APSS Student Conference 2025: Nurturing Strength in the Face of Adversity

The APSS Student Conference 2025 was successfully held on 23 May 2025. The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Juan CHEN, Associate Head and Professor of APSS, who highlighted the importance of resilience in challenging times. This was followed by a greeting from two core members of the Organising Committee, and they were two PhD students, Ms. Olivia Xin CHEN, and  Mr. Louis Yin Ting TO. Three keynote presentations were delivered in this conference. Dr Timothy SIM, Associate Professor and Head of Master of Counselling Programme at the Singapore University of Social Sciences, presented on the topic of “Individual Growth in the Face of Adversity from a Systemic Perspective”. Prof. Janet LEUNG, Professor of APSS, shared her insights on “Enhancing Family Resilience During Adversity: Insights from Hong Kong”. Prof. Jolanda JETTEN, Head of School of Psychology at the University of Queensland, delivered her presentation titled “Living in an Unequal World: Consequences for Societies' Social and Political Vitality”. Over 110 participants, including students and colleagues within and outside APSS, attended the conference both in person and via Zoom, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

London Study Tour for Doctor of Social Work Students

From 21 to 30 April 2025, a considerable number of Doctor of Social Work (DSW) students embarked on an enriching study tour in London.  It was led by Prof. Hok Bun KU, Programme Leader of DSW, Director of China and Global Development Network (CGDN) and Professor of APSS, Prof. Camilla LO, Deputy Programme Leader of DSW and Associate Professor of APSS and Dr Sui Kan YIP, Assistant Director (Partnership and Development) of CGDN. This incredible opportunity was made possible through the strong network and support of Goldsmiths, University of London. We are also grateful for the support from the Keswick Foundation and the privilege of meeting with Mrs Clara WEATHERALL, Chairman of the Keswick Foundation’s Board of Governors, Mrs Clare KESWICK and Mrs Martha KESWICK. Also thank goes to Dr Carmen YAU, alumnus of APSS and several faculty member at Goldsmiths, for their support to this study tour. Read more: CGDN website: https://polyucgdn.com/article/289

2025 Macau Study Tour

Between 13 and 15 May 2025, 17 students from the Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Arts in Guidance and Counselling (MAGC) programmes embarked on a study trip to Macau. Led by Prof. Jessica LI, Programme Leader of MSW and Associate Professor of APSS, and Prof. Xiaomin LI, Assistant Professor of APSS, the title of the trip is “The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Professional Practice and Community Care Exploration Tour.” During the three-day visit, students visited the University of Macau and Macao Polytechnic University, where they attended the seminars on topics such as social service development in GBA, Big Data analysis of cyber fraud, and their implications for social work practice. Students also visited Vila de Nossa Senhora (路環聖母村) and various non-governmental organisations such as WelAnser Centre, SKH Gambling Counselling and Family Wellness Centre, and UGAMM’s Youth Team.   The trip not only offered valuable insights into innovative approaches to community care for migrant workers, family interventions for individuals with gambling disorders, and outreach services for at-risk youth, but also emphasised the importance of evidence-based practice through the use of big-data analysis. This study tour enhanced students’ understanding of cross-border professional practices and strengthened the ties between Hong Kong’s and Macau’s social service sectors.

Kick-off Ceremony of Mentorship Programme 2025-2027

The APSS Mentorship Programme 2025-2027 aims to build and foster networks and friendships between our graduating students and experienced alumni for professional and career development. The kick-off ceremony of the Mentorship Programme was held on 3 May 2025 in PolyU. A total of 78 alumni and students (45 student mentees and 33 alumni mentors) were matched successfully for this two-year mentorship programme, running from May 2025 to May 2027. Mentors and mentees are expected to meet at least once every half a year. For a more fruitful mentoring experience, each mentor-mentee group is also partnered with another group over the two-year period.

