Closing remarks by VTC Chairman, The Honorable Jeffrey Lam, at the Closing Ceremony of the VTC-ITE International Student Seminar 2026

Ms Jasmin Lau
Minister of State, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Digital Development and Information, Singapore

Mr Peter Lam
CEO of ITE

ITE, VTC and Shenzhen Polytechnic University Friends,

Distinguished Speakers, Guests, Students, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. Good morning!  As we reach the grand finale of the ITE-VTC International Student Seminar (ISS) 2026, I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude.  Over the past few days, we have witnessed not just presentations, but passion, creativity, friendship and genuine connection.  It has been truly uplifting to see students shine.  I believe this is a feeling we all share.

2. Being here in Singapore is always a pleasure.  Since 2007, the ISS has been more than just a seminar; it has served as an important bridge between ITE and VTC.  The theme this year - “Youth Voices in a Changing World”, captures the very essence of our shared journey.  With Shenzhen Polytechnic University joining us, our circle has grown bigger, and our commitment to collaboration and youth development has become even more meaningful.

3. Both the Hong Kong and Singapore Governments share a common vision — to build smart, sustainable cities and to nurture global talent.  You should all take pride in taking part in ISS which forms part and parcel of this vision.  More importantly, it brings that vision to life through your ideas, your curiosity and your willingness to engage.

4. To celebrate the incredible energy, I have seen this week, let me leave you with a five-letter framework for your future: your V.O.I.C.E., reflecting this year’s theme - “Youth Voices in a Changing World”.

• V – Visionary:  In the “Innovative Cities” theme, I saw many of you thinking beyond the present — imagining what our cities could become and how we can shape them in a more sustainable way.

• O – Open-minded: Through the “AI-enhanced World” discussions, you embraced new technologies with curiosity and confidence, seeing their potential to create positive change.

• I – Inclusive: In the “Shared Stories” sessions, you reminded us that true progress means leaving no one behind.  You navigated complex identities with a level of maturity that is truly inspiring.

• C – Collaborative: Across all activities, the teamwork in your projects and the connections you built.  The friendships you have built here, across Singapore, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, are just as valuable as any lesson you will carry forward.
  

• E – Empowered: This is the ultimate goal of our seminar.  Through your presentations and conversations, you have demonstrated how vocational education can transform ideas into real impact.  You leave here not just as students, but ready to make a difference.

5. As we conclude, my heartfelt thanks to ITE for being such magnificent hosts.  My sincere appreciation to Chairman Andrew (ITE Chairman), Deputy Chairman Choon Phong (ITE Deputy Chairman), CEO Peter (ITE CEO), and the entire ITE team for your dedication and warm hospitality.   My thanks also go to our guest speakers from both Singapore and Hong Kong, Professor CHEONG, Richard and Bosco, inspiring us with their insightful perspectives.  To our students, I trust this wonderful experience would stay with you well beyond these few days.  The ideas you have shared here carry real potential to make a meaningful difference in our communities.  Last but not least, a huge shout-out to my VTC colleagues for their efforts contributing to the successful coordination of ISS 2026!

6. Though our time here has been short, I hope all of you will take home the valuable friendships and fond memories.  We look forward to seeing you in Hong Kong in 2028, where we will once again inspire, excite, and strive for excellence together!

Thank you.