PolyU and EY Renew MoU to Advance ESG and Sustainability Talent Development

PolyU and Ernst & Young Advisory Services Limited (EY) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15 September 2026, further deepening collaboration in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability. The renewed agreement underscores both parties’ commitment to nurturing future leaders, strengthening knowledge exchange, and promoting best practices in ESG for Hong Kong and beyond. The MoU was signed by Prof. Nancy Su, Head of the School of Accounting and Finance, and Mr Benny Cheung, EY Hong Kong and Macau Managing Partner. Also witnessed by Dr Laura Lo, Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement), and Mr Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and Greater China Regional Managing Partner.  Since the partnership began in 2021, PolyU and EY have built a strong foundation in advancing ESG initiatives, talent development, and knowledge transfer. Under the renewed MoU, PolyU will continue to promote forward-looking academic insights and industry practices through thematic research exchanges and the sharing of research findings. EY will provide professional guidance and regular engagement opportunities for students of the School of Accounting and Finance, enabling them to apply academic knowledge in real-world business contexts. Looking ahead, PolyU and EY will actively engage in industry forums, professional training programmes, and academic seminars, while exploring broader opportunities such as student internships, talent recruitment, and professional development initiatives. Together, the two institutions aim to nurture high-calibre ESG professionals and contribute to Hong Kong’s sustainable future. Media Coverage 安永與理大續簽合作備忘錄，攜手培育ESG及可持續發展人才 – 經濟通  安永與理大續簽合作備忘錄，攜手培育ESG及可持續發展人才 – 香港經濟日報  安永與理大續簽合作備忘錄培育ESG及可持續發展人才 – 華富財經  安永與理大續簽合作備忘錄 培育ESG及可持續發展人才 – 匯港通訊  理大与安永续签合作备忘录 携手培育ESG及可持续发展人才 – 紫荆号  理大與安永續簽合作備忘錄 攜手培育ESG及可持續發展人才 – 紫荊號  安永攜手香港理工大學續簽備忘錄 深化ESG及可持續發展領域合作 – 股市漁夫  理大與安永續簽合作備忘錄 攜手培育ESG及可持續發展人才– 香港理工大學  PolyU and EY renew MoU to advance ESG and sustainability talent development – The Hong Kong Polytechnic University   

1st RCESGA ESG Leadership Talk Successfully Held

The Research Centre for ESG Advancement (RCESGA) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully hosted the inaugural RCESGA ESG Leadership Talk on Friday, 11 September 2026, at M1603, Li Ka Shing Tower. Established on 1 January 2026, RCESGA marked the Talk as its first public flagship event since inception, and the official launch of the ESG Leadership Talk Series — an interdisciplinary platform engaging faculty and students across the University. The event was organised by RCESGA and School of Accounting and Finance (AF), with support from the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) and Faculty of Business (FB).  The Talk featured Dr SHEN Peng, Founder, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Chief Executive Officer of Waterdrop Inc. (NYSE: WDH), as the keynote speaker. An Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2024 recipient, Dr Shen has long been committed to advancing inclusive insurance and healthcare services through technology.  Dr Tai-fai LAM, Chairman of the Council, President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG and Deputy President and Provost Prof. Wing-tak WONG were among the senior PolyU leaders in attendance. Prof. Wong delivered the welcoming remarks on behalf of the University. He said that, at PolyU, an innovative world-class university with a strong commitment to social responsibility, higher education plays a vital role in preparing future leaders to address pressing global challenges—from sustainable development and social equity to ethical governance. He added that ESG is no longer a corporate consideration alone; it is central to how the University educates, conducts research, and serves society. He expressed his support and encouragement for RCESGA and the Talk series. In his address, “Technology Empowers Inclusive Protection: A Review of Waterdrop’s Decade-long Exploration as a Social Enterprise,” Dr Shen shared his entrepreneurial journey, the opportunities brought by the age of artificial intelligence (AI), and Waterdrop’s experience in advancing inclusive protection and fulfilling social responsibility. He reflected that Waterdrop was founded out of a concern for real social needs and the practical challenges facing people’s daily lives, with the aim of enabling more families to access affordable protection through innovative technology. He emphasised that true inclusiveness lies not only in providing services, but also in recognising the different circumstances and needs of different families, and offering more targeted support accordingly. Dr Shen also observed that AI can help improve operational efficiency and reduce information loss in communication, yet in understanding social realities, building trust, and demonstrating empathy, human interaction remains an irreplaceable core value in real-world service delivery.  During the Q&A session, faculty and students actively raised questions on the future development of ESG, the application of AI, corporate social responsibility, and youth entrepreneurship, and engaged in an in-depth exchange with Dr Shen. The discussion was lively and warmly received. The ESG Leadership Talk Series offered PolyU faculty and students a valuable opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders. Building on the success of the inaugural session, RCESGA will continue to organise future talks featuring leading practitioners and thought leaders from diverse sectors. PolyU faculty members and students are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming events.  