Symposium on Social and Emotional Learning and Positive Youth Development in Chinese Societies

APSS hosted a one-day symposium on 20 March 2025, titled "Fostering Social and Emotional Learning and Promoting Positive Youth Development in Chinese Societies", funded by the Yuen Grant of the University of Chicago. The event gathered scholars, practitioners, and community members to explore innovative research and approaches to Social and Emotional learning (SEL) and Positive Youth Development (PYD). The day began with opening remarks by Prof. Eric CHUI, Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, Head of APSS and Co-Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology. The keynote sessions featured ground breaking research on SEL advancements in rural China, presented by Prof. Curtis MCMILLEN and Ms. Linyun FU from the University of Chicago, alongside insights from Ms. Zhen ZHANG and Ms. Lihuang SHAO of the RICI Foundation on community-based SEL programme development. Prof. Daniel T. L. SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Chair Professor of APSS, showcased the PATHS programme, a school-based PYD project in Hong Kong, highlighting its impact on youth development. The presentation was followed by an engaging Q&A session, allowing participants to delve deeper into the findings. In the afternoon session of the symposium, a series of presentations highlighted the impactful research of Prof. Juyeon LEE, Assistant Professor of the University of Hong Kong, Prof. Julie ZHU and Prof. Diya DOU, Assistant Professors of APSS, and Prof. Lu YU, Associate Head and Associate Professor of APSS. Their work explored vital topics including teacher social-emotional competence, family resilience, parenting practices, and adolescent development – offering valuable insights into the dynamics shaping youth and family well-being. The symposium concluded with Prof. McMillen's remarks emphasising the importance of continued collaboration in advancing social-emotional learning (SEL) and positive youth development (PYD) across diverse populations. The event left participants inspired to translate these insights into meaningful actions that support youth well-being in Chinese societies and beyond.

Presentation Ceremony for Outstanding Student Award and Presidential Student Leadership Award 2024/25

Our Department is proud to announce that Miss Cho Man FONG, a Year 4 student from the BA (Hons) in Social Work, was awarded both the Outstanding Student Award and Presidential Student Leadership Award 2024/25. The Presentation Ceremony was held on 3 April 2025 at Hotel ICON. Congratulations to Miss FONG on her remarkable achievement!   Reflecting on the honour of receiving two prestigious Awards, Miss FONG shared:   “Adolescence is a critical period in growing up, yet it is not always easy to get through. I clearly know this because I have faced many challenges during that time as well. Fortunately, there was a school social worker who supported me throughout the challenges that I faced. As a former service user, I recognise the profound impact that social workers can have on students. Since then, I have cultivated an interest in social work. After getting into PolyU, my passion for social work was further deepened during the field placement … During my field placement at an agency serving sexual minorities in Hong Kong, I utilised my leadership skills to engage participants and build meaningful relationships. As a facilitator and mediator, I coordinated volunteer activities, resolved disagreements among participants, and encouraged productive discussions. Additionally, I served as a volunteer with The Samaritan Befrienders, providing online support to individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts … After graduation, I plan to pursue a career as a school social worker, inspired by the support I received from the school social worker during my challenging adolescence. These two Awards strengthen my confidence to guide and empower youth, particularly those facing confusion and difficulties during their formative period. Ultimately, I aspire to inspire others as I was inspired, embodying the values of empathy, resilience, and dedication.” 

