A delegation from City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) embarked on an important visit to Nansha, Guangzhou, on 4 November. During this visit, the delegation engaged with local government officials, culminating in the signing of a pivotal cooperation agreement. This agreement lays the groundwork for a joint research laboratory and establishes an internship and entrepreneurship base in Nansha, representing a significant step towards enhanced collaboration between Hong Kong and Nansha in the domain of veterinary medicine, as well as fostering academic and research exchanges between the two regions.
Dr. the Hon Leung Chun-ying, who serves as the Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and is an advisor on the Consultative Committee regarding Guangdong-Hong Kong Cooperation (particularly in Guangzhou Nansha), has ardently advocated for the advancement of CityUHK’s Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences (JCC). He was present to accompany the CityUHK delegation at the momentous signing ceremony of the “Framework Agreement between City University of Hong Kong, the Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Nansha District.”
The landmark agreement was signed by Professor Vanessa Barrs, the Dean of the JCC; Mr. Sun Mingfei, the Director of the Animal Health Institute at the Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (GDAAS); and Mr. Zhong Huibiao, Director General of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Nansha District. The signing ceremony was an influential event witnessed by various dignitaries, including Dr. Leung; Mr. Wu Shourong, Vice Secretary-General of the Guangdong Provincial Committee of the CPPCC; Mr. Liu Wei, Secretary of the Party Working Committee of the Nansha Development Zone; Mr. Deng Yiqun, Secretary of the Party Committee of the GDAAS; Mr. Lester Garson Huang, Council Chairman of CityUHK; and Professor Freddy Boey, President of CityUHK.
The core objective of the agreement is to foster collaboration and exchange in veterinary medicine, thereby contributing significantly to the growth and integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
A profound moment during the visit was the plaque unveiling ceremony for the Joint Research Laboratory (Guangzhou Nansha), collaboratively established between the JCC and the GDAAS Animal Health Institute. This innovative joint research laboratory will enhance CityUHK’s veterinary medicine program by providing opportunities for students to undertake internships within Nansha District. These internships will not only equip the students with invaluable experience but will also contribute positively to improving animal health, food safety, and public health in the region. Moreover, both the GDAAS Animal Health Institute and Guangzhou Nansha Yangxiang Fengxing Food Co., Ltd. will facilitate further internship and entrepreneurship opportunities for CityUHK veterinary students.
President Boey emphasized that the recent formal opening of CityUHK (Dongguan) in September marks a major milestone for CityUHK’s strategic development in the GBA, significantly accelerating the promotion of sustainable and high-quality development in this area. He highlighted the commitment of both CityUHK and CityUHK (Dongguan) to foster an educational environment characterized by inspiration, interactivity, and innovation.
“CityUHK has embarked on a remarkable journey of partnerships with Nansha District Government, and we are now taking another significant step toward strengthening academic and research collaboration in the GBA,” said President Boey. “I am eager to explore the immense potential of our collaboration, which will facilitate knowledge sharing, nurture talent for the Greater Bay Area, and ultimately benefit the broader community.”
Professor Barrs added, “Through this vital partnership, CityUHK’s veterinary students will acquire invaluable experience in advanced swine management practices, food safety protocols, and research collaborations. Nansha is home to cutting-edge agriculture and animal production industries, which play a crucial role for Hong Kong. Our partnership will work collectively to enhance veterinary standards and further advance the One Health initiative.”
Ms. Liu Xiaotong, the Deputy Head of the Nansha District Government, remarked, “CityUHK is a prestigious hub for teaching and research innovation. Since the commencement of the 13th Five-Year Plan, the GDAAS has achieved remarkable outcomes in scientific advancements, variety certification, and patents, establishing a robust agricultural technology service network throughout the province. This collaboration will significantly promote technical exchanges and talent cooperation, facilitating the integration of Hong Kong youth into the vibrant Greater Bay Area.”
**Interview with Dr. Vanessa Barrs, Dean of the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Barrs. Can you tell us about the recent delegation from CityUHK and its significance for both the university and the communities involved?
**Dr. Barrs:** Thank you for having me. The delegation’s visit to Nansha, Guangzhou, on November 4th was indeed significant. We engaged with key local government officials and formalized a cooperation agreement that will pave the way for a joint research laboratory focusing on veterinary medicine. This initiative underlines our commitment to not only advancing our academic offerings but also fostering practical experiences for our students through internships and entrepreneurship opportunities in Nansha.
**Editor:** That sounds promising! Can you give us more details about the agreement and its core objectives?
**Dr. Barrs:** Absolutely. The “Framework Agreement” we signed involves collaboration between CityUHK, the Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Nansha District. One of our main objectives is to enhance research and education in veterinary medicine, which is essential for the development of the Greater Bay Area. By integrating our resources and expertise, we hope to improve animal health, food safety, and public health in the region.
**Editor:** You mentioned a joint research laboratory. How will this facility benefit your students and the community at large?
**Dr. Barrs:** The Joint Research Laboratory in Nansha will provide a unique opportunity for our students to gain hands-on experience through structured internships. This practical exposure is invaluable in today’s educational landscape, especially in fields like veterinary medicine. Moreover, the lab will focus on addressing pressing issues in animal health and related public health concerns, thereby contributing not just to our academic pursuits but also positively impacting the local community.
**Editor:** Dr. Leung Chun-ying played a pivotal role during the signing ceremony. How does his involvement shape this initiative?
**Dr. Barrs:** Dr. Leung’s support is crucial given his influence and commitment to the development of collaboration between Hong Kong and the mainland, particularly in areas like veterinary medicine. His presence at our signing ceremony underscored the importance of this partnership and the broader goal of enhancing the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s capabilities in various sectors, including education and health.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of this collaboration?
**Dr. Barrs:** I hope this collaboration not only strengthens our academic program at CityUHK but also leads to enhanced research outputs that can benefit both Hong Kong and Guangzhou. It is essential for us to work hand-in-hand in tackling challenges in veterinary medicine and public health, thereby creating a healthier environment for all. This agreement represents the beginning of a fruitful partnership, and I am excited to see the positive impacts it will generate.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Barrs, for sharing these insights. It sounds like a pivotal moment for CityUHK and the community in Nansha.
**Dr. Barrs:** Thank you for having me. We’re looking forward to the exciting developments ahead!
