CUHK
News Centre
Xue Long 2’s scientists visited CUHK and engaged in a dialogue with more than 300 people
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) held the two-day “Global Conference on Climate Change: Polar Studies, Environment and Climate Change”, which is one of the events marking the inaugural visit of the nation’s first domestically built polar icebreaker, Xue Long 2, to Hong Kong. Apart from the academic conference held at CUHK, CUHK and the Hong Kong Science Museum also respectively organised a scientist-student dialogue session today, enabling students in Hong Kong to have an in-depth understanding of the nation’s scientific research achievements in the polar regions.
Today (10 April), Xue Long 2’s scientists participated in a dialogue with more than 300 students from CUHK, local secondary students, and representatives from the media. Apart from Mr Luo Guangfu, a member of the scientific research expedition and Senior Engineer of the Polar Research Institute of China who attended the dialogue in person, the students were also connected to the scientists based in the Antarctic China Zhongshan Station (“Zhongshan Station”) online. They are Mr Hu Zejun, Station Leader and Professor in Space Physics, Mr Ji Tuo, Associate Professor in Astronomy who is responsible for astro observation, and Mr Wang Anliang, Senior Engineer, who is responsible for sea ice/weather monitoring.
During the session, the scientists shared the results of their 40th scientific research expedition to Antarctica with the students and highlighted the importance of the polar regions in the global climate system. They provided a detailed account to the students, who showed great respect for the scientists and a keen interest in understanding the challenges and rewards of working in such an extreme environment. The students were fascinated by the scientists’ interactions with Antarctic animals, such as penguins and seals, which occurred in close proximity.
Mr Luo Guangfu expressed that despite the challenges and difficulties, scientific research expeditions to Antarctica hold immense meaning and far-reaching significance. He encouraged young people to be proactive to learn about climate change and be courageous to explore, and eventually contribute to a sustainable future.
Miss Wai Ching, a CUHK Science Faculty student who participated in the dialogue session, said the conversation with the scientists provided valuable insights into the polar science research undertaken by Xue Long 2 and its goals in the future. She greatly admired the researchers’ efforts and their commitment to protecting the ecosystem of the Antarctic. She looked forward to applying her knowledge and actively participating in campaigns that combat climate change in the future.
The dialogue session was moderated by Ms Natalie Chung, the inaugural MoCC Scholar of the Jockey Club Museum of Climate Change at CUHK (the MoCC). The MoCC, one of the co-organisers of the conference, introduced the “MoCC Scholars” programme last year to nurture a new generation of green leaders. This programme supports exceptional CUHK alumni who have served as museum ambassadors and remained actively engaged in environmental affairs and climate action after graduation.
CUHK has long been committed to promoting sustainable development, one of the key focuses outlined in the University’s Strategic Plan. The students’ enthusiasm during the event demonstrated the commitment of the next generation to building a sustainable society. CUHK remains committed to expanding its investment in scientific research and supporting students undertaking polar science research. These efforts aim to make meaningful contributions to the fight against global climate change and the advancement of sustainable development.
(Second from left) Mr Luo Guangfu, a member of the scientific research expedition and Senior Engineer of the Polar Research Institute of China; Miss Wai Ching, Mr Ivan Wong Cheuk-hang and Miss Lorraine Wong Lok-ying, students from CUHK; Miss Zhuang Ziyue, student from Pui Kiu College; Miss Lo Pui-sze and Mr Damon Lee To-sang, students from Pui Ching Middle School, discussed the achievement of the nation in scientific research in the polar regions during “A dialogue with the scientists of Xue Long 2”. The dialogue was moderated by Ms Natalie Chung (far left), the inaugural MoCC Scholar of the Jockey Club Museum of Climate Change at CUHK.
Scientists based in the Antarctic China Zhongshan Station shared their lives and experiences of conducting scientific research in the polar regions with the students online.
More than 300 people participated in the event. With a full house of attendees, the audience was captivated by the nation's scientific research in the polar regions.
Mr Luo Guangfu, Senior Engineer of the Polar Research Institute of China, shares the results of the 40th scientific research expedition to Antarctica with students.
