HKUBS x ACCA Greater Bay Area Study Tour 2024-25 Concludes with Enriching Experiences and Industry Insights
We are happy to have successfully concluded the HKUBS x ACCA Greater Bay Area Study Tour 2024-25, a unique programme designed to provide students with deep insights into the dynamic economic landscape of China’s Greater Bay Area (GBA). In collaboration with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), this programme offered participants invaluable opportunities with a unique blend of professional exposure and networking opportunities in a series of activities in April and May 2025.
The study tour brought together 28 outstanding students from HKU Business School for a two-day immersive experience in the GBA on April 18 – 19, 2025. During the tour, participants engaged in a variety of enriching activities, including a visit to the Guangzhou Institute of Certified Public Accountants, a business workshop at Starbucks led by an ACCA member, and a session at the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone. Students also had the opportunity to interact with ACCA members from leading companies such as Walmart and Tencent, gaining valuable perspectives on the GBA’s economic landscape and its implications for career development in accounting and beyond. These interactions not only broadened participants understanding of business opportunities in GBA, but also fostered meaningful connections that will serve as a stepping stone for their future careers as accounting professionals.
Following the tour, a Mini Case Competition was held on April 25, 2025 where students showcased their strategic thinking and teamwork. Teams presented innovative proposals for assigned companies—Starbucks, Walmart, and Tencent—reflecting the insights and knowledge gained during the study tour. The competition was judged by an esteemed panel, including Prof. Winnie Leung, Assistant Dean (Undergraduate) of HKUBS, alongside ACCA representatives: Mr. Stanley Ho, Chairman of ACCA Hong Kong; Mr. Brian Li, Committee Member of ACCA Hong Kong; and Ms. Helen Liu, Head of Member Engagement & Education Relationships Lead. The judges provided constructive feedback, highlighting the competition as an opportunity for students to grow and prepare for future career endeavours.
The winning teams from the Mini Case Competition gained valuable industry exposure through exclusive company visits and networking sessions with industry leaders hosted by ACCA Hong Kong Committee Members. On May 21, 2025, they visited KPMG’s new office in Wong Chuk Hang, exploring the workspace and learning about KPMG’s agile work environment and remote work practices. Another visit to an international bank was hosted on May 29, 2025 where students were engaged in discussion with banking professionals from the Corporate and Institutional Banking, Chief Commercial Office team, and a networking lunch with the GBA Head of Business Development. These visits offered practical insights into the professional world, GBA’s business landscape and career opportunities in accounting and finance.
Reflecting on the programme, the HKUBS x ACCA Greater Bay Area Study Tour 2024-25 has been a resounding success, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to thrive in their future careers. The programme underscored the importance of experiential learning and cross-regional collaboration, aligning with HKUBS’s commitment to fostering innovative and globally-minded leaders.
The Faculty extends its heartfelt gratitude to ACCA Hong Kong for their unwavering support throughout this programme. Special thanks go to Mr. Stanley Ho, Mr. Brian Li, and Ms. Helen Liu for their invaluable contributions, as well as to all the ACCA members who engaged with our students, providing mentorship and inspiration.
As we celebrate the conclusion of this enriching journey, the Faculty looks forward to continuing its partnership with ACCA to create more opportunities for students to explore the GBA and beyond, inspiring the next generation of leaders in business and accounting.
For more updates about ACCA Hong Kong, please visit ACCA Hong Kong – LinkedIn.