Launch of the Hong Kong Climate Awareness: Public Understanding, Risk Perception, and Readiness for a Low-Carbon Future

Launch of the Hong Kong Climate Awareness: Public Understanding, Risk Perception, and Readiness for a Low-Carbon Future The Research Centre for ESG Advancement (“RCESGA”) and the School of Accounting and Finance at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (“PolyU”), in collaboration with Bank of China (Hong Kong) (“BOCHK”), released a joint research report titled Hong Kong Climate Awareness: Public Understanding, Risk Perception and Readiness for a Low-Carbon Future. Public understanding of climate-related issues and public participation are critical as Hong Kong advances towards its carbon neutrality goals. The research report draws on an online survey of 2,000 adult residents from all 18 districts in the Hong Kong, with quotas applied across age, gender, broad geographical area, education and housing type. It provides an in-depth analysis of public awareness of climate change, perceptions of local climate risks, behavioural responses in daily life, and views on climate policies and green finance. Based on the survey data, the research team developed and launched the Hong Kong Climate Awareness Index (HKCAI), a composite indicator for assessing climate awareness among Hong Kong residents across three dimensions, including foundational understanding of climate change, awareness of local climate impacts, and perceptions of climate-related risks. Rather than serving as a tool for assessing factual knowledge, the HKCAI provides a structured baseline for identifying differences across population groups, tracking changes over time, and providing data-driven support for public education and policymaking. The HKCAI recorded a mean score of 74.67 out of 100, indicating a certain level of general awareness of climate issues among Hong Kong residents. The index provides a quantitative framework for assessing climate awareness, while highlighting areas where further improvement is needed, underscoring the importance of continued public education and capacity building. Professor Wing-tak Wong, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, said, “Public understanding and participation are essential to the success of Hong Kong’s green transition. This joint study provides evidence that can help turn climate awareness into action. By combining the research capabilities of universities with the expertise and reach of the financial sector, we can support practical, inclusive and trusted pathways towards a low-carbon future.” Professor Qiang Wu, Director of RCESGA and Professor and Associate Head (Research) of the School of Accounting and Finance at PolyU, said, “Public climate awareness should not be viewed as a single score or a fixed condition. It develops through personal experience, access to information, and changes in policy and financial choices. The value of this study lies in providing a basis for observing these changes over time and helping future education, policy and market initiatives respond more closely to Hong Kong’s evolving needs.” Professor Nan Yang, Associate Professor of Finance at the School of Accounting and Finance, PolyU, said, “Only 23% of respondents selected banks or financial institutions as a preferred source of climate information, while 8% selected schools or universities. These figures point to an important opportunity. Universities generate climate knowledge and educate future professionals, while banks connect climate issues with financing decisions and green financial products. Both can play a stronger role in climate communication by making reliable information more accessible, deepening public understanding and encouraging climate-friendly action.” Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK, said, “Banks play a vital role in advancing ESG development. As many as 80% of respondents considering banks’ ESG  investment important, while about 70% believe that banks can make an even greater contribution to addressing climate change. This underscores the high expectations that society places on financial institutions. BOCHK will continue to play a leading role by offering a broader range of innovative green finance solutions, promoting greater transparency and disclosure, and strengthening its role in climate education. We remain committed to supporting a more sustainable future.”  Released during Hong Kong Green Week 2026, the report has also been featured in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s recap of the week’s key initiatives. For more information and to download the full report, please visit: https://www.bochk.com/dam/esg/download/Research-Paper/Hong-Kong-Climate-Awareness-Public-Understanding-Risk-Perception-and-Readiness-for-a-Low-Carbon-Future.pdf

AF Research Project Secures RGC Theme-based Research Scheme Funding for AI Risk Management Research

