Beijing Tong Ren Tang proudly launched its first-ever Hong Kong Student Ambassador Programme for Chinese Medicine and Health Care in April this year, garnering enthusiastic participation from schools across the city. Supported by an education brand of China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited ("CMHK") , Edubile, the programme has introduced an innovative Tong Ren Smart Green Chinese Herbal Medicine Cultivation Course within school campuses. Through a series of engaging activities, the initiative aims to spark students’ curiosity about Chinese medicine culture and modern technology. Beyond cultivating medicinal herbs and learning foundational theories of Chinese medicine and 5G IoT technology in the classroom, students recently stepped out to participate in workshops on intangible cultural heritage and explore 5G applications, embracing a cross-disciplinary, innovative learning model.

(Picture 1 - In late May, nearly 100 teachers and students from primary and secondary schools across various districts visited Beijing Tong Ren Tang’s Hong Kong Research and Development Production Plant and CMHK’s Hong Kong 5G Open Laboratory, Joint Innovation+, experiencing firsthand the artistry of TCM intangible cultural heritage and the innovations of future smart technology.)

Hands-On Experience with Intangible Cultural Heritage

At the end of May, nearly 100 teachers and students from primary and secondary schools, including Yan Chai Hospital Law Chan Chor Si Primary School, Yaumati Catholic Primary School, S.K.H. Tin Shui Wai Ling Oi Primary School, Shunde Fraternal Association Ong Yau Secondary School, and Caritas Ma On Shan Secondary School, visited Beijing Tong Ren Tang’s Research and Development Production Plant and Cultural Museum at Tai Po Industrial Estate, and CMHK’s Hong Kong 5G Open Laboratory, Joint Innovation+. Guided by intangible cultural heritage inheritors and their teams, students engaged in the intricate process of handcrafting traditional Chinese medicine pills, experiencing firsthand the precision and skill required at every step—from preparing herbal ingredients to shaping honey pills. This immersive activity offered a profound appreciation for the craftsmanship and enduring allure of traditional techniques.

Students shared their reflections:

“Visiting the Beijing Tong Ren Tang Cultural Museum and trying my hand at making herbal pills was an eye-opening experience. I initially thought pill-making would be simple, but it required far more strength and finesse than I expected. I’m grateful for the masters’ patient guidance in sharing these traditional techniques. The museum visit deepened my understanding of Chinese medicine’s rich history and culture. It’s remarkable that a brand like Beijing Tong Ren Tang, with such a storied legacy, holds two national-level intangible cultural heritage designations: Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Culture and the Craftsmanship of Angong Niuhuang Pills. This programme was a truly enriching journey into Chinese medicine.

The experience also provided practical insights that will guide my future career planning. I deeply admire Beijing Tong Ren Tang’s commitment to quality and rigorous standards, which strengthens my confidence in the continued evolution of Chinese medicine.”

(Picture 2 - Students, guided by intangible cultural heritage inheritors, learned the art of handcrafting Chinese medicine honey pills, immersing themselves in this time-honored craft.)

(Picture 3 - Seemingly simple, yet far from easy! Students discovered that crafting traditional Chinese medicine pills requires far greater precision and strength than imagined.)

Inspiring Innovation with 5G Technology, Shaping a Smart Future for Traditional Chinese Medicine

The programme also included a visit to CMHK’s Hong Kong 5G Open Laboratory, Joint Innovation+, where students explored cutting-edge applications such as smart health kiosks, smart construction sites, intelligent management systems, smart logistics, and drone operations. Through interactive demonstrations, they gained insights into how 5G technology is revolutionizing healthcare and logistics, prompting them to envision the future integration of technology with Chinese medicine.

(Picture 4 - Students envision the future of 5G – Interacting with smart technologies at CMHK’s Hong Kong 5G Open Laboratory, Joint Innovation+)

Harmonizing Tradition and Innovation, Ushering a New Chapter for Tradition Chinese Medicine

Beijing Tong Ren Tang exemplifies its mission, “Preserving Chinese Medicine, Innovating for the Future,” through this programme, enabling the younger generation to appreciate the historical significance and modern applications of Chinese medicine. Students noted that the initiative not only deepened their respect for traditional culture but also inspired them to consider how technology can advance the Chinese medicine industry. Over the coming months, participants will engage in community health talks, gaining practical experience to become true ambassadors of Chinese medicine health.

By bridging heritage and innovation, Beijing Tong Ren Tang is paving the way for a new chapter in Chinese medicine, empowering students to carry forward its legacy with creativity and vision.