Prof. Edward CHAN attended the RGC Award Presentation Ceremony 2023

The Research Grants Council (RGC) held an award presentation ceremony on 7 Nov 2022 to honour 87 academics from the eight University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities for their distinguished research achievements and significant contributions to the higher education sector. Prof. CHAN was awarded the RGC Senior Research Fellow Scheme for his project “Family Polyvictimization and Social Policy Responses in East Asian Societies”.  Prof. CHAN Ko-ling Edward, Professor of the Department of Applied Social Sciences, is the first in the globe to examine family poly-victimisation (FPV), which refers to the co-occurrence of at least three types of family violence. Further coverage was published in Nov 2022, elaborated on Prof Chan’s award-winning research in an interview with am730. He said that the study does not only aim at understanding the issues, but also helps society to prevent family violence and save lives. Online coverage on am730 - https://polyu.me/3TZN5Ns

APSS Celebrates the 85th Anniversary of PolyU with our Alumni!

On 22 November 2022, in celebration of the 85th Anniversary of PolyU, APSS successfully held the Alumni Reunion Luncheon at Hotel ICON. During the Luncheon, our APSS alumni and students, current staff, and former colleagues, shared many great conversations and old memories with one another.   It was a great honor to have Prof. David SHUM, Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, kick off the Luncheon by delivering his opening remarks. Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, welcomed all alumni, VIPs, student, staff and former colleagues to the event. He also presented the APSS Outstanding Alumni Award 2022 to Mr Charles CHAN, Executive Director of the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs Association of Hong Kong, and souvenirs to the Dean of FHSS and our alumni performer.   We are grateful that many former colleagues attended to share the joy of the momentous occasion. Prof. Angelina YUEN-TSANG, Honorary Professor of APSS, and Dr Samuel LEUNG, formerly Teaching Fellow, joined the event via Zoom. Mr Alexander KWAN, one of our esteemed former colleagues, attended in-person and greeted our alumni and guests on stage. While enjoying Chinese cuisine, attendees were treated to a fascinating magic show, masterfully performed by our alumni Mr Ivan CHONG who graduated with a BA in Social Policy and Administration, and received First Class Honors, in 2022. He currently runs a start-up company (Magia Entertraining Ltd). Many attendees left with smiles on their faces and cheerful spirits.   We look forward to meeting more alumni and former colleagues in the upcoming 50th Anniversary of the Department of Applied Social Sciences in 2023. Please stay tuned for our upcoming talks and events on the APSS website.   Watch the Luncheon highlighted video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3i5ia0--3Y&feature=youtu.be

IAA garnered Age-friendly Gold Star Award and Digital Connection Special Award

On 16 November, HKCSS presented the 2022 commendation for age-friendly measures (長者友善措施致意行動), and Institute of Active Ageing (IAA) received the Age-friendly Gold Star Award (長者友善金星獎) and the Digital Connection Special Award (數碼連繫特別獎). The Age-friendly Gold Star Award recognizes IAA for taking full account of the principles of age-friendliness and caring for the needs of the older adults in implementation of policies, measures, and services, as well as increasing community awareness of age-friendly communities. Additionally, IAA received the Digital Connection Special Award in recognition of its accomplishments throughout the epidemic in terms of offering services and programmes that assist the older adults in understanding how to utilize digital devices and benefit from digital technology in their daily life. The commendation for age-friendly measures, organized by HKCSS, aims to commend and encourage organizations and companies to introduce services, measures or products that adhere to the principles of age-friendliness, in order to raise public awareness of age-friendly communities. In recent years, IAA has actively promoted active ageing, in order to enhance the quality of life and address the needs of Hong Kong’s ageing population. IAA organizes innovative educational programmes for ageing population, including lifelong learning, community engagement and intergenerational collaboration. The programmes have drawn a large number of participants and received positive feedback. IAA will maintain research quality and innovation in key areas of ageing and family studies, interdisciplinary education related to gerontology, and evidence-based practices for the promotion of active ageing and age-friendly community.

