APSS Lecturer Receives the Territory-Wide Competition Award for Two Consecutive Years

Following Dr Rodney CHU’s (Senior Lecturer of APSS) success last year, Mr. Vincent YEUNG, Lecturer of APSS, was selected as one of the ten winners of a territory-wide competition (香港教育工作者聯會 - 第五屆十大最「美」教師選舉), organised by the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers in 2026. The award presentation ceremony was held on 19 September 2026 to recognise educators’ dedication to teaching, commitment to student development, and contributions to the advancement of education in Hong Kong. In his remarks at the ceremony, Mr. YEUNG reflected on his approach to teaching and learning, which draws on creative storytelling and experiential learning in social sciences subjects. He highlighted the importance of extending learning beyond the classroom by encouraging students to engage directly with communities, listen to diverse lived experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of the people and social realities behind contemporary issues. Dr Kelly CHAN, Associate Director of IHERD and Head of Digital Transformation Division (DTD), and Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, Co-Director of PReCIT, ADoRCESGA, and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, attended the ceremony as representatives of PolyU. Read more: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/apss/others/latest-news-and-achievements-of-apss-sep-2025-issue/

APSS Empowers Inclusive Vocational Training through a Photovoice Study that Captures Participants’ Transformation

The PolyU-FHS Centre for Inclusive Innovation (the Centre) launched the “Inclusive 3D Printing Class for Students in Fortress Hill Methodist Secondary School (FHMSS)” on 14 September 2026. This rehabilitation technology and vocational training programme equips individuals with diverse needs with practical software proficiency, technical operational skills and innovative design perspective, enabling them to produce antimicrobial 3D-printed accessories. As part of the programme, APSS conducted a Photovoice workshop covering practical photography and composition skills for all participants. On 22 September 2026, students visited the Centre on the PolyU campus to attend technical training classes and focus group sessions. APSS facilitated these focus groups to promote student reflection, consolidate learning, and support emotional expression. Distinguished guests, including Mr Lap Ping SHUM (School Principal of FHMSS) and a delegation from Fu Hong Society led by Dr Chi Wood WOO (Chief Executive Officer of Fu Hong Society and Co-Director of the centre), attended the training to observe class activities and offer warm encouragement to the students. APSS plays a vital role in this initiative through its academic engagement with the Centre. In addition to supporting training delivery, an APSS research team led by Principal Investigator Prof. Eric CHUI (Head of APSS, Co-Director of PReCIT, ADoRCESGA and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology), Co-Investigators Prof. Daisy HUANG (Assistant Professor), and Dr Alpha LAM (Lecturer), conducted an evaluative study and a Photovoice study to capture the participants’ perspectives and systematically evaluate students’ developmental transformations throughout their learning journey. Through its active involvement, APSS remains dedicated to advancing impactful research, fostering inclusive education, and strengthening cross-sector partnerships to empower groups with diverse needs in the community.

APSS Extends Congratulations to Xiamen University and Strengthens Collaboration in Professional Doctor of Social Work Education

APSS has strengthened its academic ties with Xiamen University through key participation in the opening ceremony and thematic symposium marking the launch of Xiamen University’s inaugural Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programme. Held on 22 September 2026 in Xiamen, Fujian, the event, themed "Action, Knowledge, and Education in Social Work for a New Era", brought together leading scholars to advance high-level social work education and professional doctoral education programmes. During the opening ceremony, Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, Co-Director of PReCIT, ADoRCESGA and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, delivered an address underscoring the vital role and future trajectory of professional doctoral education in social work. Following the ceremony, Prof. Hok Bun KU, Professor of APSS, Director of the China and Global Development Network, and Programme Leader of the DSW Programme at APSS, presented a keynote lecture entitled "Born for the Profession: Theory and Practice of DSW". In the afternoon session, both Prof. CHUI and Prof. KU represented APSS in a roundtable dialogue alongside academics and leaders from Xiamen University and local charity organisations, exchanging insights on DSW educational strategies. This collaboration reaffirms APSS’s sustained commitment to fostering inter-university academic exchanges and advancing the development of high-quality social work education across the Chinese Mainland and the broader region. Through such strategic partnerships, APSS seeks to build robust educational networks that elevate social work professionalism, policy-relevant research, and doctoral training standards.

APSS Freshman Mr Sai Shing CHEUNG Represents Hong Kong, China at the 20th Asian Games

APSS is proud to announce that Mr Sai Shing CHEUNG, a freshman in the BA (Hons) Scheme in Applied Social Sciences, will represent Hong Kong, China in badminton at the 20th Asian Games. Admitted to PolyU under the Student-Athlete Learning Support and Admission (SALSA) Scheme as an elite athlete, Sai Shing exemplifies the pursuit of both sporting excellence and academic development. "I am deeply honoured and excited to have the opportunity to represent Hong Kong, China at the Asian Games,” said Sai Shing. “I will cherish this opportunity and look forward to learning from top-level players from different regions, gaining valuable experience, and continuing to improve through the competition. I would like to thank my school, coaches, family, and everyone who has supported me throughout the journey. I will give my very best and strive to achieve good results for Hong Kong, China." The SALSA Scheme supports outstanding athletes in pursuing higher education while competing at the highest levels of international sport. The APSS community extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to Sai Shing as he prepares to represent Hong Kong, China on the Asian Games stage.   Read more: https://polyu.me/4AjFAHw

New Chapter for APSS Research Postgraduate Students

On 8 September 2026, APSS held its Research Postgraduate (RPg) Student Orientation Day. The event welcomed 28 RPg students, including 18 new research postgraduates admitted for the 2026/27 academic year, providing them with essential academic support and opportunities to connect with faculty members and peers at the outset of their scholarly journeys. A warm welcome to all our new scholars. We are delighted to have you join the APSS family!

