News

President’s Dialogue with Alumni

On 12 June 2026, the Alumni Affairs Office, the Global Engagement Office and the Mainland Development Office jointly organised the “President’s Dialogue with Alumni”. The event was held in a hybrid format, taking place at the Senate Room at PolyU and online via Zoom, and attracted over 200 participants both in person and online for a fruitful exchange of ideas. President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng welcomed alumni from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and overseas, expressing his appreciation for their dedication to their alma mater, which provides vital support for PolyU. He outlined the University’s current development direction as “mission-driven, problem-oriented, innovation-led, and value-creation” in response to the needs of the nation and society. He then shared PolyU’s latest developments and achievements, including its outstanding performance in world rankings; the launch of diversified programmes that meet society’s needs for talents; comprehensive support for University members in advancing research and knowledge transfer; and the extensive establishment of Mainland Translational Research Institutes to facilitate industrial upgrading. Subsequently, Prof. Cao Jiannong, Vice President (Education), introduced PolyU’s Education 4.0 initiative, demonstrating how this AI-empowered model proactively transforms education from teacher-centered teaching to student-centered learning; this underscores the University’s pedagogical attempt and reinforces its standing as a world-class innovative institution. The dialogue session was moderated by Ms Yvonne Li, Director of Alumni Affairs. President Teng, together with Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), Prof. Cao Jiannong, Vice President (Education), Mr Cheung Leong, Vice President (Administration and Development), and Dr Laura Lo, Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement), exchanged views with alumni. The graduates’ enthusiasm for giving back to their alma mater shone through, with many raising questions on topics such as industry-academia-research collaboration, the five-year strategic plan, Mainland engagement and alumni networks, while offering constructive suggestions. President Teng stayed behind for further exchanges with some alumni. All eagerly anticipated a similar gathering next year. We sincerely thank all participants for attending the event. PolyU’s unwavering commitment to excellence, impact and innovation is inseparable from the steadfast support of its alumni community. As the University approaches its 90th anniversary, such active participation is exceptionally valuable. We look forward to connecting and engaging more alumni, drawing on collective insights to propel PolyU to new heights.

Lunchtime Talk: AI for Smarter Everyday Living

Co-organised by the Alumni Affairs Office and the Federation of PolyU Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA), the lunchtime talk “AI for Smarter Everyday Living” was held in a hybrid mode on 3 June 2026. More than 210 alumni, current staff, and former staff spent a meaningful lunch hour exploring how AI can support health, travel, and personal growth.  The guest speaker, Mr Edward Lau, Chairman of the Innovation & Transformation Committee of the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Industries Association, shared his insights on the impact of AI and its implications for the future. Through a vivid introduction to practical AI tools and real-life examples, his presentation offered participants fresh perspectives and inspired them to think more deeply about how AI can be applied in daily life. He illustrated how AI can be used to track calorie intake and assist with diet management, as well as how prompts can generate professional travel itineraries, including tailored schedules and dining options for travellers of different age groups. These examples helped participants better understand the value of AI in organising information and supporting informed decision-making. The 60 participants who attended in person responded enthusiastically, taking the opportunity to engage with the speaker and ask further questions after the talk. Dr Darron Sun, President of FHKPUAA, also attended the event, and joined Ms Yvonne Li, Director of Alumni Affairs, in presenting souvenirs to Mr Lau in appreciation of his insightful and practical sharing. More alumni activities are on the way, so please stay tuned for future updates.

【Alumni Photography and Films Club】Walk and Snap: City Life Photography Workshop

On 30 May 2026, the Alumni Photography and Films Club organised the “Walk and Snap: City Life Photography Workshop”, led by PolyU alumnus and renowned art director, photographer and designer Mr Alex Ma. The full-day programme brought together 40 alumni for an immersive photography experience beyond the classroom. The workshop began on campus with a session introducing key photographic concepts and visual thinking. This was followed by an outdoor photo walk through Central and Sheung Wan, where alumni put ideas into practice as they moved through the city. Rather than being confined to a predefined theme, the workshop encouraged alumni to respond intuitively to their surroundings, from fleeting street moments to everyday human interactions. As the group explored different neighbourhoods, they experimented with composition, light, and perspective in real time, guided by Alex’s ongoing feedback and live demonstrations. By the end of the workshop, alumni had strengthened their technical skills and developed a deeper appreciation of photography as a way to observe and engage with the city. The event was well received, with participants highlighting the enjoyable experience and practical insights gained. Highlights from the day are available in the online gallery.