Introducing APSS Research Centres to RPg and DSW Students

To promote the current engagements of APSS research centres to our Research Postgraduate (RPg) and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) students, the Department successfully organised two workshops on 28 September and 28 October 2022. The first workshop was opened by Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS and Co-Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) at PolyU. Prof. CHUI talked about the missions and activities of PReCIT, a university-level research centre focusing on policy-relevant insights on innovation and technologies. After that, Ms Kan YIP, Assistant Director (Partnership and Development) of China and Global Development Network, introduced the current research endeavours and collaborations at the centre. The second workshop introduced other prominent centres and institutes under the Department. Dr Xue BAI, Director of the Institute of Active Ageing, introduced the current research foci and research opportunities of the Institute. After that, Dr Yanto CHANDRA shared with the students the exciting research programmes and activities at the Centre for Social Policy and Social Entrepreneurship, of which he is the Director. The event concluded with a talk by Dr Herman LO, Co-Director of the Professional Practice and Assessment Centre, explaining his team’s recent projects and achievements. Both workshops were a big success, and they were attended enthusiastically by at least 60 students and staff members.

Luncheon Discussion with Student Ambassadors and Administrative Colleagues

APSS held a luncheon discussion with student ambassadors and administrative colleagues who have supported wholeheartedly the PolyU Undergraduate Info Day 2022. Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS; Dr Kong YAM and Dr Raymond TAM, Co-Programme Leaders of BA (Hons) Scheme in Applied Social Sciences; and Dr Rita CHEUNG, Assistant Programme Leader of BA (Hons) in Social Work, attended the luncheon on behalf of the department. They received various positive comments and constructive suggestions from the groups for improving the Info Day next year. For example, having a lecture theatre with a larger seating capacity, larger signages for easier campus navigation, and a consultation room in the live-streams.   Our heartfelt thanks to all of the student ambassadors and administrative colleagues for their contribution and continued support of APSS events!

APSS Scholarship Awardees: Gaining Lifelong Experiences and Knowledge for a Better Society

