News

BRE Research Team Won Silver Medal at International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva

Congratulations to Dr Roy WANG Dong and the other team members, Dr LI Rongyan, Ms ZOU Zhe, and Mr LI Fangzheng, our research colleagues and students! The passion of Roy, Ronyan, Zhe and Fangzheng for intelligent construction has been recognised with a silver medal at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, a prestigious annual event to innovation, held in April. Under the guidance of Prof. ZAYED Tarek, Prof. CHI Hung Lin, and Prof. Geoffrey SHEN, the winning project titled ‘Intelligent Construction Site Layout Design Platform’ is the world's first Generative AI-powered tool for optimizing crane and site layouts. This innovative platform streamlines decision-making, offering engineers customizable design options through local software, online platforms, and CAD plugins. By visualizing AI-generated solutions in real-time, it revolutionizes traditional site layout practices, enhancing safety, productivity, and sustainability in the construction industry.

New Executive Committee of BREDAA

The new Executive Committee of the Building and Real Estate Departmental Alumni Association (BREDAA) was successfully elected during the Extraordinary General Meeting last evening. The election was witnessed by a representative from the Alumni Affairs Office of PolyU. The Committee Members include Ir Cr Phyllis CHEN, Sr Carmen LAI, Ir Dr David KWOK, Ir Cr Amy SIU, Mr Marco LEUNG, Sr Fiona LEUNG, Ms Michele LUI, Sr Daniel Ng, Sr Westing TSOI and Cr Dr Angela YUEN. The new Executive Committee will count on the support of all BRE alumni. The BREDAA is dedicated to fostering strong connections among the members. By facilitating networking opportunities and the exchange of knowledge, it strengthens the bond between alumni and BRE, ensuring a vibrant and supportive community for years to come. More about the BREDAA Executive Committee: https://polyu.hk/AtUmF

Join Us for an Online Info Seminar on MSc in Intelligent Construction Programme on 12 April, 11:00am-12:00nn

Unlock a wealth of knowledge of digitalisation in the construction industry! The MSc in Intelligent Construction programme is a pioneering initiative in Hong Kong, and the first of its kind. The construction sector is rapidly evolving with the adoption of 'Construction 2.0', which emphasizes a technology-driven approach to achieve 'innovation', 'professionalisation', and 'revitalisation'. This programme is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals by equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the sector's evolving needs, with a strong focus on digitalisation and technology. It covers cutting-edge Intelligent Construction Technologies (ICT) and explores the potential of construction engineering managerial skills through both theoretical and applied ICT approaches. Sign up for Online Info Seminar (12 April, 11:00am-12:00nn) now (Deadline: 10 April): https://polyu.hk/HjjDy

Sign up for Online Info Seminar on Doctor of International Real Estate and Construction Programme on 12 April 2025, 11:00am-12:30pm

The HKSAR Government has introduced transformative policies re-shaping the construction and real estate sectors in recent years. These changes open up exciting opportunities for professionals ready to lead innovative and large-scale projects in Hong Kong and beyond. Our Doctor of International Real Estate and Construction Programme (DIREC) is designed to equip you with the essential expertise and skills needed to excel in this evolving landscape. By integrating comprehensive academic approaches with international practical applications, DIREC prepares you to address the demands of innovative and large-scale projects in Hong Kong and beyond. To embark on your journey to new heights, you are encouraged to attend our online Info Seminar on 12 April 2025, from 11:00am to 12:30pm. Sign up for DIREC Online Info Seminar now: https://polyu.hk/HQvbJ

Campus Visit by Shung Tak Catholic English College

A warm welcome was extended to the students and a teacher from Shung Tak Catholic English College in early April. During their visit, to provide them with a comprehensive overview of our undergraduate programmes, Mr. KONG Wai Kei, our Admission Officer, delivered an informative presentation. They were also captivated by the opportunity to engage with our advanced technologies, including the CAVE system and building information modelling. The interactive experiences offered them valuable insights into the innovative tools and methodologies that are shaping the future of construction and engineering. We hope their visit inspired curiosity and excitement about the possibilities within these fields.

