News

BDSIS Engages Careers Teachers Through Networking Session at PolyU

The College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) successfully hosted the BDSIS Networking Session on 28 October 2026 at PolyU's Global Student Hub. The event brought together secondary school vice principals and careers teachers and to learn more about PolyU's flagship programme, the Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS), and the unique opportunities offered through interdisciplinary education. The event commenced with welcoming remarks by Prof. Daniel Shek, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of CUS, who shared the vision of BDSIS and highlighted the growing importance of interdisciplinary learning in preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Prof. Alan Lau, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS, then introduced the programme's distinctive features, including its flexible curriculum structure, personalised learning pathways, Four-tier Academic Advising System, admissions arrangements, and graduation requirements. During the networking session, participants engaged in fruitful discussions with the professors and programme team on curriculum design, student development, and admissions matters. They also explored the AI-powered Personalised 4-Year BDSIS Curriculum Planner, which demonstrates how students can design customised interdisciplinary study plans based on their interests, aspirations, and career goals. The College would like to thank all school representatives for their support and engagement. We look forward to strengthening our collaboration with schools and empowering future-ready talents through innovative interdisciplinary education.

Returning to Where It All Began: Inspiring Future-Ready Minds Through Interdisciplinary Learning

The College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) recently visited Ying Wa College to introduce PolyU's flagship Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS). The visit was led by Prof. Daniel Shek, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of CUS, who made a special return to his alma mater, alongside Prof. Alan Lau, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS. During the sharing session, Prof. Shek and Prof. Lau introduced the distinctive features of BDSIS and shared insights into interdisciplinary learning, future-ready education, and the importance of pursuing one's passions and strengths in an ever-changing world. They encouraged students to remain curious, embrace new opportunities, and explore diverse learning pathways in preparation for future challenges and opportunities. In addition to engaging with students, Prof. Shek and Prof. Lau met with Principal Dion Chen to exchange views on the latest developments in education and youth development. CUS extends its sincere appreciation to the management, teachers, and students of Ying Wa College for their warm hospitality and enthusiastic participation. We look forward to continuing our engagement with secondary schools and supporting students in exploring innovative and personalised pathways for learning and future development.

BDSIS Showcases Interdisciplinary Learning Opportunities at PolyU Info Day 2026

PolyU Info Day 2026, which attracted over 49,000 visitors, provided an excellent platform for the Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS) to engage prospective students, parents and educators through the BDSIS Info Booth, Programme Seminars and One-to-One Consultation Sessions. Throughout the event, visitors learned more about BDSIS's flexible curriculum structure, personalised learning pathways, academic advising system, undergraduate research opportunities and global learning experiences. Prof. Daniel Shek, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS), together with College members and student ambassadors, engaged with visitors and shared how BDSIS empowers students to design their own interdisciplinary learning journeys. A highlight of the Info Booth was the personalised BDSIS Card activity, which encouraged participants to explore interdisciplinary study possibilities based on their academic interests and aspirations. The programme seminars, delivered by Prof. Alan Lau, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS, introduced the distinctive features of BDSIS, including personalised curriculum planning, academic advising, research opportunities, overseas exchange and career development support. Visitors also joined One-to-One Consultation Sessions to explore personalised study pathways through interdisciplinary learning at PolyU. Each participant received an AI generated, personalised four-year study plan to help them plan their BDSIS studies.  We would like to thank all visitors for their enthusiastic participation and look forward to welcoming a new generation of future-ready learners to the BDSIS community.  

Prof. Daniel Shek Named 2026 Highly Ranked Scholar by ScholarGPS

Prof. Daniel T.L. Shek, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies has been named a 2026 Highly Ranked Scholar (Lifetime) by ScholarGPS in recognition of his exceptional productivity, noteworthy impact and quality of scholarly work. He was ranked top 0.05% out of 30 million scholars worldwide in different fields: all fields of scholarly endeavours, social sciences, social work, Chinese kinship, adolescence, longitudinal study, and mainland China, well-being and COVD-19. Notably, Prof. Shek’s work in social work and Chinese kinship was ranked No. 1 globally in this year’s evaluation. His achievements underscore his significant influence and leadership in academia, as well as his dedication to advancing knowledge and making a lasting impact on society.

