Publisher: School of Economics  

Date: September 26, 2024

This summer, a dedicated group of students from Jinan University embarked on a journey to Boluo County, Huizhou City, seamlessly blending classroom learning with practical rural engagement. The Jinan University Boluo County Manufacturing High Quality Development Research Team aimed to tackle real-world challenges through extensive field research, visiting nearly 80 large-scale enterprises and compiling valuable data to contribute to local economic development.

From July 14th to 20th, the research team conducted a comprehensive examination of Boluo County's four pillar manufacturing industries. With robust support from Jinan University's Double Hundred Action initiative, as well as collaboration from Boluo County’s Science, Industry, and Information Bureau and the Youth League Committee, the team focused their efforts on enterprises with annual output values exceeding 20 million yuan, covering critical sectors such as food production, new materials, advanced electronic information, and energy storage.

(All members of the research team)

The team comprised 13 students from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise. Under the guidance of Professor Liu Jinshan from the School of Economics and Associate Professor Yan Zizhong from the Institute of Economics and Social Research, the students leveraged Jinan University's strengths in economics, facilitating cooperation across academic and cultural borders. Drawing from previous research experiences in competitions like the National College Student Market Survey and Analysis Competition, the team coordinated effectively while focusing on the scientific rigor of their investigations.

(At the meeting)

Throughout their research, the team engaged in meaningful discussions with officials from the County Science, Industry and Information Technology Bureau, Development and Reform Bureau, and the Statistics Bureau. They explored pressing issues within the manufacturing sector and identified strategies to enhance development quality. This collaborative effort yielded over 7,300 first-hand data points, shedding light on challenges faced by local enterprises and the broader county economy.

On July 16th, team leader Wang Peng, along with faculty and students, convened a discussion meeting with key stakeholders in Boluo. The discussion centered on the manufacturing industry's current conditions and challenges, including tax policies, land use planning, and enterprise growth strategies. Participants exchanged insights to classify and address bottlenecks hindering the sector's high-quality development.

(At the discussion meeting)

The team aimed to connect directly with the practical needs of Boluo's manufacturing industry, focusing on problem identification, practical solutions, and the formulation of impactful research reports. Their research methodology combined site visits, surveys, in-depth interviews, and quantitative analyses to construct a comprehensive understanding of stakeholders’ needs and expectations.

(Team conducts in-depth workshop research)

During their investigation, team members completed nearly 240 questionnaires and conducted over 10 discussion meetings, resulting in four detailed industry reports. They synthesized this information to produce an overarching research and decision-making report aimed at addressing the high-quality development of Boluo's manufacturing sector.

(Team members pose for a photo with company representatives.)

Throughout the week-long practical experience, the students combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on research activities. Engaging directly with enterprise leaders and production processes provided invaluable insights into the manufacturing landscape. A team member from Hong Kong remarked on witnessing the adoption of advanced assembly line technologies in Boluo, emphasizing the region's leading role in high-quality manufacturing development.

The experience not only allowed the students to identify and reflect on community needs but also instilled a sense of responsibility in contributing meaningfully to regional development. They transformed their understanding into actionable insights, exemplifying the proactive spirit of youth in addressing contemporary challenges.

(The team visit the Dongjiang Column Memorial Hall.)

Upon completing their enterprise visits, the team visited the Dongjiang Column Memorial Hall on July 20th to explore Boluo's rich revolutionary history and the contributions of local heroes during the Anti-Japanese War. This excursion aimed to deepen their appreciation for the area's cultural heritage and inspire a commitment to advancing societal well-being through their research endeavors.

The memorial hall showcased the courageous acts of the Dongjiang Column, allowing team members to draw motivation from the past and reaffirm their responsibilities in promoting high-quality development for the people. Team leader Chen Shuting noted, By visiting the memorial, we understood not only the historical mission of our predecessors but also our own purpose in this research endeavor. Solid skills and meaningful contributions are essential in living up to our times. 

(All members of the team)

The research team's efforts in Boluo illustrate Jinan University's commitment to merging academic learning with community service. By addressing local manufacturing challenges, they actively contribute to the sustainable growth of the region, empowering themselves and their community through knowledge and collaboration.