Four final-year students from the BBA-Professional Accountancy (BBA-PA) programme recently participated in the study tour titled “The 15th Five-Year Plan for the National Economic and Social Development: Xinjiang-Kazakhstan the Silk Roads Tour.” Organised by Belt and Road Pioneer, the tour was led by Professor Phyllis Mo, Head of the Department of Accountancy, alongside Ms Joey Lee, Associate Head of Department of Accountancy. This immersive learning journey offered students a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the country’s strategic development under the 15th Five-Year Plan, with a special focus on cross-border trade, sustainability, and technological innovation.
The itinerary included a visit to Korgas, a key border city between China and Kazakhstan, where students observed the operations of the cross-border visa-free special economic zone designed to facilitate trade and shopping. They also gained a deeper understanding of the Europe-China rail link, which highlights the dynamic growth in cross-border commerce and regional connectivity. Miss Sammi Hui Sze Man shared, “The greatest gain from this trip was experiencing the grand blueprint of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, gaining on-site understanding of the strategic operations at the border zone, and witnessing the rapid development of Xinjiang. What impressed me most was seeing the red and blue border line between China and Kazakhstan at the Khorgos port, just a line apart, yet two completely different countries.”
A significant highlight of the trip was witnessing the region’s transition toward sustainable development. Students observed how traditional fossil fuel industries, such as crude oil mining, are gradually shifting to green energy solutions, including wind and solar power. They also learned about cutting-edge innovations in manufacturing, such as environmental-friendly garment production using water-saving and even water-free dyeing technologies, demonstrating how innovative industrial processes can evolve to reduce environmental impact. Miss Bella Chen Yunjing reflected, “This journey allowed me to see a different side of Xinjiang, where various developments are thriving and enterprises are flourishing. During our visits to different companies, I deeply appreciated their spirit of staying true to their original mission, endlessly innovating, continuously pushing boundaries, and striving for excellence.”
The group further explored smart agricultural practices at a salmon (rainbow trout) fish farm located in the Yili River Valley of the Tianshan Mountains. Fed by glacial meltwater that maintains ideal temperatures, the fish farm utilises smart technologies to automate feeding and monitor water quality, ensuring premium product standards. Thanks to advancements in transportation and flash-freezing technology, these fresh salmon products can reach consumers across China within 24 hours. Miss Celia Ng Sze Wai remarked, “What moved me most was the companies’ sustainable circular model, fish waste from aquaculture is purified and recycled as fertilizer, while leftover fish heads and bones are used as feed for ostriches and cats, achieving zero waste throughout the entire production chain. At the same time, the facility integrates photovoltaic and wind power green energy with AI smart monitoring, promoting specialized fisheries through low-carbon technology, perfectly demonstrating the practice of green agriculture.”
Reflecting on the tour, the students expressed deep appreciation for this rare and valuable learning experience, which complemented their academic studies with practical exposure to rural revitalization and sustainable industry development.
The Department of Accountancy extends sincere gratitude to Belt and Road Pioneer for organising this meaningful study tour, which exemplifies the Department’s commitment to providing experience-based learning that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable leadership in a rapidly evolving economy.
The group arrived at Ürümqi Tianshan International Airport, Xinjiang, including Professor Phyllis Mo (fourth from right), Ms Joey Lee (fourth from left), Miss Bella Chen Yunjing (third from right), Miss Sammi Hui Sze Man (second from left), Miss Celia Ng Sze Wai (third from left), and Mr Kelvin Zhu Junxing (first from right).
Demonstration of water-proof garment technology
Processing of salmon
Green energy solution wind power
Group photo at Tianchi
Group photo at Grand Bazaar
Group photo of Belt and Road Pioneer at borderline between China and Kazakhstan