BDSIS Personal Academic Mentors (PAMs) Welcome Gathering 2026

The Bachelor’s Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS) Personal Academic Mentors (PAMs) Welcome Gathering 2026, organised by the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS), was successfully held on 29 and 30 September 2026. The gathering brought together dedicated PAMs from various academic departments to exchange insights, share mentoring experiences, and strengthen the support network for BDSIS students. Prof. Daniel T.L. SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of CUS, kicked off the gathering by warmly welcoming the PAMs and acknowledging their pivotal role in student development. Prof. Shek also presented key programme updates, highlighted students’ progress in interdisciplinary learning, and recapped recent student milestones. Following this, Prof. Alan P.T. LAU, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS, shared the educational philosophy underpinning the interdisciplinary programme, as well as the unique learning aspirations of the new BDSIS cohort. A special highlight of the gathering was a mentorship video showcase featuring practical mentoring stories and reflections from two PAM–student pairs: Prof. Chih-yung WEN (AAE) and student NIU Zhaoran, as well as Prof. XIAO Zhonghua (AMA) and student HUANG Shiqi. The sharing offered valuable perspectives on guiding BDSIS students through their academic exploration and personal growth. The gathering also provided a fruitful platform for networking and dynamic exchanges, where PAMs discussed effective advising practices and explored innovative ways to enrich students’ interdisciplinary learning pathways. Personal Academic Mentors play a pivotal role in guiding students along their unique learning journeys. CUS extends its sincere appreciation to all PAMs for their dedication, passion, and continuous commitment to nurturing our students into future-ready leaders, and looks forward to further collaboration in the academic year ahead.

BDSIS Mid-Autumn Festival Student Gathering 2026

The Bachelor’s Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS) Mid-Autumn Festival Student Gathering, organised by the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS), was successfully held on 25 September 2026, bringing together Year 1 and Year 2 students for the sharing, networking and festive celebration. The gathering commenced with welcoming remarks by Prof. Daniel T.L. SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of CUS, followed by an introduction of the Year 1 cohort by Prof. Alan P.T. LAU, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS. Students from both cohorts also participated in a group photo session, fostering a stronger sense of community within the programme. During the student sharing session, Year 2 students HOU Mingtong and CAI Enguang shared their university experiences and personal learning journeys. The Undergraduate Studies Support Team also introduced the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS), encouraging students to explore research and experiential learning opportunities. Students then enjoyed lunch and networking activities, followed by interactive games. These activities created a lively atmosphere and provided opportunities for students to connect and learn more about one another. The gathering concluded with a mingling session.   Through meaningful interactions and festive activities, the event strengthened connections among BDSIS students and enhanced their sense of belonging to the BDSIS community. CUS looks forward to supporting students through more engagement activities in the future.  

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

The P.A.T.H.S. Programme, led by Prof. Daniel SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme), Dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies, Chair Professor of Applied Social Sciences, and Li and Fung Endowed Professor in Service Leadership Education at PolyU, received a Gold Medal, the Croatian Inventors Network (SHI) Special Award, and the Top 20 Best Invention Award at the International Invention and Innovation Competition (iCAN 2026) event organised by the Toronto International Society of Innovation and Advanced Skills (TISIAS). The awards were selected from 763 entries submitted by participants from 55 countries and regions. The project team from the Department of Applied Social Sciences consists of Prof. Daniel SHEK (Team Leader), Prof. Xiaoqin ZHU (Deputy Team Leader), Prof. Xiang LI, Prof. Janet LEUNG, and Prof. Diya DOU. The Indonesian version of the P.A.T.H.S. Programme also led by Prof. Shek and developed in collaboration with colleagues from Malaysia, Canada, Indonesia, and the Philippines, also achieved remarkable success at the same event. It received a Gold Medal, the Korea University Invention Association (KUIA) Special Award, and the Top 10 Best Invention Award from the same pool of international entries. These achievements underscore the growing international recognition of the P.A.T.H.S. Programme and its impact on promoting youth development across diverse cultural contexts. To date, the P.A.T.H.S. Programme has received a total of 20 international awards.