Fifteen students received the APSS Scholarship for Outstanding Students – Taught Postgraduate Programme (the Scholarship) in recognition of their stellar academic performance and solid commitment to the betterment of society. The scholarship offers HK$5,000 to selected current and final year self-financed taught postgraduate students who have completed half of the required credits of their programmes and attained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above at the end of the academic year. Congratulations to the awardees for their achievement! Let’s hear what they said from the bottom of their hearts:     LAM Wai Ka (Doctor of Social Work) “Participating in the DSW programme enriches my knowledge related to the social work profession and facilitates the development of my identities as a social work practitioner, educator, and researcher. But more importantly, it changes my ways of apprehending the complexity of human experience and human world. I am really thankful for being awarded, as it unquestionably motivates me to grow further and contribute to society.”   CHUNG Manyee Sandy (Master of Arts in Guidance and Counselling) “The learning journey at PolyU has empowered me not only with knowledge and skills but also has broadened my world with new perspectives and discoveries. I especially enjoy the community of professors, staff and classmates who make the learning process worthwhile and fun!”   LAL Indra (Master of Arts in Guidance and Counselling) “Even though I entered the programme looking to attain my master’s degree, I acquired something of far greater value. I gained friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and knowledge from truly remarkable professors. Through practicum supervision, I gained an appreciation for “leading from one step behind”. I will forever be grateful to PolyU for this amazing experience and am deeply honored to receive the APSS scholarship for outstanding students.”   SIU Wing Sze (Master of Arts in Guidance and Counselling) “This year of study in the MAGC programme has been eye-opening and fulfilling. The theories and skills learnt from classes and group assignments inspire reflections and generate new perspectives on my life and relationship with others. I also enjoy the friendship with fellow classmates and participating in extra-curricular activities and workshops.”   KWAN Shiu Yin (Master of Applied Psychology) “Studying at PolyU was a rewarding experience. I was able to enhance my knowledge in psychology and apply them in real-world settings through the practicum. It is my honour to be awarded the scholarship, and this would certainly motivate me to grow and contribute even more to society with my knowledge.”   NG Hiu Yi Maggie (Master of Applied Psychology (Diverse Learning Needs)) “I am sincerely honoured to be selected as the recipient of the Scholarship. Studying the Master of Applied Psychology (Diverse Learning Needs) is such a fruitful experience. I am able to broaden my horizon in both knowledge and practicum aspects. The programme allows us to learn with great autonomy as well.”   SO Kwan Wah Maegan (Master of Applied Psychology (Diverse Learning Needs)) “I am sincerely honoured to be selected as a recipient of the Scholarship. The learning experience in the MAP-DLN programme has been fruitful and inspirational. It has equipped me to incorporate multidisciplinary strategies in order to respond to individuals with diverse learning needs.”   LAU Ka Ho (Master of Arts in School and Community Psychology) “Studying at APSS equipped me with extensive knowledge in diversified aspects of psychology, ranging from historical foundations to evidence-based interventions. Being awarded the Scholarship is not entirely the outcome of my hard work. Without the unreserved guidance and support from professional teachers at PolyU, I could not have gone through this challenging but fruitful journey.”     MAK Man Wai (Master of Arts in School and Community Psychology) “It is a huge honour for me to receive the Scholarship. The way to this award was no child’s play. The award has caused me to reflect further on how I can apply psychology in work and life. Studying at PolyU is an incredible and life-changing learning experience which enriched my life immensely by connecting concepts and life. Thank you very much.”     WONG Lai Lai (Master of Arts in School and Community Psychology) “My learning experiences at PolyU have been meaningful and valuable. The programme allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of psychology and explore my interests in various fields of the discipline. During my studies, I had the opportunity to reflect upon my life and consider my true career interests. It is beyond my expectations to be awarded the scholarship. I hope to express my heartfelt gratitude for all the help I have received from my supportive professors, lecturers, and lovely classmates.”     LEUNG Nok Hang (Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development)   “I am sincerely honoured to be one of the recipients of the Scholarship. It is a big encouragement to my effort in my further education as a part-time student. I am also grateful to the professional lecturers whose enthusiasm for teaching fosters interaction in the class. I believe the knowledge and skills equipped have enriched our understanding of local and global policy issues.”     MIAO Xinyu (Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development) “It’s my honour to receive this award. My year at PolyU has been the most enjoyable and rewarding year of my life. PolyU has a beautiful campus, excellent facilities, and a great variety of canteen food. In my free time, I often read and study in the comfortable and spacious library of PolyU. I would also like to thank the teachers at APSS for their knowledge and kindness. I always gain a lot of knowledge and life experiences from my interactions with them.”   PAN Xinyi (Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development) “Thanks to PolyU for giving me a fabulous experience during my studies. The beautiful red brick campus, friendly staff and perfect educational facilities make me enjoy every moment of my study here. I gained not only a lot of advanced professional knowledge but really felt the "pragmatic" philosophy of PolyU. I always believe that no effort is made for nothing! As long as having responsibility and planning, we can all study hard for our dream and will eventually receive what we deserve. Doubtlessly, this award would also give me more motivation to work harder to improve myself in the future. I would apply all I have learned in PolyU to benefit society!”     CHAN Po Lam (Master of Arts in Social Work (Family-centred Practice and Family Therapy)) “Studying at PolyU is a fruitful journey. It allows me to have a better understanding of individuals, family and myself. It helps me build the capacity to connect their needs and sufferings. It provides me with a platform to meet many supportive friends and teachers. Thank you, APSS, for the award. I am truly grateful to receive it. It is a great encouragement.”   CHAN Shun Lai Carol (Master of Arts in Social Work (Family-centred Practice and Family Therapy)) “I have been constantly amazed by the unreserved sharing of experiences and real cases from teachers excelling in different scopes and have enjoyed the open discussion and challenges in class with students from all walks of life who have co-constructed and enriched the learning experiences and outcomes. I was surprised to receive the award which really belongs to the whole class who worked hard together amidst a busy schedule and made the year a fruitful and enjoyable journey.”  

