News

AlumNews (June 2025) – A Fruitful Summer Ahead

When we announced the “PolyU Alumni Sports and Wellness Day” last month, excitement was in the air among our alumni! The wait is almost over – this special edition of AlumNews is your exclusive guide to all the action-packed programmes happening on the big day. Of course, be sure not to miss other exciting updates from your alma mater!

【Alumni Foodie Club】Taste Together ‧ District Flavors: Tai Hang Fire Dragon Culture & Dining Experience

On 18 June 2025, the inaugural event of the “Taste Together ‧ District Flavors” series was a great success, bringing together around 50 alumni to explore the vibrant culture of Tai Hang. Due to the high turnout, participants were divided into two groups: one toured the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre, while the other explored the neighbourhood's historic buildings. At the Heritage Centre, a knowledgeable docent shared captivating stories about the legendary Fire Dragon Dance, including its origins during the Mid-Autumn Festival and the intricate process of crafting the dragon. Everyone left with a deeper appreciation for Tai Hang's unique blend of tradition and urban renewal. The evening continued at the Hong Kong Housing Society’s Staff Recreation Club, where alumni enjoyed a specially curated Chinese banquet. The delicious dishes provided the perfect setting for reconnecting with old friends and forging new connections. Adding to the warmth of the evening was the presence of Prof. Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU, whose friendly conversations enriched the gathering. The event also sparked excitement for future activities, with members of the Foodie Club suggesting themes such as Chinese barbecue nights, seafood feasts, and a Mid-Autumn return to watch the Fire Dragon Dance live. As the event concluded, participants expressed their enthusiasm in WhatsApp groups: "The Tai Hang tour plus dinner was amazing! Perfect event!" "So full and happy to meet so many fellow alumni! Great organisation!" "Huge thanks to the organisers! We loved every moment!" Where will our next destination be? Stay tuned for more culinary adventures across Hong Kong's diverse neighbourhoods!

【Alumni Football Club】Alumni Football Team Assembly!

The “Alumni Football Team Assembly” held on 15 June 2025 was a resounding success, despite Strong Wind Signal No. 3. The rainy weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of our participating alumni, who returned to the campus field to showcase their love for football. The Club was especially delighted to welcome two new teams this time, adding to the excitement and camaraderie of the day. Everyone enjoyed the spirited matches and the lively atmosphere filled with fun and friendly exchanges. All attending teams will be joining the Futsal Match scheduled for the “Alumni Sports and Wellness Day” on 26 July 2025. We encourage alumni to come and cheer for these teams and explore the various sports activities offered on campus throughout the event! The Alumni Football Club will continue to organise regular meetings and games to strengthen connections among alumni football enthusiasts and celebrate their shared passion. These events provide opportunities for members to exchange ideas and strategies through friendly games. All alumni with a love for this sport are warmly invited to join the Club!  

【Alumni Table Tennis Club】Spin & Social Friday

The Alumni Table Tennis Club held two sessions of “Spin & Social Friday” on 11 April and 13 June 2025, bringing together over 40 alumni from various generations and fields who share a passion for table tennis. They gathered on campus to connect and enjoy spirited games on Friday evenings. Looking ahead, PolyU will organise the “Alumni Sports and Wellness Day” on 26 July 2025 (Saturday), featuring friendly table tennis matches. Click here for details – all alumni are welcome to hone their skills and take on new challenges!

【PolyU Former Staff Network】“Understanding and Managing Common Age-Related Eye Problems” Talk

On 10 June 2025, more than 20 PolyU former staff members gathered on campus for the talk, “Understanding and Managing Common Age-Related Eye Problems”. Ms Lena Li, a PolyU alumna and optometrist at the University’s Optometry Clinic, shared her expertise on maintaining lifelong visual health.  The audience listened attentively as Ms Li discussed age-related eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. She translated complex medical concepts into practical, actionable tips. Through vivid case studies, participants learned to identify early warning signs and adopt daily protective strategies. The session resonated deeply, equipping attendees with evidence-based methods and lifestyle advice to help slow vision changes. After the talk, many participants stayed to interact further. They not only exchanged personal tips on eye care but also joyfully reconnected with fellow former staff members. Stay connected with the PolyU Former Staff Network for upcoming initiatives and future gatherings!

