APSS welcomed 18 secondary school students to the Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme (JRMP) on 28 March 2026, organised by the Global Engagement Office (GEO).
The PolyU JRMP offers senior secondary students (S.4–S.5 / Grade 10–12) a valuable opportunity to engage in real-world research under the mentorship of academic staff. This year, APSS introduced two projects, including AI for Academic Growth: Designing a Positive Youth Development–based Study Companion, led by Dr Jet Uy BUENCONSEJO and Exploring Gender Stereotypes: A Study of Attitudes and Interests, led by Dr Karen KWAN. Both are Research Assistant Professors in the Department.
These projects aim to cultivate students’ interest in research, strengthen their analytical skills, and provide them with early exposure to undergraduate academic life. The AI project explores the integration of positive youth development with artificial intelligence to support students’ social-emotional learning in Hong Kong. The gender stereotypes project has already sparked strong motivation and enthusiasm among participants to engage in research.
Representing both local and international schools across Hong Kong, the selected students will take part in research activities from April to August under the close guidance of Dr BUENCONSEJO and Dr KWAN. Through hands-on experience, the programme seeks to inspire and nurture the next generation of researchers.