Alumni Connect - Causeway Bay

The second “Alumni Connect” gathering took place in Causeway Bay on 26 May 2026, bringing together more than 60 graduates for a lunchtime meet-up in one of Hong Kong’s busiest commercial districts. Designed as an informal networking session, the gathering gave alumni the chance to reconnect during the workday, exchange personal and professional updates, and meet fellow graduates from different years and backgrounds. With no formal programme, the focus remained on open conversation and genuine interaction in a relaxed setting, while the bustle of Causeway Bay added to the occasion’s energetic atmosphere. Please visit our online gallery to relive the highlights. The “Alumni Connect” series will continue to visit different districts across Hong Kong, creating convenient opportunities for alumni to stay connected with the PolyU community beyond campus. We look forward to seeing you at our next stop in Science Park!

【Alumni Interest Clubs】Between the Lines and the Vines

The Alumni Foodie Club and Alumni Reading Club co-hosted “Between the Lines and the Vines” on 21 May 2026. Held at Bistro 1979 at PolyU’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), the evening brought together 50 alumni for a delightful experience of wine, dining, and shared interests. Ms Judy Zhang, alumna and Instructor at SHTM, shared practical tips on pairing wines with everyday cuisine, along with book recommendations for those interested in exploring wine further. The evening’s wine pairing experience was then guided by alumna and wine expert Ms Jessica Song, whose professional insights deepened participants’ appreciation of each course. The atmosphere was vibrant and engaging, with alumni enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with fellow graduates while savouring good food and wine. Participants left with a broadened perspective on wine pairing, as well as new friendships and lasting memories. Visit our online gallery to relive the highlights.

AlumNews (May 2026) – Share Your Voice!

This issue highlights several opportunities for alumni to share their ideas – join in and show your support! Plus, beyond the monthly alumni benefits, some events will recruit participants exclusively through AlumNews, so be sure to open this email!

Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2026

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2026 has kicked off since March! PolyU bestows the Award on distinguished graduates in recognition of their great distinction in their chosen fields, dedicated support to their alma mater, as well as impactful contributions to the wider community. The Award is organised at Department, Faculty / School and University levels.  In addition to nominations from Faculties and Schools, the University Award also welcomes open nomination. The deadline for submitting nominations is 15 August 2026. Please visit here for details. We look forward to receiving your nominations!

【Alumni Interest Clubs】Eco-Cultural Tour @ Tai O

On 16 May 2026, the Alumni Culture and Heritage Tours Club and the Alumni Foodie Club led more than 30 alumni, together with their family members and friends, on a trip to Tai O to explore the heritage and local specialties of this traditional fishing village. Guided by docents, participants strolled through the village streets, passing local stalls and residences while learning about the history of the Tai O community. The group then toured stilt houses to learn more about the fishermen’s way of life, followed by a boat ride that offered a close-up view of the village landscape and coastline from the water. After enjoying a signature seaside lunch, participants spent the afternoon visiting several landmarks and browsing for well-known delicacies. They also took part in a Cha Guo workshop, where they made their own treats to bring home. Visit our online gallery to relive the highlights, and stay tuned for more exclusive activities organised by the alumni interest clubs!

【Alumni Singing Club】Singing Technique Workshop

On 13 May 2026, more than 20 alumni gathered at the Alumni Atrium for the Singing Technique Workshop led by soprano and vocal coach Ms Crystal Wong. The session focused on vocalisation, resonance, and emotional expression. The group was joined by Ms Yvonne Li, Director of Alumni Affairs, and Dr Darron Sun, Core Member of the Alumni Singing Club. Crystal guided participants through core vocal techniques, starting with the fundamentals, including breath control, posture, and vocal fold closure to develop a stronger, more resonant voice. She also introduced the body’s resonance points to enhance vocal brightness and richness, and demonstrated how to combine rhythmic intensity with personal emotion in the lyrics to create more moving performances. A highlight of the workshop was the individual coaching session, during which Crystal selected several alumni for one-on-one guidance. All participants benefited by observing the live coaching and learning key techniques together.  This 90-minute workshop proved both engaging and rewarding for everyone. Alumni singing enthusiasts, don’t miss the “Alumni Night of Singing and Board Games” on 16 June, which will be another special opportunity to reconnect with the PolyU community through beautiful melodies!

Alumni Connect – Tsim Sha Tsui

The “Alumni Connect” series was launched with its inaugural gathering in Tsim Sha Tsui on 29 April 2026. Alumni from diverse backgrounds came together for an enjoyable lunch, where lively conversations and renewed connections flourished in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. During the event, Ms Yvonne Li, Director of Alumni Affairs, shared the University’s ongoing efforts to enhance alumni engagement. She highlighted the importance of fostering lifelong connections between alumni and PolyU, and encouraged graduates to stay connected and actively participate in alumni initiatives and activities. The gathering also featured a sharing session by Dr Darron Sun, President of the Federation of PolyU Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA). He outlined FHKPUAA’s role in uniting PolyU alumni and introduced its new membership structure, reflecting its commitment to building a stronger and more connected alumni network. Visit our online gallery to relive the highlights, and stay tuned for more “Alumni Connect” gatherings at other locations as we continue to strengthen alumni ties and create new memories.