Kicking Off PolyU Igniting Social Innovation Competition 2025

On 22 March 2025, APSS hosted the Opening Ceremony and Workshop One for the PolyU Igniting Social Innovation Competition 2025. Over 130 secondary school students and their teachers attended the event. Prof. Eric CHUI, Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, Head of APSS and Co-Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology, delivered a welcome speech, encouraging young people to drive innovation and technology for social good.   The event featured two dynamic guest speakers, Mr. Justin CHAN, COO of CLAIRE Clinical AI Research Limited and Ms. Rosie CHAN, Founder of JAPJAP Zero Waste Limited, who shared their entrepreneurial journeys in promoting well-being and effective waste management. Their stories sparked curiosity and motivation among the students. Additionally, two talented APSS students majoring in Social Work, Miss Wing Ki LEUNG and Miss Ka Yiu CHAN, showcased their innovative App that designed to improve sleep quality for those who are struggling with sleep problems.   The students eagerly engaged with the speakers, asking questions and exchanging ideas, making the event a vibrant hub of learning and inspiration.   Stay tuned for more updates as these young minds continue to ignite social change! We know they can make a difference in the society which they live and care!

International Talk on Narrative Identity and Resilience Among Young Adults Formerly in Foster Care

APSS held a highly anticipated international talk entitled "Making Sense of the Senseless and Finding Identity in Difficult Lives" on 19 March 2025. This talk featured an esteemed speaker Prof. Curtis MCMILLEN, David Mary Winton Green Professor at the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice at the University of Chicago.   In his captivating presentation, Prof. MCMILLEN presented the findings from a qualitative interview study that used narrative identity theory to explore how emerging adults construct useful life stories and identities from exceptionally difficult circumstances.   The talk was moderated by Prof. Lu YU, Associate Professor and Associate Head in APSS; and concluded by Prof. Eric CHUI, Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, Head of APSS and Co-Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology. The event not only fostered an engaging discussion but also left attendees with profound insights into the complexities of narrative identity and the resilience of emerging adults formerly in foster care.

APSS Active Participation in Social Work Day 2025

On 18 March 2025, APSS colleagues, alumni, and students from the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Work (BASW) participated in the Kick-off Ceremony of “With You Along the Way” (「同途有你」), organised by the Hong Kong Social Workers Association and various social work training institutes in Hong Kong. The theme of this year is "Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing," which highlights the importance of caring for and respecting each generation to build caring societies, sustain the environment, and share wisdom for a better future.   During the ceremony, our BASW year-4 student, Ms. Kelly TAM, received a flag presentation from the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr. Chris Yuk-han SUN, JP, while Dr Kong YAM, Senior Lecturer of APSS and Programme Leader of BASW, accepted a certificate of appreciation from the Director of Social Welfare, Mr. Edward Wing-hang TO, JP.   Students also met with two alumni, including Ms. Yvonne CHAK, Director of Hong Kong Christian Service and outstanding APSS alumna of 2023, and Ms. Emily LEE, Deputy Chief Executive of Hong Kong Young Women’s Christian Association, to gain insights into the development of social services in Hong Kong.   Additionally, an agency visit to The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Kong (ELCHK) Multidisciplinary Outreaching Support Team was arranged, where our alumna, Ms. Allen LAM, Service Director of ELCHK, shared her inspiring journey as a social worker. 

HKMFTA Annual Conference 2024-25 Successfully Concludes at PolyU, Highlighting Youth Mental Health and Collaboration

The Hong Kong Marriage and Family Therapy Association (HKMFTA) Annual Conference 2024-25 concluded successfully at the PolyU campus on 15-16 March 2025. The event, themed "Hong Kong Families, Schools and Community Collaboration: Joining Hands to Promote the Mental Health of Our Younger Generation," addressed youth mental health issues.   The two-day conference featured four keynote speeches, twelve workshops, and two symposiums on nurturing and maintaining youth mental health and family resilience. The HKMFTA Research Committee also presented the research results on how the school clinical practitioners facilitate the school-family-community collaboration to help students with mental health challenges.   Prof. Eric CHUI, Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, Head of APSS and Co-Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology, emphasised that safeguarding youth mental health is a collective societal responsibility. As a supporting organisation, APSS is proud to have contributed to this significant event, aligning with its commitment to youth mental health and support.   Online coverage: Oriental Daily News - https://polyu.me/3DNaHD5 Line Today - https://polyu.me/3FuQX7T Oriental Daily: Link