Humanities Research Symposium for Youth (HRSY) 2025 (4-9 July 2025)

The Humanities Research Symposium for Youth, or HRSY, is an annual symposium where students present humanities research papers on the theme of the year. From July 4 to 9, 2025, Diocesan Girls’ School (DGS) proudly hosted HRSY in Hong Kong under the theme “Love and War”. This vibrant 6-day event brought together 65 delegates from Bugil Academy (South Korea), Hwachong Institution (Singapore), Citipointe Christian College (Australia), and DGS. Guided by a dedicated 12-member student organising committee, the symposium fostered academic exchange, cultural connection, and unforgettable memories. Our school was also represented by a delegation of 20 students who showcased their research papers during the conference. 

A Warm Welcome

The symposium kicked off with icebreaker games, where delegates bonded through activities like human bingo and charades. The Opening Ceremony showcased DGS’s Rope Skipping Team, Dance Team, and Chinese Orchestra, captivating attendees. Our Headmistress Mrs. Lau delivered an inspiring speech, followed by a blessing from Reverend Wong. Each visiting school received a scroll inscribed with DGS’s school motto in Chinese calligraphy, and teacher representatives joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Special thanks must be given to all performers, Ms. P. Cheung and the AV team.

Academic and Experiential Learning

A total of 16 research papers were presented, covering topics from celebrity culture to military propaganda to political history. Delegates participated enthusiastically in Q&A sessions, stimulating an exchange of ideas. 

The 2 keynote speakers Ms. Cassandra Wu and Mr. Aimé Girimana sparked meaningful dialogue about the problems refugees face in Hong Kong, actively engaging with the theme “Love and War”. 

On the second day, delegates participated in Crossroads Foundation’s Struggle for Survival X-perience. Led by co-founder Mr. David Begbie, delegates immersed in a simulation of extreme poverty. Through crafting and selling paper bags to afford necessities like rent and food, participants gained profound insights into socioeconomic challenges.

In the evening, delegates showcased their artistic talents through a Chinese ink painting workshop and a handheld fan-making workshop. Delegates bonded over their creative ideas while trying out these traditional crafts. 

On the third day, a dynamic policy debate saw groups speaking on controversial topics while navigating banned words and fielding audience questions. Judged on content and collaboration, the debates sparked lively discussions that continued for days. A cultural quiz capped the evening, with delegates sharing insights about their home countries, broadening perspectives. On the last day, a “Love and War- themed humanities forum was also hosted as a last chance for groups to earn points. 

Teamwork and Adventure

On the first day, delegates were separated into zodiac groups inspired by a reimagined version of the Chinese traditional zodiac race story. In the evening, a lively karaoke session set a joyful tone for delegates who were just beginning to know each other. Through winning games and completing missions with their newfound friends, groups worked tirelessly to climb up the live scoreboard in the next few days.

On the third day, a morning relay race energized delegates. Delegates showcased exceptional sportsmanship by cheering on other groups. While some attended church, others enjoyed additional games to win pineapple buns. 

On the fourth day, a River Crossing game challenged delegates to strategize and cooperate. The afternoon’s zodiac race took delegates across Hong Kong, visiting landmarks like the TST Clock Tower, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and Tai Kwun via bus, Star Ferry, and MTR. Evening exploration of Temple Street offered a taste of local culture.

On the fifth day, delegates ventured to Cheung Chau, completing missions and capturing sunset photos on the ferry back. The day ended with the Symphony of Lights at Central Pier, a dazzling spectacle. Thanks must be given to the teachers who accompanied us to all the excursions despite the sunny weather.

Hong Kong Delicacies

Lunch and dinner featured Hong Kong-style stir-fries, rice, vegetables, and refreshing iced lemonade. The cozy outdoor dining area at Skipton Place, adorned with fairy lights, created a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by board games for post-meal bonding.

Between game sessions, local snacks like siumai and curry fishballs were served. Delegates also got a chance to craft their own egg tarts and maltose crackers under the guidance of Ms. P Ho and the Food Technology Club.

Celebration and Farewell

The Closing Ceremony honoured all delegates with certificates and awarded prizes, like milk tea cups, to winning groups. Hwachong Institution received the symbolic boomerang as the next host. Performances by all four schools—Bugil’s Talchum and K-pop, DGS’s drama and rap, Hwachong’s singing, and Citipointe’s live Kahoot—ignited the stage.

The symposium concluded with a formal dinner at Kowloon Cricket Club, where delegates, dressed elegantly, reflected on newfound friendships and knowledge. Though brief, the week left an indelible mark on all.

Gratitude

At this juncture, we would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the nine teachers from the visiting schools for their support; and to all involved DGS teachers, led by Ms Lai and Mr Bugaj, for their year-long guidance. Thanks must also be given to Mrs. Lau for championing experiential learning opportunities like these marked by academic rigour, cultural exchange, and lasting bonds. The Organising Committee and delegates will forever cherish this transformative experience.