A delegation from the Nansha District Government visited City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) on 9 May and met with the management team of the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences (JCC). The meeting fostered fruitful discussions on collaborative opportunities in scientific research and educational initiatives, aimed at strengthening cooperation between Guangdong and Hong Kong in the veterinary medicine field.

Led by Mr C Y Leung, Vice-Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and Former Chief Executive of the HKSAR, the delegation included Mr Xie Wei, Deputy Secretary of the Party Working Committee of Nansha Development Zone; Ms Liu Xiaotong, Deputy Head of Nansha District Government; Ms Zheng Huirong, Director General of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of Nansha Development Zone; and Mr Zhong Huibiao, Director General of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Nansha District.

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Professor Vanessa Barrs, Dean of the JCC, accompanied by key members of the JCC leadership team and Dr Chris Riggs, Director of the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) Equine Welfare Research Foundation and Chief Advisor for Mainland Veterinary Engagement, showcasing the University's strong partnership with the HKJC. 

The discussions delved into enhancing collaborative research endeavours to combat emerging infectious diseases through the proposed establishment of a joint veterinary laboratory dedicated to studying zoonotic and epidemic diseases impacting both humans and animals. Another highlight was the opportunity for CityUHK Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) students to undertake clinical placements in Nansha.

Nansha is renowned for its advanced agricultural and animal production industry, particularly in smart farming and sustainable food production. One notable example is the Nansha Yangxiang Integrated Industrial Chain Piggery, an innovative project equipped with state-of-the-art AI-controlled facilities. Through further partnership, CityUHK veterinary students can understand top-tier national standards in swine management, food safety and production animal health.

The delegation also had the opportunity to tour the JCC's Clinical Skills Laboratory and the CityUHK Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. These advanced facilities serve as integral components of the academic and research activities of the JCC, offering a comprehensive platform for hands-on learning and research in modern veterinary practices and diagnostics.