EDB’s commitment to enhancing innovation and technology education in Hong Kong’s primary and secondary schools. He highlighted the introduction of a new science subject in primary schools, which complements the updated junior secondary science curriculum, achieving a comprehensive “Nine-Year Integrated” foundational science education. This approach incorporates elements of aerospace and innovation and technology, aimed at increasing students’ scientific literacy and fostering a sense of national pride.
Dr. Sze commended the students for their creative proposals, which showcased their ability to integrate mathematical and technological knowledge. He noted that the four Special Gold Award-winning proposals are currently being refined 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.
In his remarks, Dr. ZHONG Hongen, Deputy Chief Engineer of CAS-TECSU, underscored the importance of aerospace education. He stated that it not only disseminates knowledge but also inspires young people’s enthusiasm for science and nurtures a sense of national pride. Dr. Zhong delivered a keynote speech detailing the latest advancements in China’s aerospace industry, emphasizing the critical role of space science research.
The event’s welcoming address was given by Prof. Tim CHENG, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST. He expressed gratitude to the EDB, CAS-TECSU, and all supporting organizations for their dedication to the challenge. Prof. Cheng remarked, “Their invaluable support has enabled HKUST to co-organize this initiative, providing a platform for young minds to showcase their innovative thinking and hands-on skills. The creativity and enthusiasm for space technology displayed by the participants are truly inspiring.”
The challenge, organized for the first time by EDB, CAS-TECSU, and HKUST, has received significant interest since its launch in February 2023. Approximately 750 students from 100 secondary schools participated, demonstrating a strong commitment to exploring aerospace science.
Following the awards ceremony, attendees, including guests, teachers, and students, participated in an exhibition at HKUST. This event showcased the learning outcomes and experiment proposals of the 16 Gold Award-winning teams. The exhibition provided opportunities for peer exchange and learning, further stimulating interest in aerospace technology and promoting the advancement of science education in Hong Kong.
This initiative reflects a growing emphasis on integrating innovative practices into education, preparing future generations for careers in technology and aerospace. The collaborative efforts of HKUST, EDB, and CAS-TECSU signify a commitment to nurturing a scientifically literate and technologically adept populace in Hong Kong.