【Alumni Badminton Club】Mix, Smash & Mingle: Alumni Badminton Social Play

The Alumni Badminton Club held two sessions of “Mix, Smash & Mingle: Alumni Badminton Social Play” on 5 April and 7 June 2025, bringing together around 40 alumni on campus to enjoy the sport and connect through their shared love of badminton.  Alumni from diverse graduation years, fields, and backgrounds enthusiastically participated in lively, friendly matches while exchanging ideas about future Club events. They enjoyed the spirited games, rekindled old friendships, and built new connections. PolyU will organise the “Alumni Sports and Wellness Day” on 26 July 2025 (Saturday), featuring friendly badminton matches. Please click here for details.

Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2025

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2025 has kicked off this month! PolyU bestows the Award on distinguished graduates in recognition of their great distinction in their chosen fields, dedicated support to their alma mater, as well as impactful contributions to the wider community. The Award is organised at Department, Faculty / School, and University levels.  In addition to nominations from Faculties and Schools, the University Award also welcomes open nomination. The deadline for submitting nominations is 15 August 2025. Please visit here for details. We look forward to receiving your nominations!

【Alumni Tea Appreciation Club】Chinese Tea — Savour and Speak

The inaugural event of the Alumni Tea Appreciation Club, “Chinese Tea — Savour and Speak”, was organised on 28 May 2025. Participants embarked on a sensory journey, exploring the art of Chinese tea under the guidance of esteemed alumnus Dr Bacon Ng, a renowned Chinese tea expert and registered occupational therapist. Attendees enjoyed a live tea demonstration and tasting of various exquisite teas, including the rare and seasonal yellow tea, allowing them to experience the diverse flavours of Chinese tea. Dr Ng’s captivating presentation, which blended tea culture with rehabilitation sciences, resonated with the participating alumni. The session buzzed with interaction as the alumni tea enthusiasts eagerly posed questions and exchanged ideas with Dr Ng. Several participants also took the opportunity to engage in hands-on brewing, further immersing themselves in the craft. After the event, many attendees stayed at the Alumni Atrium, eager to continue their discussions with Dr Ng and delve deeper into the artistry of tea appreciation. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and a shared love for this tradition, and all looked forward to future events organised by the Alumni Tea Appreciation Club.

【Alumni Culture and Heritage Tours Club】Lamma Scenic Hike

The Alumni Culture and Heritage Tours Club organised the “Lamma Scenic Hike” on 24 May 2025. Around 30 alumni gathered at Central Ferry Piers in the morning and set off for Sok Kwu Wan on Lamma Island to explore the scenic Ling Kok Shan and its historical rock formations. Among the popular trails, the Club specifically selected this route, which is renowned for its stunning views of the island’s distinctive coastline. After three hours of hiking, some alumni were eager to extend their outing and continued to explore Lamma Island with new friends they met. Everyone expressed satisfaction and looked forward to discovering more great places with club members in the future. During this group outing, representatives from the Alumni Affairs Office also took the opportunity to invite participants to join the alumni associations of their disciplines and to save the date for the upcoming Alumni Sports and Wellness Day on 26 July, encouraging them to stay connected with their alma mater.

【Alumni Chess & Boardgames Club x Alumni Singing Club】Alumni Nights of Singing and Board Games

The second regular gathering, “Alumni Night of Singing and Board Games”, jointly hosted by the Alumni Chess & Boardgames Club and the Alumni Singing Club, took place successfully on 22 May 2025. Over 50 alumni and students gathered at the Alumni Atrium for an evening filled with strategic games and musical enjoyment. Both newcomers and returning friends immersed themselves in the fascinating world of board games and songs. First-time players particularly appreciated learning strategies from experienced members of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Student Affairs Office Chess and Boardgames Club. The karaoke session was equally impressive, with singing enthusiasts showcasing their vocal talents by performing timeless classics that filled the venue with beautiful melodies. As the gathering came to a close, participants continued to shar their appreciation in WhatsApp groups: "The student instructors were so helpful – thank you for teaching us!" "Had so much fun today, thanks everyone!" "Splendor was absolutely fantastic!" "We played until the very end to determine the winner 😏" "Another wonderful singing experience!" "Grateful for the excellent venue, food and drink arrangements! Amazing team 👏" "Special thanks to Terence and Tommy (committee members of the students' board games club) for their patient guidance - we'd never have mastered CATAN without you!" More event highlights are available on our Facebook and Instagram. The next gathering is on 26 June – see you there!