The College of Business successfully organised the Challenge Tour to Singapore 2026 from 19–26 May 2026 at Singapore Management University (SMU). The programme combined academic learning with real-world exposure through lectures, company visits and hands-on activities, enabling students to explore innovation, artificial intelligence and Singapore’s development as a smart city.
Innovation and AI in Practice
A key highlight was the visits to the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS) and Microsoft Asia Pacific headquarters. At HMGICS, students experienced cutting-edge electric vehicle production through an immersive virtual reality (VR) demonstration and explored smart manufacturing, sustainable farming and mobility concepts, including the rooftop Sky Track. This was complemented by an insightful session at Microsoft on “How AI is Reshaping Roles and Products,” where students learned how artificial intelligence is transforming industries, redefining job roles and driving innovation, as well as the importance of adaptability and digital skills.
An SMU student introduces how the building uses technology to stay cool without air conditioning.
Students learn the cutting-edge electric vehicle production and sustainable mobility concepts at HMGICS.
Understanding Singapore Beyond the Classroom
Students also deepened their understanding of Singapore through both academic and cultural lenses. Lectures on Singapore’s smart city development illustrated how technology, urban planning and data-driven solutions enhance sustainability and quality of life. These insights were reinforced through a visit to Yoon’s Kitchen, where students explored social entrepreneurship and its community impact. Through a hands-on activity making traditional Teochew Png Kueh, they gained appreciation for how cultural heritage and business innovation can coexist.
Students harvest and taste fresh produce at HMGICS.
A fruitful visit to the Microsoft Asia Pacific headquarters.
From Learning to Application
Throughout the tour, students conducted site visits and worked in teams to develop presentations based on their observations. A “vibe coding” workshop equipped them with basic coding skills to enhance audience engagement. The champion team demonstrated these skills effectively in their final presentation through interactive features and creative delivery.
CB students present the app they developed during the Vibe Coding Workshop.
CB students try preparing traditional “Png Kueh” at Yoon’s Social Kitchen.
A Transformative Experience
Reflecting on the experience, Stella SHIH, a BBA Marketing student and recipient of the Best Speaker Award, shared, “This SMU Global Immersion was a masterclass in applied innovation. From the dizzying heights of the HMGICS Sky Track to the quiet reflection on urban planning at the Singapore City Gallery, every moment was a lesson in what a sustainable future could look like. I leave Singapore not just with a certificate and awards, but with a new lens for viewing my own city, Hong Kong, and its potential for smart, sustainable transformation.”
The Challenge Tour to Singapore 2026 once again highlights CB’s commitment to nurturing globally minded, future-ready business students through immersive, impactful learning experiences.
(From left) Prof SIA Choon Ling (CityUHK CB Associate Dean), Mr Jonathan NG (Senior Teaching Fellow of CityUHK Department of Accountancy), Best Speaker Awardees Stella SHIH (BBA Marketing student) and Joshua SZE (BBA Marketing student), and Prof KAN Siew Ning (SMU instructor).