The School of Accounting and Finance (AF) is delighted to announce that a research project led by Prof. Feng TIAN, Associate Professor of AF, has received funding under the Research Grants Council (RGC) Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS) 2026/27. The project, titled “Managing AI Risk for Businesses in Hong Kong”, has been awarded approximately HK$10.84 million and is among the highly competitive projects selected to address issues of strategic importance to Hong Kong's long-term development. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into business operations, the project aims to develop a comprehensive AI risk management framework tailored to Hong Kong's business environment. The project will examine AI adoption patterns across firms and occupations, explore implications for workforce planning and talent development, and investigate the use of generative AI in corporate disclosures and analysts' reports. It will also assess compliance, operational, and misinformation risks associated with AI technologies, providing valuable insights for businesses, regulators, and policymakers. Through collaboration with industry partners, the project will produce practical outcomes, including an open-access AI risk management service, algorithms for detecting AI-generated misinformation, and policy recommendations to support responsible AI governance. This achievement highlights AF's research excellence and its commitment to generating impactful knowledge that addresses emerging business challenges.  The School congratulates Prof. Tian and his research team on this significant accomplishment and looks forward to the project's contribution to advancing responsible AI adoption and corporate governance in Hong Kong. Read the full PolyU press release: https://polyu.hk/VDcLk  

CAFR Special Issue Conference 2026

The China Accounting and Finance Review (CAFR) Special Issue Conference 2026, jointly organised by the School of Accounting and Finance and the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and the School of Accountancy of Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, will be held at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Wuhan, China on 28-29 November 2026.   Conference Theme and Aims   The conference theme for this year is “ESG in the AI Era: Challenges and Opportunities”. This special issue conference aims to explore the evolving relationship between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices and artificial intelligence (AI) in the contemporary business landscape. As AI technologies increasingly reshape how firms collect, process, and disclose ESG information, new challenges and opportunities emerge for stakeholders, regulators, and researchers alike. We seek to advance understanding of how AI impacts ESG reporting quality, assurance, investment decision-making, and corporate accountability. The conference also welcomes submissions from critical perspectives on ethical risks, algorithmic bias, and regulatory gaps introduced by AI-driven ESG practices. By bringing together interdisciplinary research, this special issue conference aspires to inform both academic inquiry and practical policy development, offering insights into responsible innovation, sustainability strategy, and the future of governance in the AI era.   The key features of this conference are:   AI-Driven ESG Reporting and Assurance; Algorithmic Bias, Ethics, and Fairness in ESG Analytics; Regulatory Responses to AI-Enabled ESG Practices; AI, Greenwashing, and Corporate Accountability; and AI for Sustainable Finance and Investment Decision-Making.   Conference Format and Paper Presentation   The conference will feature plenary sessions and concurrent sessions. Authors of papers invited to be presented at the plenary sessions are expected to commit to publishing their papers in the special issue of CAFR (scheduled to be published in the second half of the year following the conference). The commitment to publish with CAFR requirement only applies to papers accepted for presentation at the plenary sessions, and not to those accepted for presentation at the concurrent sessions.    One author of each paper accepted for presentation at the plenary sessions will be invited to present the paper at the conference and will be provided with three nights of accommodation and airfare reimbursement. The maximum amount of airfare reimbursement will range from USD 500 to USD 2,000, depending on the location of the presenter’s affiliation. The conference organisers reserve the final decision on the exact amount to be reimbursed. Presenters at the concurrent sessions will not be provided with accommodation and airfare reimbursement by the conference organizers.          Conference Schedule   Dates:           28-29 November 2026 (Saturday & Sunday) Location:      Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China Theme:         ESG in the AI Era: Challenges and Opportunities   Paper Submission   Please send a complete English version of your submission in Microsoft Word format, including separate files for the title page and for the blinded manuscript, by 31 August 2026 via the online Submission System (https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/cafr). Please select “ESG in the AI Era: Challenges and Opportunities” at Step 6: Details & Comments, and indicate in the cover letter whether you prefer to have your submission considered for:   the plenary session only (which requires a commitment to publish in CAFR if selected); the concurrent session only (which does not require a commitment to publish in CAFR); or both sessions.   For submission guidelines, please visit: https://www.emeraldgrouppublishing.com/journal/cafr#jlp_author_guidelines   There is no paper submission fee for the CAFR Special Issue Conference. Each paper will be peer-reviewed according to the policies of CAFR and the journal publisher Emerald.   Authors will be notified of their acceptance by 4 October 2026.   Key Dates   Paper Submission Opens: 15 April 2026 Submission Deadline: 2 August 2026 31 August 2026 Notification of Acceptance: 4 October 2026   Guest Editors   Prof. Sihai LI, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law Prof. Yi XIANG, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Colin ZENG, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Qi ZHANG, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law    Conference Organising Committee   Prof. Sihai LI, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law Prof. Nancy SU, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Qiang WU, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Qi ZHANG, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law   Organisers   School of Accounting and Finance, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Accountancy, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law  

