Since its launch, the program has been the focus of enthusiastic participation by students attending universities and tertiary institutions in Hong Kong and Beijing.

For the second edition, 16 outstanding students have been chosen to join a two-month immersive learning program.

In addition to visiting the Hong Kong Palace Museum, the students also attended talks hosted by sector experts,joined a design mindset and innovative workshop, visited other art and cultural landmarks, such as Taikoo Li Sanlitun and ArtDist in Beijing, as well as Blue House in Hong Kong.

They also had four-week internships at some of Hong Kong's leading cultural and art institutions, including the Hong Kong Palace Museum, M+, the West Kowloon Cultural District Performing Arts Division, and four museums managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.

Lou Cheuk Hang, who studies Chinese History and Art History at the University of Hong Kong interned at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

He says that it was quite difficult to get a museum internship in Hong Kong,but thanks to the program, he was able to do so.

"During the last week of our internship, we designed a relatively complete plan for the workshop, which gave me a real sense of achievement," he says."This experience opened my eyes and has shown me the different possibilities in the museum sector."

During the trip to the Palace Museum,the students visited the Department of Conservation Science to learn about the use of technology in artifact conservation, and also watched a VR video and visited some of the museum's other galleries and attractions.

"The Palace Museum has long recognized the significance of cultural exchange and integration between Beijing and Hong Kong," says Lou Wei,deputy director of the Palace Museum.

"We are glad to have partnered with the Hong Kong Palace Museum, to cultivate the next generation of visionary young cultural leaders, foster cultural creativity in both cities, and showcase the excellence of traditional Chinese culture to the world."

He adds that the endeavor will help China's 5,000-year civilization to continue to thrive through ongoing exchange and learning.

Contact the writer at liyingxue@chinadaily.com.cn