The Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC) hosted a CIC Fellows Sharing Session at the Sheung Shui Campus on 20 April 2026, featuring Ir LAM Sai-hung, former Permanent Secretary for Development (Works) of the Development Bureau, as the guest speaker. Using football as an analogy, Ir LAM shared valuable insights drawn from his professional journey in engineering and his life experiences with students and staff.

Ir LAM emphasised that focus is a core competency essential to both football matches and engineering project management. He drew an analogy with examinations, explaining that engineering projects are akin to solving mathematics problems—one should not focus solely on the most challenging aspects while neglecting the fundamentals. Every step must be approached with rigour from the very beginning, as success or failure often hinges on the smallest details.

Ir LAM also shared that work may not always be enjoyable at the outset; however, through full commitment and diligent effort, a sense of achievement will naturally emerge over time. He encouraged students to approach their work with the same mindset as playing football—maintaining passion alongside discipline and focus—thereby making professional practice more meaningful and engaging.

In response to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and high technology, Ir LAM encouraged students to proactively acquire new technological skills. He noted that the learning period at HKIC provides an ideal opportunity to experiment, learn from mistakes, and build practical competencies. In addition, he stressed the importance of teamwork, urging students to connect with peers from different trades, expand their professional networks, and lay a solid foundation for future careers in the construction industry.