PolyU Welcomes CUFE Delegation & Launches Joint DDFAI Programme

The School of Accounting and Finance (AF) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) warmly welcomed a delegation from the Central University of Finance and Economics (CUFE), led by President Prof. Haitao MA, on 29 June 2026. The visit marked a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two institutions, highlighted by the official launch of the Doctor of Digital Finance with Artificial Intelligence (DDFAI) proramme, offered by AF in collaboration with CUFE. The delegation was received by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, alongside key AF representatives, including Dr Justin LAW, Associate Head of AF, Prof. Hong XIANG, DDFAI Programme Director, and Prof. Wenzhi DING, a member of the DDFAI Programme Planning Committee. During the meeting, Prof. Wing-tak WONG and President Haitao MA delivered welcoming remarks, expressing their shared vision for deepening future collaboration in education and research. The highlight of the visit was the plaque unveiling ceremony for the newly established DDFAI programme. Officiated jointly by Prof. Wong and President Ma, the ceremony officially inaugurated this cutting-edge programme, which is designed to nurture top-tier talent possessing a profound understanding of both financial practices and artificial intelligence technologies. AF looks forward to building on this partnership with CUFE and advancing new opportunities in accounting, finance, and innovation.

JCAE Annual Symposium and Doctoral Consortium 2027

CALL FOR PAPERS JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY ACCOUNTING & ECONOMICS Annual Symposium and Doctoral Consortium January 15th – 17th, 2027 The 2027 JCAE Annual Symposium, organized by the Journal, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and The Macau University of Science and Technology, will be held on the campus of The Macau University of Science and Technology during January 16-17, 2027. It will be preceded by the Doctoral Consortium on January 15, 2027.   The Theme The theme of the 2027 JCAE Annual Symposium will be The Future of Accounting and Economics Research: AI, Sustainability, and More. We invite submissions of original research papers using innovative methods to address relevant and practical issues. We particularly welcome timely research that can enhance our understanding of how AI, sustainability initiatives, and other emerging yet critical issues are transforming the future of accounting and economics research. These topics include, but are not limited to: AI, Fintech, Machine learning applications Sustainability reporting, disclosure, and regulation Corporate accountability, governance, stakeholder primacy Green and transition finance, macroeconomic impact   Keynote Speakers Professor Sudipto Dasgupta, Department of Finance, Business School, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Professor Liandong Zhang, School of Accountancy, Singapore Management University   Details & Submission Guidelines Plenary session submissions Plenary paper submissions should be made directly to JCAE using Editorial Manager. The submission fee is US$100. The submission fee will be refunded for the papers accepted for plenary session presentation. Use the following link to submit papers: https://www.editorialmanager.com/cae/default1.aspx In the “Article Type,” choose Conference Papers. 1 Best Paper Award (USD 300) and 1 Best Discussant Award (USD 200) will be presented at the conference. Concurrent session submissions Concurrent manuscripts should be submitted in MS Word format (1 blind copy & 1 copy with authors’ details) to jcae2027.conf@polyu.edu.hk. Please state clearly that the manuscript is submitted for the Concurrent Session by including “Concurrent Session” in the subject line of the email. Please do not use Editorial Manager for the submission of Concurrent Session papers. There is no submission fee for Concurrent Sessions submissions.   Journal Publication Subject to satisfactory revision and acceptance by the Editors, papers accepted for Plenary Sessions will be published in the JCAE. Authors are required to sign a copyright release form as a condition of publication.   Authors who do not wish to commit their papers to the Journal should submit their papers for consideration at the Concurrent Sessions. Note that concurrent session submissions are not considered journal submissions and will not be automatically considered for the journal.   Plenary submissions not selected for Plenary Sessions will automatically be considered for the Concurrent Sessions. Authors who do not wish their papers to be considered for Concurrent Sessions should clearly state this in their submission (or notify us after submitting it to Editorial Manager). Doctoral consortium submissions The Doctoral Consortium allows students to present their proposals and interact with renowned professors of international standing. Research proposals should be submitted in MS-Word format with an abstract (maximum 800 words) to jcae2027.conf@polyu.edu.hk. Please state clearly that the proposal is submitted for the Doctoral Consortium by including “Doctoral Consortium” in the title of the email.   Important Dates Please make your submissions (i.e., papers for Plenary sessions through Editorial Manager and papers for Concurrent sessions or Doctoral Consortium via email) by August 31, 2026. Authors will be notified of their acceptance around September 30, 2026. Each paper will be peer-reviewed according to the policies of JCAE and the journal publisher Elsevier.   About the Journal of Contemporary Accounting & Economics The JCAE is a tri-annual publication published by Elsevier in April, August, and December. The Journal encourages submissions in all the major areas related to accounting and auditing issues. JCAE is widely recognized as a high-quality journal by researchers and journal evaluation institutes. For example, since 2010, JCAE has been ranked an “A” grade journal in the Journal Rating Listing of the Australian Business Deans Council (ABDC). JCAE is included in the SCOPUS of Elsevier, the EconLit of the American Economic Association, and the SSCI listing. The Journal has an impact factor of 2.9 and a Citescore of 6.0. For all inquiries, please contact: jcae2027.conf@polyu.edu.hk   Conference Organising Committee   Prof. Lin Yongjia, The Macau University of Science and Technology Prof. Nancy Su, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Zhang Shuran, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University  

