Last summer, EdUHK and Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) in Saudi Arabia successfully concluded a two-way summer exchange programme that brought together students, educators, and cultures in a shared pursuit of learning and global understanding.
The initiative, which focused on academic enrichment, language acquisition, and cultural immersion, reflects the growing commitment of both institutions to foster internationalisation and build meaningful partnerships across borders.
Dr David Kang Jong-hyuk, Director of General Education at EdUHK, led a group of 10 students to Saudi Arabia, where they participated in a four-week credit-bearing Summer Arabic Language Programme hosted by UQU. Designed for beginners, the course offered intensive training in listening, speaking, reading and writing, while also introducing students to the cultural and historical richness of the region.
The experience extended well beyond the classroom, however. Students explored the historic cities of Jeddah and Taif, gaining first-hand insights into Saudi Arabia’s dynamic approach to talent development, scientific innovation, and cultural preservation. A highlight of the trip was learning about the Mawhiba Programme, a national initiative that empowers young people and promotes a culture of creativity and sustainable progress.
Students returned with more than just improved Arabic skills. Immersed in an authentic linguistic environment, they developed confidence, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the rich Saudi culture and its traditions. The combination of daily language classes and real-world engagement helped bridge theory and practice, enhancing both communication and critical thinking.
In a reciprocal gesture, EdUHK welcomed 10 students from UQU, accompanied by Dr Majed Mahmood Farrash, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence. The visiting students joined EdUHK’s newly launched four-week Summer Short-term Programme 2025.
This successful two-way exchange marks a significant step in EdUHK’s strategic engagement with the Middle East. By cultivating partnerships with institutions like UQU, EdUHK continues to position Hong Kong as a vibrant international hub for education, dialogue, and cross-cultural collaboration. As both universities look to the future, this partnership stands as a testament to the transformative power of shared learning and the enduring value of global connection.
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