Visit by Students of Youth Mentorship Scheme

Organised by the Building Healthy Kowloon City Association and supported by the Home Affairs Department of Kowloon City District Office, a group of secondary school students and mentors from the Youth Mentorship Scheme, paid a visit to BRE in April. They were warmly welcomed by Prof. CHI Hung Lin, Associate Professor of BRE. They explored our department's undergraduate programmes and cutting-edge facilities, including the CAVE system, motion simulator and 3D printing technology for construction. The hands-on experiences provided them with valuable insights into the exciting possibilities within the field of construction. We hope this visit inspired these young minds to pursue studies and careers in construction innovation and technology.

Mr Matthew YAU Shun Kit Selected as The Outstanding BRE Student 2024/25

Congratulations to Mr Matthew YAU Shun Kit, a BRE Surveying student, on being selected as the recipient of ‘The Outstanding Student Award of  the Department of Building and Real Estate’! In recognition of Matthew’s remarkable accomplishments and contributions, he was presented with the Award by Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, at the Presentation Ceremony in April. The event was marked with warm congratulations and enthusiastic applause from all in attendance. The PolyU Outstanding Student Awards aim to recognise full-time final-year students for their excellence in both academic and non-academic endeavours. The Awards are presented annually at department, faculty and university levels. Matthew said, “I am truly honoured to receive the Outstanding Student Award of BRE. This recognition inspires me to push beyond my current accomplishments, explore new opportunities and embrace greater challenges with unwavering determination.” He further shared, “One of my most transformative experiences was participating in the Chartered Institute of Building’s Global Student Challenge 2024.  Representing PolyU, our team won third place from among more than 40 teams worldwide for designing a reusable temporary housing solution for NGOs. The design can function as a home, school or medical centre in post-war and earthquake relief situations. This experience made me realise that I could contribute to improving the lives of those in need through my expertise and creativity, especially in our ever-changing world where conflicts and disasters are increasingly common.” For Matthew, being an outstanding student extends beyond academic success; it also involves giving back to the community.  Receiving this Award validates his dedication and inspires him to contribute even more to society in the next chapter of his life.    

DIREC Alumni Reunion Dinner

Recently, we have hosted an alumni reunion dinner for graduates of Doctor of International Real Estate and Construction (DIREC) programme. Attended by Prof. Michael YAM, Head of BRE, Prof. SUN Yi, Associate Head (Partnership), Prof. Daniel CHAN, DIREC Programme Leader and other BRE colleagues, this dinner provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect, celebrate their achievements, and reflect on their shared experiences. This programme has united a diverse group of professionals from finance, investment, construction, real estate, project management, and building management. We are incredibly proud of their academic and personal accomplishments and are eager to see how they will continue to make impact in the field of real estate and construction.

Inauguration Ceremony of the Centre for Infrastructure Delivery

We are thrilled to announce that the Inauguration Ceremony for the Centre for Infrastructure Delivery (CeIDE) was successfully held on 28 March. The event marked a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing sustainable and resilient infrastructure delivery. We were honoured to welcome Mr. Ricky LAU, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works) of Development Bureau, Prof. Xiang-dong LI, Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment and Prof. Meng NI, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment (Research) as our Guest of Honour. Esteemed guests included Mr. Joseph LO, JP, Head of the Project Strategy and Governance Office, as well as BRE Departmental Advisory Committee members Ms. Clarice YU Po Mei, JP, and Mr. LAI Kwok Hung, Sammy, along with our host, Prof. Michael YAM, Head of the Department of Building and Real Estate and Prof. Albert CHAN, M.H., Director of the CeIDE. The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Prof. Meng NI, followed by an inspiring opening address from Mr. Ricky LAU, JP. Prof. Albert CHAN then shared the vision and goals of the CeIDE, further illustrated through a showcase video. A highlight of the event was the Plaque Unveiling Ceremony. Guests were also invited to explore recent research projects along with a visit to the department facilities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating this important occasion. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future in infrastructure development! More about the Centre for Infrastructure Delivery: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/breceide/  

PolyU Ranked High in Subjects, ‘Architecture and Built Environment’ and ‘Civil and Structural Engineering’ in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

In the recent QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, PolyU has attained commendable results, with the subjects ‘Architecture and Built Environment’ and ‘Civil and Structural Engineering’ both securing the 17th position. This achievement underscores the University’s steadfast dedication to excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer. BRE is honoured to have contributed to these subject areas over the years.