Result Announcement: Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU School of Accounting and Finance 2026

We are pleased to present the “Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU School of Accounting and Finance 2026” to two distinguished graduates in recognition of their outstanding achievement, active support to their alma mater as well as impactful contributions to the wider community. Congratulations to the following awardees!

AF Students Recognised at PolyU–CCB (Asia) Scholarship Presentation Ceremony

The School of Accounting and Finance (AF) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is pleased to share that its students have been recognised at the PolyU – China Construction Bank (Asia) (CCB (Asia)) Scholarship Presentation Ceremony, held on 29 May 2026. Organised under the theme “Financing the World, Building the Future,” the initiative reflects a shared commitment between PolyU and CCB (Asia) to nurture globally minded financial talent equipped to meet the evolving demands of the industry. This year, all 18 scholarship recipients are undergraduate students from AF, demonstrating the School’s strong dedication to developing future-ready professionals. The awardees were recognised for their outstanding potential in three key areas shaping the future of finance: artificial intelligence, sustainable finance and cross-border finance.  Among the recipients, three First Prize awardees delivered impressive presentations at the ceremony, showcasing their ability to integrate academic research with current industry developments. A highlight of the ceremony was a symbolic activity in which awardees wrote down their career aspirations and placed them into a globe. This meaningful gesture represents the joint commitment of PolyU and CCB (Asia) to support young talents and contribute to the development of Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area and the global financial landscape. These students’ achievements underscore AF’s dedication to driving impact through talent development by nurturing professionals who are equipped to lead digital transformation, advance sustainability and create long-term value in the financial sector. The School extends its heartfelt congratulations to all scholarship recipients and looks forward to their continued success. Read the full PolyU press release: https://polyu.hk/EzrYq  

AF Students Complete Cambridge Immersion Programme on AI Applications in Accounting and Finance

The School of Accounting and Finance (AF) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University successfully concluded the PolyU Cambridge Immersion Programme in AI Applications in Accounting and Finance, held from 18 to 22 May 2026 at the Møller Institute, Churchill College, University of Cambridge. Led by Prof. Feng TIAN, Programme Director of the MSc in Accounting and Finance Analytics (MAFA), and Prof. Angie WANG, the programme brought together 27 students from MAFA and other AF programmes for an intensive learning experience focused on artificial intelligence, fintech, and data-driven innovation. Throughout the week, students engaged in lectures, workshops, and simulations covering topics such as fintech innovation, data science and cyber crisis management. They also visited leading fintech companies Revolut and Endava in London, gaining valuable industry insights and engaging in career discussions with professionals. The programme concluded with student group presentations, followed by a certificate presentation ceremony and celebratory dinner at the historic Downing College, University of Cambridge. This immersive experience reflects AF's commitment to equipping students with global perspectives, industry exposure, and future-ready skills for the rapidly evolving accounting and finance profession. The School congratulates all participants on their outstanding achievements and successful completion of the programme.