From November 14 to 16, 2025, two exchange programs officially commenced under the support of the Ministry of Education’s “Ten Thousand Student Interflow Programme” (known as the “10,000 Talents Programme”): “Ideological and Political Education in the Greater Bay Area from the Perspective of the Chinese National Community” and “Cybersecurity Technology Exchange Project.” Over 50 HKCT teachers and students embarked on an exchange journey to Shenzhen Polytechnic University (SZPU).
Patriotic Spirit: Raising One Flag Together, Striving for a New Era
The national flag guard teams of both colleges marched in with firm and powerful Chinese-style formations and raised the same national flag together. This was not just a ceremonial drill—it was a profound lesson in patriotic education.
This year’s theme for the ideological and political class was “Raising One Flag Together, Striving for a New Era.” It is more than a slogan; it is an elevation and continuation of the spirit behind the previous joint flag-raising events in 2023 (“Raising One Flag Together, Drawing a Circle of Unity”) and 2024 (“Raising One Flag Together, Joining Hands in the Greater Bay Area”). The reason this activity has received strong support from both institutions and the Liaison Office for consecutive years is simple: patriotism never goes out of style—it grows stronger with time. On the morning of November 15, the flag guard teams marched onto the SZPU sports ground. Under the solemn strains of the national anthem and the gaze of over 200 teachers and students, the national flag was raised. The ceremony was simple yet dignified, inspiring deep respect.
“The Story of Flags”: From Symbolism to Cultural Roots
To ensure patriotism goes beyond ritual, Professor LAM Sam, Associate Vice President of HKCT, delivered a special lecture titled “The Story of Flags” as part of HKCT’s “i-opening Class” series at SZPU. With humor and historical depth, he connected thousands of years of history, making the profound meaning behind flags vivid and engaging for over a hundred teachers and students.
Wu Hoi Wan, a student in the Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance), shared: “What touched me most was Professor Lam’s explanation of the history of the national flag. He spoke so vividly about the stories behind the flag, the meaning of its colors, and the significance of flag-raising. I realized that any culture that can endure for thousands of years must have deep historical roots and inspiring meaning. This made me even prouder of our own culture.”
Striving for Excellence: Learning from Tiananmen Flag Guards
Beyond cultural enrichment, this exchange was also a sharpening of professional skills. SZPU specially invited Zeng Rong, a retired Army Honor Guard from the PLA Honor Guard and former PLA Navy Color Guard Member (Tiananmen Flag Raising Ceremony), to provide training for both schools’ flag guard teams.
For HKCT flag guard member Lau Chun Long, this was a dream come true: “I’ve often seen him teaching flag-raising at different schools online and hoped for a chance to learn from him. This time, I finally learned the details and techniques of Chinese-style formations under his guidance. I corrected many small mistakes and deepened my understanding of the movements. I’m honored to have been chosen as the left flag guard! It was my first time raising the flag with Mainland students—and my first time carrying a rifle.”
Cyber Power: Advancing Cultural Confidence and Technological Practice
Another highlight of this exchange was the in-depth interaction in cybersecurity. SZPU instructors not only taught HKCT students practical tools for cybersecurity but also systematically explained the evolution of cyber laws and regulations, emphasizing the importance of compliance.
Wu Hoi Wan reflected:“I realized that even casually clicking a link or forwarding information could cross a legal red line. This activity taught me not only technical skills but also gave me a deeper understanding of our culture and responsibilities.” This perfectly illustrates the dual goal of the exchange—pursuing technical excellence while building a sense of responsibility.
Another student, Siu Ka Yan, added: “I’m thrilled to have joined this exchange. It enriched my subject knowledge and improved my practical skills. The cybersecurity lecture and visit to the Innovation Academy’s labs were eye-opening. I look forward to more opportunities like this to broaden my horizons.”
Mission and Responsibility: Jointly Nurturing a New Generation for the Greater Bay Area
HKCT and SZPU, as higher vocational colleges with a strong sense of mission, have not only strengthened their friendship through this exchange but also planted seeds of cultural confidence and professional confidence in the hearts of young students. Moving forward, both schools will continue to shoulder the responsibility of cultivating talents for the new era, deepen cooperation, and jointly promote a patriotic spirit, contributing to the prosperity and development of the Greater Bay Area.
