College of Business
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Undergraduate students explore Laos in a 28-day study tour


11 undergraduate students in different majors have completed a 28-day study tour in Laos. The programme took place between 20 July and 16 August, and was the College’s third Summer Learning Programme in Laos. It was sponsored by CityU Global Engagement Office and was co-organised by National University of Laos (NUOL). NUOL sent 13 students to join with CityU students in the journey.

Led by Dr Michael Wong, Associate Professor of the Department of Economics and Finance, the programme provided students opportunities to explore Laos and learn about the culture, national policies on sustainable development and business opportunities there under the Belt-and-Road initiative. The student group visited more than 20 organisations in different cities of the country, including commercial banks, the stock exchange, organic coffee farms, vocational training institutes, foreign factories, hydropower stations, and special economic zones. Through various teamwork activities with NUOL students, CityU students gained understanding about the culture in Laos and built friendship with people there.   

Year two student Aggie Ren from the Department of Economics and Finance said the programme has strengthened her living skills and taught her to be more open-minded. She said, “Living in a totally unfamiliar environment is a challenge for me. After trying new dishes, new drinks, and new skills, I started to explore those interesting aspects of Laos. The passion of Laos people truly influences me, giving me a different perspective on the world. After this programme, I begin to accept differences.”

Another year four student Hyleas So from the Department of Information Systems said, “Through this programme, I have got a clearer picture about Laos’ economy in different aspects, especially its linkage with China’s Belt-and-Road Initiative.  Besides, working on group projects with students from NUOL enhanced my understanding on local issues.  The journey provided me with diverse views on Southeast Asia’s economy and tourism, thanks to the company visits and the field trips organised by the programme.”