Study Tours

2023 CNSST Foundation Study Tour

In 2023, CNSST Foundation successfully partnered with Hong Kong Shue Yan University to host the New Zealand Study Tour Week! Organized by CNSST Foundation, this event highlights the foundation’s status as a highly reputable charitable organization recognized by the New Zealand government. CNSST Foundation collaborates with Auckland City Council on Asian community projects and is one of the largest professional service organizations serving the Asian community in New Zealand. Our mission is to provide students with enriching study tour experiences, helping them broaden their horizons and enhance their knowledge.

First Post-Pandemic Study Tour: Social Work Students from Hong Kong Shue Yan University

On August 11, 2023, CNSST welcomed 17 students and teachers from the Social Work program at Hong Kong Shue Yan University. They participated in a week-long study tour and field research activities. This tour not only expanded their knowledge but also gave them deeper insights into the services offered by local community organizations in New Zealand, as well as the principles and management approaches behind New Zealand’s community service sector.

Lecture on the Development of Social Work and Community Services in New Zealand

2. Daily Operations of Community Organizations

Visits to Mainstream, Māori, and Pacific Islander Community Organizations

3. Visit to North Shore Hospital

Lecture at the Asian Health Services Centre

Student Testimonials:

Group 1 Reflection: the workshops provided by the CNSST Foundation gave us a valuable chance to have a deeper understanding of the social welfare system, the role of social workers, services diversity, and Māori culture in New Zealand. We also get a deeper understanding of how the high level of cultural inclusiveness can help in practicing different social services.

Group 2 Reflection:

We are aware of the importance of continuous learning within the field throughout the workshop as we know that social workers in NZ must fulfil the assessment requirements every 3 years, which is stricter than that in Hong Kong. We think that a social worker has to engage in ongoing learning and stay updated with society so as to meet the client’s needs and improve the well-being of the individuals and community.

Letter of Appreciation:

CNSST Foundation Study Tour Objectives:

1. Learning and Broadening Horizons
   The students and faculty from the Social Work program at Hong Kong Shue Yan University explored local community organizations in New Zealand, gaining a deeper understanding of the service principles and management approaches of mainstream, Māori, Pacific Islander, and other minority communities. Through interactions with New Zealand’s local organizations, students were able to grasp the challenges and opportunities within social work practice. This tour not only enhanced their knowledge but also broadened their horizons and helped them develop essential skills.

2. Gains in Cross-Cultural Exchange
   The study tour provided an invaluable opportunity for students and faculty to engage with community workers from diverse ethnic backgrounds, exchanging insights on the practical challenges and opportunities in their work. Throughout this experience, they gained a deep appreciation for the varied cultural backgrounds and values in social work. It emphasized the importance of cross-cultural sensitivity for effectively serving diverse communities in a global society.

3. Strengthening Social Responsibility
   By expanding their perspectives and learning about the social issues and challenges faced by another country, the students were inspired to reflect on social justice and societal transformation. This global outlook encouraged them to take on greater social responsibility and motivated them to make a positive impact in their own communities.

CNSST Foundation provided the students and faculty of Hong Kong Shue Yan University with a comprehensive study tour experience, allowing them to learn while enjoying New Zealand’s natural beauty and unique culture. This meaningful New Zealand study tour was a journey that opened a new chapter in the lives of the students.