The study tour in Belgium was an educational and cultural experience that allowed students to explore the rich history and architecture of the medieval cities of Flanders. Led by Prof Anatoly Oleksiyenko and Ms Charlie Yip, the tour focused on four thematic goals: Multimodal Mobilities, Cultural Heritage and Change, Cross-Cultural Dialogues, and Academic Rigor and Excellence. The students had abundant opportunities to delve into the stories of the Northern Renaissance and engage with scholarship, philosophical writings and peregrinating lifestyle of Desiderius Erasmus, a 16th century innovator in translation, publishing, and education. During the tour, students visited various historical sites, museums, galleries and landmarks, including the Erasmus House in Anderlecht, Groot Begijnhof, and the Old Masters Museum in Brussels.
The participants grew to appreciate how historical landmarks, living heritage, art, and scholarly and political thought can be preserved, enriching human habitats. Directly engaging with the fruits of centuries of human creativity, mobility, diversity, and ingenuity was a powerful means to gain a deeper understanding of linkages between the Northern Renaissance and contemporary culture.
Students' Sharing
Through this trip to Belgium, "In the footsteps of Erasmus", I visited several historical landmarks, cultural sites, and museums, and it has broadened my horizons to a great extent as I have never been to Europe before.
Erasmus believes that by pursuing knowledge and cultivating talents, a more enlightened and harmonious society could have resulted. During the guided tour and various discussions on our journey, I have learned much about his philosophy and his beliefs, in which the importance of reason, ethics, and education is emphasised.
The Groeningemuseum, Middelheim Museum, and the Old Masters Museum were all incredible experiences that allowed me to appreciate arts of different forms. I was especially impressed by how art was portrayed in a contemporary way at the Middelheim Museum, as I once believed that art was something that was untouchable and should belong indoors behind a frame or a barrier. However, through interacting with the outdoor art displays in the park, I was able to appreciate that sometimes art is something that is meant to live in the moment, worn down by time, just like the hundred-year-old statues and architecture out in the open.
Overall, this trip was a fantastic experience. I gained a better understanding of Belgian history and culture, learned the beliefs of a key historical figure, and had the chance to try new things.
While my time in Belgium was only but a few days, much of it was put to good use running from location to location. My tourmates and I went from city to city, just like Erasmus as he spread knowledge and new insights wherever he went. While we did not necessarily understand everything, we tried our best to be patient and slowly take in our surroundings. Throughout the study tour, the Belgians' love for history was apparent. The people there were a joy to interact with and exceptionally knowledgeable and patient with my tourmates and me. They gave us many glimpses of the environment they know best.
Acknowledgement
Source: Prof Anatoly Oleksiyenko, Ms Charlie Yip, EdUHK Students; Department of International Education (IE@EdUHK); for more information, please click Read More