Extended Study Programme – Germany Excursion 2024-2025
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Excursion to Berlin, Germany 2024-2025
In June, as part of the Extended Study Programme, HKBU students embarked on an unforgettable faculty-led excursion to Berlin. Themed “Exchange, Dialogue and Collaboration between China and Germany”, the week immersed students in a series of curated visits and exchanges, offering a dynamic blend of academic, cultural and experiential learning and a firsthand look at how China’s growing presence is shaping industries, influencing global trends and driving global collaboration.
Key Pillars Explored
- Trade and Investment
- Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation
- Energy and Sustainability
- Culture, Arts and Education
Meeting Global Leaders
Through meetings with global leaders and senior stakeholders—including the Acting Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO), the Chief Officer of ICBC Berlin, the Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Germany, and the Head of Administration at the German Chinese Chamber of Commerce—students gained valuable insights into the global trade and investment landscape.
At HKETO Berlin, they learned about Hong Kong’s pivotal role in connecting China with Europe, reinforcing the importance of strategic hubs in international cooperation. These sessions deepened students’ understanding of how economic policy and cross-border collaboration shape global relations.
Beyond knowledge, these encounters offered high-level exposure to global developments and left students inspired by the vision and expertise of leaders driving innovation on the world stage.
Inside Leading Organisations
Students journeyed into the heart of China-Germany collaboration through visits to key organisations. They learned Hong Kong’s pivotal role in connecting China with Europe at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Berlin. They explored how SAP, a global leader in enterprise software solutions, leverages digital technology to enhance business efficiency and support zero emission targets. Students also engaged in Siemens’ hands-on energy planning workshop addressing real-world sustainability challenges, observed advanced automation at BMW’s Motorrad Plant, and experienced NIO House Berlin – a vibrant space where the pioneering Chinese electric vehicle brand advances sustainability initiatives while building its brand through fostering a strong community.
Discovering Germany through Social and Cultural Lens
Students gained deeper insight into Germany’s social and cultural landscape through diverse experiences. A lecture in the plenary chamber of the Bundestag (Germany’s national parliament) - the very space where Germany’s federal legislative decisions are debated and made - highlighted how parliamentary dialogue shapes national policies.
During their visit to the House of Federal Press Conference, a veteran journalist shared his career journey, sparking discussions on how technology shapes the global media landscape.
Interactive exhibits at Futurium, Germany’s museum of the future,encouraged critical thinking about innovation, sustainability, and the future.
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Cross-Cultural Exchange at Humboldt University of Berlin
One of the most memorable moments was the roundtable discussions with students from Humboldt University of Berlin. Guided by faculty from both institutions, these peer-to-peer dialogues fostered meaningful cultural exchange, encouraged open sharing on academic and career aspirations, sparked thoughtful reflection, and strengthened students’ intercultural communication skills and sense of global citizenship.
Building on these conversations, a networking dinner with the Head of UNIDO ITPO Germany, Acting Director of HKETO, and students and faculty from Humboldt University provided an extended platform for connection. It enabled students to deepen dialogue, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations with senior leaders in a more informal and engaging setting.
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A Launchpad for Globally-minded Leaders
Through a well-rounded programme of company visits, cultural experiences, and academic exchanges during the Germany Excursion, students gained practical exposure to international cooperation and developed a deeper understanding of global challenges. This transformative journey encouraged them to step beyond their comfort zones, connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, and reflect on their potential as future professionals and engaged global citizens.