Implementing Mindfulness in Schools

APSS has received a total of HK$1.33 million in donations from the Hong Kong Buddhist Association Primary School Head Council to implement a school-based mindfulness curriculum in eight primary schools and mindfulness groups for students with special educational needs. The principal investigator Dr Herman LO, Associate Professor of APSS, attended the cheque presentation ceremony on 19 August 2022. Also in attendance at the event were the three project donors, including The Ling Wan Temple Foundation Ltd., The Sunny Lay Buddhists, and The Vineyard.   The first batch of the teacher training was successfully launched on 7 October 2022, at the Professional Practice and Assessment Centre (PPAC), where 20 primary school teachers took part in the training session delivered by Ms Angie Bucu from the International Academy of Mindful Teaching. Dr LO and his team projected that by the end of the 2022/23 school year, more than 700 P.1 and P.3 students, and 100 students with special educational needs, would benefit from the new curriculum.   Aside from fulfilling its social missions, this project also entails a research study to investigate student outcomes and assess capacity-building for implementing a school-based mindfulness curriculum.   Dr LO expects this project can generate evidence and knowledge about how mindfulness-based programme can be further promoted in the education sector in Hong Kong and elsewhere.

Undergraduate Info Day 2022 – FULL HOUSE!

PolyU Undergraduate Info Day was successfully held on 8 October 2022. Our staff were very grateful with the overwhelming interest in our BA (Hons) Scheme in Applied Social Sciences (JS3250). This Scheme offers two major awards: BA (Hons) in Social Work; or BA (Hons) in Social Policy and Social Entrepreneurship   2023 JUPAS application for admission commences now until 7 Dec 2022. DSE students can visit JUPAS website for more information while non-JUPAS applicant can visit PolyU eAdmission platform for more detail.   APSS Information Seminars were well received by prospective students and their parents. They were keen on learning how our majors, including Social Work and Social Policy and Social Entrepreneurship, would equip students with the essential knowledge, values and skills needed for social work and human services professionals.   

Continued Contribution and Encouragement from Alumni

APSS successfully held the Alumni and CEO Forum on 3 October 2022. In the Forum, our alumni, who are CEOs and hold senior management positions in various NGOs, shared many great conversations with one another and bonded with several APSS colleagues.   The Forum began with an opening remark delivered by Prof. David SHUM, Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. Prof. Angelina YUEN-TSANG, Honorary Professor of APSS, shared her views on how APSS has helped connect social work practitioners and educators across the world as part of the departmental internationalization and social responsibility strategies. Prof. Yuk Chung CHAN, Honorary Guest of APSS, discussed how practice research can bring practitioners and researchers together in order to co-develop professional knowledge and wisdom. Apart from introducing various APSS undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to our alumni, Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS, concluded, “A significant part of our success story is the continued contribution and encouragement from alumni. Your support is a driving force that we - as a department - sincerely cherish.”   APSS looks forward to collaborating and joining hands with more NGOs that share our vision and mission of providing enriching learning opportunities for students.

Welcoming APSS Inbound Exchange Students – Introducing Mid-Autumn Festival

APSS held a gathering for APSS inbound exchange students of Semester One 2022/23 on 9 September 2022. They had the chance to network and engage in cultural exchange with our local and mainland students. The exchange students also shared their experiences with living and studying in Hong Kong so far while their fellow local students offered tips to make the most of their stay in Hong Kong. The event took place the day before Mid-Autumn Festival, so traditional lanterns and mooncakes were presented to our exchange students to have a taste of the festive season.