Tiangong Classroom Connects Hong Kong and Macau Students with Space Station Astronauts
SingTao · 1 SOURCES1 day ago6 MIN
Summary
The Tiangong Classroom • Hong Kong-Macau Special Session brought together students from both regions for an unprecedented live exchange with astronauts aboard China's Tiangong space station. Hong Kong payload specialist Li Jiaying (黎家盈) served as one of three space teachers, delivering an inspiring presentation alongside Shenzhou-23 commander Zhu Yangzhu and astronaut Zhang Zhiyuan at the main classroom set up at Li's alma mater. The Federation of Education Workers arranged for students at Wong Cho-pui School to watch the broadcast live, joining thousands of peers across Hong Kong and Macau in this landmark educational event. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu delivered opening remarks, calling on youth to learn from the astronauts' dedication and contribute to the nation's ambitions of becoming a space superpower.
Key Points
- Shenzhou-23 crew commander Zhu Yangzhu, astronaut Zhang Zhiyuan, and Hong Kong payload specialist Li Jiaying served as space teachers during the live session
- The main classroom was hosted at Tsuen Wan Public He Chuen Yat Memorial Secondary School, Li Jiaying's alma mater in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district
- Students from Federation of Education Workers' Wong Cho-pui School participated by watching the live broadcast, joining Hong Kong and Macau peers in real-time interaction
- Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu attended and encouraged young people to pursue aerospace careers, describing the event as part of Hong Kong's participation in national space ambitions
- The Federation of Education Workers operates the Hong Kong Space Science Popularization Education Base, offering immersive experiences and expert lectures on space topics
Why It Matters
The Tiangong Classroom demonstrates Beijing's commitment to engaging Hong Kong's youth directly in national achievements, fostering both scientific curiosity and national identity among students who grew up after the 1997 handover. As China accelerates its space program with plans for lunar missions and a permanent space station, such educational outreach positions Hong Kong's next generation to participate in—and potentially contribute to—the nation's cosmic ambitions .
The Tiangong Classroom demonstrates Beijing's commitment to engaging Hong Kong's youth directly in national achievements, fostering both scientific curiosity and national identity among students who grew up after the 1997 handover. As China accelerates its space program with plans for lunar missions and a permanent space station, such educational outreach positions Hong Kong's next generation to participate in—and potentially contribute to—the nation's cosmic ambitions .