We should not laugh at the HKU robotic project. The students learned a lot on the way and their problem solving skills and experience will prepare them at work later in life. The concept of development is very weak in our culture. We can make snap decision on buying an apartment/ a car. To spend money on trying a new idea that may not be profitable is rare. In the west it is not that rare a person would mortgage its home to start a project, e.g.making a movie or write a book.