Amgen Biotech Experience Workshop: Hands-on Extended Learning for S.3 students
On 9 May 2026, sixteen curious S.3 students from our school enjoyed a fruitful morning in the Biology Laboratory, where they carried out hands-on molecular biology experiments.
About ten years ago, biology learners typically did not get the chance to experience biotechnology techniques such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis until their university studies. Today, however, our students can explore these foundational skills first-hand, even at S.3 level—gaining an early glimpse into biotech research and discovery.
The Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE) is an innovative science education program supported by the Amgen Foundation. Through the previous partnership with CUHK, the program introduces secondary school students to the importance of scientific discovery through the hands-on molecular biology learning experience that links core science concepts to real-world applications.
Our S.3 students have learned key concepts in basic genetics, including the structure and function of DNA, during their Biology classes. They also gained a brief understanding of mutations and an introduction to biotechnology, such as genetic engineering. Through the Amgen Biotechnology Workshop, students were able to put textbook knowledge into real-world applications, helping to consolidate what they had learned while also sparking their imagination about future possibilities in biotech. One student shared his wish of becoming a marine biologist, while other students are still exploring and have not yet identified their career goals. Overall, we believe that this early exposure is highly beneficial, as it helps students better understand their interests and future directions.
