Recently, a delegation of 21 faculty members and students from Khalifa University (UAE) concluded a transformative two-week winter camp in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Hosted by Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), the program offered an immersive blend of cutting-edge engineering coursework, industry site visits, and deep cultural exploration.
The program commenced at SYSU's Guangzhou South campus with an opening ceremony attended by Professor Fan Wang, Vice Chairman of the University Council, and H.E. Mariam Alshamsi, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Guangzhou. Both leaders underscored the camp's role as a milestone in the growing educational partnership and academic synergy between the UAE and China.
Bridging Theory and Application
The curriculum was built around the pillars of modern industry: smart manufacturing, green energy, and artificial intelligence. Students engaged in intensive lectures and direct dialogues with leading experts, gaining technical expertise that extended far beyond traditional textbooks.
A central highlight was a visit to the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology at SYSU, where students observed the laboratories, witnessing how basic research is transformed into practical industrial applications.
"All the lectures were extremely valuable, deepening our understanding of engineering from multiple perspectives," noted student Hamdan Alblooshi. He specifically highlighted Professor Peng Wang's sessions for linking theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. "This approach provided me with a broader, more innovative perspective for my own Senior Design Project. Witnessing the practical application of our knowledge has ignited a new spark of interest in our research."
Witnessing Innovation in the Greater Bay Area
The delegation's journey through the GBA—one of the world's most dynamic technology hubs—offered a front-row seat to China's digital transformation. The itinerary included:
Huawei Bantian Base & Dongguan R&D Center: Exploring global digital infrastructure.
Didi Autonomous Driving: Testing the future of smart commute technologies.
EHang Intelligent Flight Base: Experiencing low-altitude urban mobility solutions.
GAC Aion Intelligent Eco-Factory: Observing high-efficiency manufacturing of new energy vehicles (NEVs).
Baiyun Electric: Studying sustainable energy and carbon reduction solutions.
Cultural Immersion and Global Responsibility
The program also balanced technology with tradition. From exploring Lingnan culture at the Guangdong Museum to visiting the White Swan Pond Culture and Arts Center, students experienced the harmonious blend of history and modernity that defines the region.
"Our time in Guangzhou gave us a profound appreciation for China's historical heritage and innovative vitality," reflected student Amna Alneyadi. "We realized that engineering solutions cannot be divorced from reality; they must incorporate cultural awareness and global responsibility. We truly felt the 'China speed' behind the region's economic transformation, which is an essential reference for understanding global development."
Strengthening Youth Ties
The camp concluded with an exchange session where SYSU and Khalifa University students discussed campus life and career aspirations, fostering friendships intended to last a lifetime. At the closing ceremony, Professor Qi Zhang, Deputy Secretary of the University Council, joined H.E. Mariam Alshamsi to award completion certificates to the participants.
Mohammed Alshehi, representing the student group, summarized the journey's impact: "We have gained immensely in such a short period. What started as a simple academic exchange has evolved into a journey of cultural exploration and profound friendship. Though we arrived as individuals from different majors, we now stand as a unified community."
Looking ahead, the successful program solidifies the bond between the two nations. As participant Noora Sarooj eloquently stated: "As engineering students, we now hold the 'blueprints' for building the future. We believe that young people are builders armed with science and the cornerstone of friendly exchanges between our countries. We look forward to becoming a force for deepening the cooperation between our two universities and nations."
