Dr Isabella Ng from SSPS guides students on the right mindset

On 4 November 2024, Dr Isabella Ng Fung-sheung, Associate Professor in the Department of Social Sciences and Policy Studies and co-founder of the Hong Kong Society for Asylum-Seekers and Refugees, was invited by the Malaysia School of Arts and Social Sciences at Monash University to share her expertise on advocating for the rights of refugees and asylum-seekers with her students from EdUHK and interns with diverse backgrounds from around the world.

During the seminar titled “Internship Planning: The A to Z of a Successful Experience”, Dr Ng provided practical guidance on how students can apply classroom knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions during their internships. She emphasised that internships not only serve as professional training but also empower individuals and communities in need.

Dr Ng stated that internships can help students step out of the classroom to understand the real needs of people, as well as the requirements and expectations of the real-world. She highlighted that while students gain insights into how the real world operates, they should also be mindful that their choice of words and attitudes regardless of their status as interns can have uplifting or demoralising effects on those they work with and serve.

“Due to the severe consequences, it is essential to treat others with respect and acknowledge their inherent dignity. This means being sensitive to cultural differences, and recognising that individuals have their own values and perspectives shaped by history and culture. You should strive to make them feel welcome and valued, as well as affirm their achievements. Such a spirit of inclusion and support will help people reaslise their potential,” Dr Ng explained.

In addition to Dr Ng, Ms Piya Muqit, founder and current Executive Director of CivicSight, was invited to speak at the seminar. Dr Herbary Cheung, an alumnus of the former Department of Asian and Policy Studies (now The Department of Social Sciences and Policy Studies) and Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Gender Studies and Work Integrated Learning/Internship Coordinator at Monash University, moderated the discussions. In a collaborative dialogue with Dr Cheung, Dr Ng explored the potential for a transnational, research-based work-integrated learning project between EdUHK and Monash University. This iniNtiative aims to inspire students from both institutions to investigate social and policy issues, fostering active engagement and cross-cultural inquiry beyond the classroom.

Dr Cheung completed his PhD under the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) at EdUHK in 2022, supervised by Dr Isabella Ng. In 2024, he received the PVC’s Award for Excellence in Research (Early Career Researcher) at Monash University, along with the New Mandala’s Emerging Scholar Award. These accolades underscore the significance of his research in addressing complex societal issues, while advancing theoretical and methodological approaches in gendered migration studies and intersectionality in Southeast Asia.