News

OPAA Mixer (6th Event)

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association hosted its sixth “OPAA Mixer” on 30 June 2026, bringing together a vibrant community of Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees at University, Faculty/School, and Department levels, alongside representatives from academic units and student recipients of the OPAA Scholarship. Mr Dennis Ho Chiu-ping, President of the Association, warmly welcomed members and guests and shared an overview of the Association’s growth since its establishment in 2012. The Association now comprises 94 Members and over 120 Associate Members, all united in their commitment to strengthening connections across the community and supporting PolyU’s development.  The event also featured a sharing session by Prof. Cheung Leong, Vice President (Administration and Development) of PolyU, who provided updates on the University’s latest developments. As the 90th Anniversary celebrations will be officially launched in late November, he encouraged everyone to take an active part and witness this important milestone.  This “OPAA Mixer” concluded successfully, and the Association will next begin preparations for the “OPAA Master Class”. By continuing to leverage their expertise, networks, and resources, members are committed to fostering cross-disciplinary and intergenerational exchange, making sustained contributions to talent development at their alma mater. For more highlights from the event, please visit our Facebook post. 

AlumNews (June 2026) – Your Summer Starts Here

Summer vibes are on, and alumni benefits are heating up too! Check your email inbox and open AlumNews to unlock double rewards and relive the joyful moments from our early-summer gatherings. Even more exciting events are coming your way next month!

An Evening of Making & Sharing: Eco Lamp Workshop and Seasonal Flavours

On 17 June 2026, the Alumni Affairs Office, in collaboration with the Former Staff Network and PolyU Staff Club, brought together alumni, former staff, and current staff for “An Evening of Making & Sharing: Eco Lamp Workshop and Seasonal Flavours”. The event began with an introduction by alumna Ms Vincy Ng on the latest trends and developments in renewable energy in Hong Kong. Participants then took part in a hands-on workshop, creating their own solar mosaic lamps while learning more about sustainable living in a relaxed and interactive setting. The evening continued with a seasonal dinner, where over 80 participants enjoyed a selection of summer dishes. During the dinner, Mr Yip Wai-kin, a Chinese Medicine Practitioner from the University Health Service, shared practical tips on maintaining health and balance during the summer months. Blending learning, creativity, and well-being, the evening provided an opportunity for PolyU community members to recharge and enjoy quality time together. Visit our online gallery for event highlights.

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. Photos have also been uploaded to our Facebook and Instagram for viewing and download.

【Alumni Interest Clubs】“Pelé: Birth of a Legend” Movie Night

On 11 June 2026, over 160 alumni returned to their alma mater for a screening of Pelé: Birth of a Legend, creating a lively and memorable evening on campus. The event brought alumni together to enjoy the inspiring film celebrating both sports and the arts. To make the evening even more special, participants received an exclusive gift and complimentary popcorn, both of which were thoughtful touches that enhanced the experience. Co-organised by the Alumni Football Club, the Alumni Performing Arts Appreciation Club, the Alumni Photography and Films Club, and the Culture Promotion and Events Office, the gathering also provided a wonderful opportunity for alumni to revisit familiar surroundings and spend meaningful time together amid the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which commenced in June. Visit our online gallery for event highlights, and stay tuned for upcoming Alumni Interest Club activities curated just for you.

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!