Sharing from PGDE Placement Student in 2024

In October 2024, two students from the Faculty of Education at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) participated as interns in the public education department of World Vision Hong Kong. Not only did they have the opportunity to understand issues in development and poverty alleviation, but they were able to apply what they learned by engaging with secondary school students through participating in sharing sessions and leading experiential workshops. Here are what they told us about their internship experience with us.

Ella Tsui (HKU)

As I approach the end of my experiential learning programme at World Vision Hong Kong, I reflect on the transformative journey I embarked upon. This experience has deepened my understanding of global issues and reshaped my identity as a future educator.

When I first started at World Vision, I felt both excited and apprehensive. Engaging with themes of global citizenship and social justice illuminated the harsh realities faced by vulnerable communities. Each session throughout the internship highlighted the interconnectedness of our actions and their global consequences.

Working alongside passionate individuals during the programme inspired me to re-evaluate my teaching philosophy. I realised that effective education is about nurturing empathy and preparing students to be informed global citizens. This experience ignited a desire in me to instill these values in my future classroom.

The programme also challenged me to confront my assumptions about education, emphasising the importance of integrating real-world issues into the curriculum. I aim to create a dynamic learning environment where students feel empowered to discuss and act on global matters.

As I reflect, I feel grateful for the insights I've gained and motivation to apply what I learned in my teaching. I'm excited to inspire my future students to become engaged, aware citizens.

In conclusion, my time at World Vision has been invaluable, equipping me with the tools to address social issues and reaffirming my commitment to fostering empathy and global awareness in my classroom. I look forward to making meaningful impacts on my students.

Yvonne Tang (HKU)

During my internship at World Vision Hong Kong, I gained valuable experiences. My greatest satisfaction came from designing and organising various activities that helped youth in Hong Kong better understand the concept of global citizenship. For example, I co-hosted a "sweatshop" workshop with a fellow intern, allowing students to experience the hardships faced by underprivileged youth and children. This activity highlighted the powerful impact of experiential education. In addition, I collaborated with World Vision's staff in organising a joint school famine ambassador camp for secondary school students, which not only strengthened the students' leadership skills but also taught me how to plan and execute events with limited resources.

Of course, there were challenges during the internship, particularly in effectively coordinating and managing every detail of the events with constrained resources. However, these experiences helped improve my adaptability in different situations and enhanced my time management skills.

Overall, this internship provided me with practical knowledge beyond the classroom, and it increasing my confidence in working within the education field.