CUS Engages New Students at Orientation Showcase 2026

The College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) took part in the Orientation Showcase 2026 on 1 September at the Shaw Sports Complex, as part of PolyU Student Orientation. With over 45 booths from administrative units, student organisations, and campus partners, the event gave freshmen a chance to explore university life and learn about the resources and support services available at PolyU.” At the CUS booth, staff members introduced students to the University's learning opportunities and undergraduate support initiatives. Highlights included the Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS), the Minor in Research and Innovation Programme, the Minor in Service-Learning for Socially Responsible Leadership, General University Requirements (GUR), National Education (NE), non-local Co-curricular Activities Requirement (CAR) learning experiences, and the support services provided by the Undergraduate Studies Support Team (USST). The booth attracted over 800 students throughout the day. Through engaging conversations with CUS staff, students learned more about the University's diverse learning opportunities, academic support services, and development pathways, gaining valuable insights into how they can make the most of their PolyU experience and achieve their academic aspirations. To further enhance student engagement, CUS organised a fun and interactive pitch-pot game, which encouraged participants to learn more about the College's programmes and services in an enjoyable and memorable way. The activity drew enthusiastic participation and contributed to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere at the booth. Students who participated in the game also received specially prepared souvenirs, which were warmly welcomed by visitors. The event served as a valuable platform for CUS to connect with incoming students, share useful information, and support their successful transition into university life. CUS looks forward to accompanying students throughout their time at PolyU, helping them explore new possibilities, realise their potential, and make the most of the rich learning opportunities and experiences available at the University.  

BDSIS Orientation 2026: Embarking on an Interdisciplinary Journey

The College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully held the Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS) Orientation Session on 28 August 2026, welcoming the new cohort of students and introducing them to the programme's interdisciplinary learning opportunities, academic support, and student development resources. The session began with a welcome address by Prof. Daniel T.L. SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) and Dean of CUS, who highlighted the College's vision and the growing importance of interdisciplinary education and research in addressing complex global challenges. Through examples from different disciplinary areas and impactful research projects, he demonstrated how interdisciplinary collaboration can generate innovative solutions and make a positive impact on society. Prof. Alan P. T. LAU, Associate Dean of CUS and Programme Leader of BDSIS, then introduced the distinctive features of the programme, including its flexible and personalised curriculum, interdisciplinary learning pathways, and dedicated academic mentoring system. He also shared the wide range of learning and development opportunities available to BDSIS students throughout their studies. The orientation also featured a session by WANG Wenyi, a Year 2 BDSIS student, who shared her experiences in the programme for BDSIS students. She introduced the support she had received from her Personal Academic Mentor (PAM) and offered practical advice on subject registration and academic planning. Her sharing provided valuable insights into student life and the learning opportunities available through BDSIS. The event concluded with a networking session, allowing students to connect with faculty members, staff, and fellow classmates. The gathering provided a valuable opportunity for the new cohort to build friendships and begin their BDSIS journey within a supportive learning community. We extend a warm welcome to the 2026/27 BDSIS Cohort and look forward to supporting students throughout their academic journey.

A Summer of Interdisciplinary Exploration: BDSIS Showcased at PolyU Summer Institute 2026

The PolyU Summer Institute 2026, hosted by the Global Engagement Office, concluded successfully at the end of July, bringing together approximately 250 high school students from around the world for an enriching experience of learning, cultural exchange, and global engagement. As part of the closing session on 31 July, Prof. Alan P.T. LAU, Associate Dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) and Programme Leader of the Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS), shared with participants the value of interdisciplinary education in addressing today's complex challenges. He encouraged students to embrace curiosity, innovation, and collaboration in their academic and professional journeys. Prof. LAU also shared his insights on the future of university education in the AI era, highlighting the growing importance of interdisciplinary learning in an increasingly interconnected world. He emphasised that students need to integrate knowledge across disciplines and develop an adaptable mindset to address future challenges.  He also introduced BDSIS, which offers a flexible and personalised curriculum, academic mentoring, and experiential learning opportunities, reflecting PolyU's commitment to student-centred and AI-enabled education. We are delighted to have been part of this inspiring summer programme and look forward to welcoming more talented students from around the world to the PolyU community in the future.