APSS Strengthens Social Work Education and Training Through Partnership with Indonesia’s Bandung Polytechnic of Social Welfare

On 28 August 2026, APSS and Bandung Polytechnic of Social Welfare (POLTEKESOS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic cooperation. The MoU was signed by Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, Co-Director of PReCIT, ADoRCESGA and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, and Dr Lina FAVOURITA, Deputy Director of POLTEKESOS. The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in social welfare, social work, and social policy; student mobility; faculty exchanges; joint academic and community engagement activities; and capacity-building for students, staff, and researchers. Following the signing ceremony, Prof. CHUI delivered a public lecture, “The Roles of Social Workers in Addressing Child and Adolescent Issues in Hong Kong,” highlighting cross-sector collaboration and the vital role of social workers in coordinating support, safeguarding rights, and building community connections.  Prof. Ben KU, Professor of APSS and Director of China and Global Development Network, presented “Social Work Students as Reconcilers in the Age of Disaster and Conflict,” introducing a framework for the social work of reconciliation and exploring how social work can help repair fractured relationships – between people, within themselves, and with nature – in a divided world. This partnership broadens PolyU’s opportunities for collaboration with Indonesia in education, research and community engagement, reinforcing its commitment to regional cooperation and knowledge advancement. Online coverage: POLTEKESOS: https://poltekesos.ac.id/berita/perkuat-jejaring-global-poltekesos-bandung-dan-polyu-jalin-kerja-sama-internasional CGDN: https://polyucgdn.com/article/513

The P.A.T.H.S. Programme receives six awards at iCAN 2026

Royce CHAN Lok Hei Sets Sights on Asian Games After World Championships

APSS proudly supports elite student-athlete and Hong Kong sabre fencer Mr Royce CHAN Lok Hei as he prepares for the 20th Asian Games in September 2026. Royce joined the APSS BA (Hons) in Social Policy and Social Entrepreneurship (SPSE) programme in 2022 through PolyU’s Student-Athlete Learning Support and Admission Scheme (SALSA), balancing rigorous training with academic excellence. He exemplifies resilience, self-discipline, and determination both on the piste and in his classroom. Royce recently competed at the World Fencing Championships 2026 in Hong Kong, delivering strong performances in high-stakes bouts and cementing his place as a leading figure in Hong Kong's men's sabre team. His career highlights include top-eight finishes at the National Games and the Hangzhou Asian Games, reflecting his steady rise in the sport. Reflecting on his World Championships experience, Royce described competing on home ground as unforgettable: “Hearing the local crowd cheer for every point gave me an incredible surge of energy. Balancing my studies with high-intensity training isn't easy, but the support from PolyU and APSS keeps me grounded. I’m taking everything I learned here to the Asian Games this September, ready to give my absolute all for Hong Kong!” As he readies for Asia’s premier’s sporting stage, the APSS community stands firmly behind him, wishing him success as he competes with composure and continues to bring pride to Hong Kong and PolyU! Online coverage:  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CMyya7wgZ/ HK01: https://www.am730.com.hk/article/1011908 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eGrUnsygAg  (FIE Men's Sabre World Cup 2026)

Tencent WeTech Academy and APSS Co-Organise WeTech AI Course to Empower Future Tech Leaders

Tencent WeTech Academy, Tencent Charity Foundation, APSS and the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) co-organised five “WeTech Academy x Strive & Rise Programme” – WeTech AI Course sessions from May to August 2026. Designed for mentees of the Strive & Rise Programme, this initiative comprised a three-session Basic AI Course (May–August 2026; up to 70 young participants per cohort) and a two-session Advanced AI Course (June 2026; up to 80 young participants per cohort). Every hands-on session, supported by Weixin Mini Programme and Tencent Cloud Training and Certification, was crafted to enhance participants’ understanding of artificial intelligence, build confidence in applying AI tools to real-world tasks, and inspire sustained interest in digital innovation. APSS is honoured to partner with Tencent on this meaningful initiative, and deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute our expertise to serve the community.

APSS Signed MoU with Faculty of Social and Political Sciences of Universitas Indonesia

On 27 August 2026, APSS and the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Universitas Indonesia (UI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an academic collaboration. The MoU was signed by Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, Co-Director of PReCIT, ADoRCESGA and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, and Prof. Evi FITRIANI, Dean of FISIP at UI. Prof. Ben KU, Professor of APSS and Director of China and Global Development Network and Dr Kan YIP, Assistant Director (Partnership and Development) of China and Global Development Network, were present at the signing ceremony to witness the milestone. Both institutes shared a commitment to exploring multi-faceted opportunities in areas of mutual academic interest. Future discussions will focus on student mobility across all degree levels, faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and co-authored publications. Additionally, the partnership encompasses shared educational resources, co-organised academic conferences and seminars, and professional development initiatives to foster impactful regional dialogue and advance higher education innovation across Asia.