From 4 to 10 July 2025, Professor Phyllis Mo, Dr. Pauline Wong, and Mr. Ricky Lam from our Department participated in the “Belt and Road Pioneer” study tour beginning in Bangkok, Thailand, continuing to Vientiane, Laos. The tour aimed to enhance academic and cultural exchanges while exploring regional development initiatives. It provided critical insights into Laos’ higher education system, professional services, and government policies, with a focus on social responsibility.
Initial Insights from Bangkok
The tour commenced on 4 July with a one-day visit to Bangkok. The delegation visited the Lalamove Bangkok Office, where they met Ben Lin, Managing Director of Lalamove Thailand. They gained insights into the company’s innovative logistics solutions and its commitment to empowering local communities and SMEs. They also met with representatives Deputy Director Mr. Jason Chow and Head of Public Relations Ms. Helen Wong from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO), discussing Hong Kong’s role as a global business hub and its initiatives to foster closer cooperation with Thailand and ASEAN countries.
The delegation at Lalamove Bangkok Office
The delegation met with Mr. Jason Chow, Deputy Director and Ms. Helen Wong, Head of Public Relations of HKETO in Bangkok
Higher Education and Capacity Building
In Vientiane, the delegation visited the National University of Laos (老撾國立大學)and the Confucius Institute (孔子學院), emphasising the importance of educational exchanges in fostering mutual understanding and addressing the socio-economic needs of the country. They also visited Vientiane High School (萬象中學) to observe secondary education in Laos. Renowned for its strong academic tradition, the school has produced graduates who have become government officials and leaders in various sectors. Professor Mo introduced HSUHK’s programmes, aiming to attract students to pursue their studies at our University. Discussions with the Ministry of Education and Sports highlighted recent milestones in educational cooperation with Hong Kong, including scholarships for over 500 Lao students. This commitment to educational equity is crucial for human resource development in Laos.
The delegation with the Directors of the National University of Laos and Mr. Sayakana Sisouvong, Former Ambassador to the U.K., Ireland and Iceland
Delegation members engaging in a meaningful exchange with students from Vientiane High School
Professor Mo and Dr. Wong with Mr. Thongphan Oulaithong, Principal of Vientiane High School
The delegation visited the Ministry of Education and Sports
Professional Services and Economic Growth
At EY Laos, the delegation explored the role of professional services in enhancing corporate governance and financial transparency. The firm’s initiatives in capacity building reflect a shared commitment to developing local expertise, which is vital for supporting Laos’ growing economy. The visit to the Bank of China’s Vientiane branch further underscored the importance of financial services in facilitating trade and investment, while also showcasing the bank’s commitment to social responsibility through community support during natural disasters.
Professor Mo and Dr. Wong with Mr. Van le, Partner of EY Laos
Government Policy and International Cooperation
Meetings with government institutions such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Laos Office (聯合國開發計劃署)and the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (老撾新聞文化旅遊部)revealed ongoing efforts in sustainable development, cultural heritage preservation, and tourism promotion. These discussions highlighted the importance of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing Laos’ integration into the regional economy.
Engaging discussions at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Laos Office
The delegation visited the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism
Professor Mo and Dr. Wong with Mr. Saipasong Vongsak, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism
Social Responsibility Initiatives
The delegation’s donation of school supplies to Dong Sang Hin Primary School exemplified grassroots initiatives aimed at supporting educational equity. Additionally, the Bank of China’s active participation in flood relief efforts showcased its commitment to social responsibility, emphasising the importance of community resilience.
The delegation donated school supplies at Dong Sang Hin Primary School
Professor Mo and the Principal of Dong Sang Hin Primary School
Team spirit and collaboration shine bright at the Bank of China
Professor Mo and Dr. Wong met with Ms. Li Shuping (李淑平), General Manager and Country Head of the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Vientiane Branch (中國銀行萬象分行)
Conclusion
The study tour culminated in a journey aboard the China-Laos Railway, symbolising enhanced regional connectivity and cooperation. Overall, the tour provided valuable insights into Laos’ higher education, professional services, and government policies, reinforcing the significance of cross-border partnerships in promoting sustainable development and cultural exchange in the region.
The delegation gathered at Vientiane Station of the China-Laos High-Speed Railway, ready to embark on a journey from Vientiane to Xishuangbanna in Yunnan
The delegation with Mr. Song, a construction expert, and Mr. Deng, an operations expert from China-Laos Railway, who accompanied the group
