Extended Study Programme – Activity Highlights 2023-2024

Excursion to the Middle East 2023-2024

Students under ESP embarked on an enriching one-week excursion to the Middle East in 2023-2024.

The adventure kicked off in Dubai, a bustling metropolis renowned as the economic and financial heartbeat of the region. Students explored the vibrant financial district, connecting with local business leaders to gain insights into Dubai's global economic significance.

A visit to the CCTV Middle East Headquarters shed light on the media industry's evolution in the region, showcasing China's cultural influence on the international stage and sparking a newfound appreciation for media dynamics among students.

The group then ventured to esteemed institutions of higher learning, starting with the prestigious American University of Sharjah (AUS) in the UAE, known for its academic excellence and diverse campus environment. Next on the agenda was Khalifa University (KU), renowned for its top-tier faculty, groundbreaking research initiatives, and global academic partnerships. These visits provided a firsthand experience of the global educational landscape, enriched by engaging discussions with industry leaders and research pioneers. 

 

 

 

Continuing their exploration, the Middle East study group visited Abu Dhabi, the captivating capital of the United Arab Emirates, brimming with cultural treasures and architectural marvels. Highlights included visits to iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Presidential Palace, and Louvre Abu Dhabi – the museum on water, offering an overview into the Emirati culture and artistic heritage.

 

 

The journey culminated in Riyadh, the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia, where students were captivated by the exhilarating Red Sand Dunes, each step a thrilling adventure waiting to be unveiled. An unforgettable night at the Sports Arena immersed participants in the electrifying world of football competitions, creating lasting memories of joy and excitement.

Entrepreneurship Activities 2023-2024

To gain access and intelligence to Chinese business giants, students had the unique opportunities to visit Tencent, Huawei, and China Resources Enterprise under the Extended Study Programme. These visits were complemented by engaging leadership talks and innovative entrepreneurial workshops that offered invaluable insights into dynamic business strategies and the entrepreneurial spirit of successful business professionals. Students networked meaningfully with industry leaders, paving the way for a promising future in the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

In the quest to explore cutting-edge research and technological advancements in the country, ESP participants had the privilege of visiting the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, China Academy of Sciences, the heart of innovation and research in the region. Participants shadowed researchers in state-of-the-art laboratories, gaining firsthand exposure to the captivating world of high-performance medical robotics and innovative research.

The ESP program also provided multiple occasions of company visits to establishments like the Southern Metropolis Daily and another strart-up companies. Students witnessed real-life business operations from various business sectors, engaged in meaningful discussions with employers about the skills required to excel in the competitive job market. Participants were inspired by the diversity of career paths available and the countless possibilities awaiting them in GBA.

Campus Life

Exceptional as ESP does, opportunities were everywhere for extraordinary campus experience. Our past participants enrolled in a wide range of activities, including archery sessions, campfire gatherings, and captivating cultural events like the dragon dance performance. These diverse experiences added vibrancy and enriched their campus life.

Students were transformed into ancient Chinese archers, conquering their campus life with enhanced focus and precision. Dancing as a dragon with a dynamic team of energetic youths, students closely bonded with UIC peers and were fully integrated into the relaxing campus environment, making long-lasting friendship through laughs and wonders. As night falls, various forms of social gatherings, campfires and cultural events created altogether lasting memories of enjoyable time with peers, staff and professors in UIC.