"Academicians on Campus" : Professor Lee Chack Fan Ignites Students’ Journey toward Innovation at Scientia Secondary School

2025-11-18

In line with the national call in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan to support Hong Kong’s development as an international centre for innovation and technology, and to inspire young students to better understand China’s scientific achievements and cultivate an innovative spirit—the “Academicians on Campus” initiative, organised by The Greater Bay Area Association of Academicians, was held on the afternoon of October 27 at Scientia Secondary School.

（Professor Lee Chack Fan at Scientia Secondary School）

 

Under the theme “Igniting the Dream of Innovation Together,” the event featured a special guest, Professor Lee Chack Fan, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Director of the Jao Tsung-I Academy at the University of Hong Kong, who visited the school to engage students in an in-depth dialogue. Professor Lee shared his cross-cultural journey in scientific research and gave a vivid, detailed account of the monumental construction of the Three Gorges Dam. The event captivated approximately 800 students from Scientia Secondary School, offering them a powerful glimpse into China’s prowess in infrastructure and technological innovation, and lighting their passion for scientific exploration.

 

Drawing on his first-hand experience working on the Three Gorges Dam project, Professor Lee provided a comprehensive overview of the project’s inception, design philosophy, and construction process. He also highlighted the dam’s far-reaching impacts on flood control, power generation, and socio-economic development since its completion. Through a collection of rare historical photographs, he emphasised the collaborative spirit and commitment to lifelong learning that underpin major technological breakthroughs, while also guiding students to reflect on the ethical responsibilities of engineers and the vital role of technology in serving society.

(Students listening attentively and actively asking questions)

 

The lecture was vibrant and engaging, covering topics ranging from ecological conservation efforts behind the Three Gorges project to national regional cooperation strategies. It explored how large-scale hydraulic engineering can balance environmental protection with development, as well as how technological innovation fosters cross-regional collaboration. Professor Lee offered thoughtful, experience-based answers to each question from the students, encouraging the young students to adopt a broad perspective on the interplay between science and society—and to boldly pursue their own paths of innovation.

 

About the GBAAA "Academicians on Campus" Initiative

As a key platform for nurturing innovation and technology talent in the Great Bay Area, the GBAAA "Academicians on Campus" initiative regularly invites academicians from both the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering to visit schools. Through lectures and face-to-face exchanges, these distinguished scientists disseminate scientific knowledge and inspire young minds with the spirit of scientific inquiry. The program not only allows students to experience the excellence of top scientists up close but also deepens their understanding of the nation's achievements in areas such as the energy revolution and automotive innovation. It helps broaden their perspectives on cutting-edge technology, fosters confidence in innovation, and cultivates a new generation of talent to support the development of the Greater Bay Area as an international centre for innovation and technology.