IBM EXITE Camp 2008

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) joined hands with IBM China/Hong Kong Limited to host the IBM EX.I.T.E. Camp from July 28 to August 1, 2008. Thirty-six girls aged 11-13 from four distinguished secondary schools in Hong Kong - Belilios Public School, Maryknoll Convent School, St Paul's Convent School and, St. Stephen's Girls' College - participated in the five-day program.

EX.I.T.E. Camp was established nine years ago to fuel young girls' interests in taking science and mathematics classes throughout high school and understanding of how rewarding engineering and technology careers can be. During the five day camp, the girls participated in a series of hands-on workshops, games and lectures designed to increase their interest in science and technology and open the door to a wider range of career options.

During the camp, participants worked in teams and learned how science and technology can improve daily life through fun and enlightening activities arranged by different science and engineering departments at HKUST. CSE hosted the Wii 3D Interactive Lab session which enables the girls to create their own "3D glasses" simulating the technology built into the Nintendo Wii remote. The girls also attended lectures by IBM and HKUST experts on IT-related subjects and career opportunities in the technology fields.

Prof Roland Chin, Vice-President for Academic Affairs of HKUST, said to the participants at the opening, "It is particularly meaningful that you are all school girls, because at present the male-female student ratio on our School of Engineering is out-of-balance, with about 80% of the students being male. We hope that more female students with good potentials will join our various engineering programs and realize their full potentials. I hope that these few days of activities will arouse your interest in technology and engineering, and that when you select your favorite university and subjects, you will seriously consider HKUST's engineering and technology courses."

"As technology becomes the foundation for business innovation, the demand for people with outstanding skills in math and science disciplines is increasing," said Dominic Tong, General Manager, IBM China/Hong Kong Limited. "However, there is a widespread misconception that male students do better when it comes to science and technology. We believe that today's girls are brimming with talent, creativity and imagination. The IBM EX.I.T.E. Camp gives them the opportunity to gain experience in the practical applications of science and technology and shows them that they can use math, science and technology to become innovators in the technology industries."

Prof. Roland Chin Welcoming the Girls

Wii 3D Interactive Lab Session

Wii 3D Interactive Lab Session

Students Enjoying Hands-on Activities

Students Enjoying Hands-on Activities

Students Enjoying Hands-on Activities