Global Youth Eye on Guangzhou | The First Group of British Young Ambassadors Visit HKUST

HKUST (GZ) Main Campus

This summer, Alex SMITH and Ella SICE, two undergraduate students from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, embarked on a remarkable journey as part of the inaugural cohort of Guangzhou-Bristol Young Ambassadors.
Their adventure in Guangzhou, the capital of China’s economic and innovation powerhouse Guangdong, not only involved attending a seven-week summer school but also played a crucial role in fortifying the ties between their home city and its Chinese twin, a partnership that celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
This innovative youth exchange program was swiftly established thanks to the leadership’s commitment to strengthening the relationship between the University of Bristol and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), a partnership that has flourished since the visit of Professor Lionel NI, President of HKUST(GZ), to the UK in June 2025.
In March, during a return visit by Professor Evelyn WELCH, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol, both institutions signed two agreements aimed at enhancing student exchange and strategic partnerships, culminating in the launch of the Young Ambassador program.

Interview video: Alex SMITH

SMITH, a microbiology student, described his experience as "incredibly rewarding". He was particularly inspired by the technological advancements showcased at the INNOTECH upon their arrival in June.
"Seeing how technology can support my studies and future research back in Bristol has truly inspired me," he reflected, noting the state-of-the-art facilities at HKUST(GZ) that enhanced his learning.

Alex experienced the project "Benefit Game: Alien Seaweed Swarms" on campus.

Beyond academics, SMITH was moved by the warmth of the local community. "The support from my teachers helped me settle into university life quickly, even as I took courses outside my original degree," he shared. The friendships he cultivated with peers from around the globe enabled him to create "a global network of new friends, peers, and academics", enriching his overall experience.

Interview video: Ella SICE

For SICE, who majors in chemistry, the interdisciplinary approach of HKUST(GZ) left a profound impression.
"I loved being able to study subjects beyond the scope of my chemistry field," she said, singling out a robotics course that introduced her to cutting-edge technology. "The attitude towards technology here feels quite futuristic," she remarked.
The summer school attracted students from 14 different countries, allowing Sice to engage with diverse educational systems and cultures. "This broadened my perspective on higher education and showcased the multitude of paths available," she noted.

Beyond the Classroom

Their role as Young Ambassadors extended well beyond the classroom. They participated in local cultural experiences, including enjoying hotpot at the Dragon Boat Festival in Guangzhou, and traveling to nearby cities like Shenzhen, as well as Hong Kong, which deepened their understanding of both traditional and modern China.

Summer school students tour around Guangzhou city.

On July 15, the ambassadors, including SMITH and SICE, met with Mr. Nicholas DUVIVIER, the Deputy Consul General of the British Consulate General in Guangzhou. During this meeting, they discussed their impressions of HKUST(GZ) and shared insights about the region's rapid technological development and vibrant cultural landscape.
DUVIVIER encouraged them to explore beyond the classroom, emphasizing the importance of these experiences for their future studies and careers.

Mr. DUVIVIER meets with student ambassadors.

The culmination of their journey took place on July 28, when President NI, President of HKUST(GZ), presented SMITH, SICE, and their fellow ambassadors with certificates during a ceremony on campus.
"By supporting programs like the Guangzhou-Bristol Young Ambassador initiative, we are transforming academic collaboration into a powerful tool for cultural exchange and friendship between China and the UK," NI said. "As Young Ambassadors, you are central to this effort, ensuring that Guangzhou and Bristol remain friends for generations to come."

President NI exchanges with Bristol guests.

Both SMITH and SICE agreed that the summer school was a profoundly enriching experience. As Guangzhou-Bristol Young Ambassadors, they view their role as connectors between two vibrant cities. "I wanted to use this opportunity to strengthen collaboration between our universities and share my experiences," SMITH explained. SICE, too, hopes to maintain the friendships and professional connections she has forged. "I would love to return in the future," she added with a smile.

Next week, the second cohort of Young Ambassadors from the University of Bristol will arrive in Guangzhou to participate in HKUST(GZ)’s PLACE Summer Camp, joining 570 students from more than 40 countries. This ongoing exchange promises to deepen the bonds between Guangzhou and Bristol, fostering a spirit of collaboration and cultural understanding that will endure for years to come.
Source: 香港科技大学（广州）