CSE Students Explore the Future of Tech: Shenzhen and Guangzhou Study Trip 2026

In January 2026, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) organized an immersive 3-day, 2-night study trip to Shenzhen and Guangzhou, offering undergraduate students a front-row seat to Mainland China's rapid technological evolution. Moving beyond traditional commercial tours, this itinerary focused exclusively on high-tech innovation and academic synergy within the Greater Bay Area.

A major highlight was the landmark visit to the HKUST(GZ) campus, where this cohort became the first batch of CSE students from Clear Water Bay to explore the new site. The visit focused on academic and social integration, featuring a mingling session for students from both campuses to exchange research insights and campus experiences. The group toured core facilities, including the high-spec data center, the advanced robotics lab—where they observed cutting-edge autonomous systems—and the state-of-the-art sports complex, providing a firsthand look at the holistic environment of the Guangzhou community.

The journey also featured deep dives into the operations of leading IT and autonomous driving firms:

Baidu Apollo Go: Students experienced the future of mobility firsthand with a ride on a Robotaxi, gaining a practical understanding of how autonomous driving algorithms operate in complex urban environments.
DJI (Da-Jiang Innovations): The visit showcased the sophisticated computer vision and autonomous flight technology required for modern robotics and imaging.
Tencent Headquarters: Students explored the large-scale cloud infrastructure and AI ecosystems that power one of the world's largest digital platforms.

Participants described the experience as highly valuable and eye-opening. Many noted that witnessing the ubiquity of advanced IT technology—from autonomous logistics to the pace of innovation in research labs—provided a fresh perspective on their field of study. Students returned with a deepened appreciation for the technological advancements in Mainland China and a clearer vision of the professional opportunities awaiting them in the region. The Department remains committed to providing such experiential learning opportunities, ensuring our students stay at the forefront of the global tech landscape.