News

PolyU Jiangsu Alumni Network Established

On 6 July 2024, PolyU Jiangsu Alumni Network was officially established. Dr Lam Tai-fai, Chairman of PolyU Council, Professor Jin-Guang Teng, President, Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President, Professor Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation), Professor Li Xiangdong, Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment & Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology, Professor Jiannong Cao, Director of Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things & Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, Professor Lu Haitian, Director of Mainland Development, Dr Sean Xu, Assistant Director of Mainland Development, guests from the Jiangsu Provincial People's Government, mainland universities’ representatives, PolyU's sister Alumni Networks as well as Alumni Networks of other mainland universities, alumni and friends in Jiangsu, gathered to witness this memorable moment. The first General Meeting of Jiangsu Alumni Network was held, followed by the celebration dinner for the establishment. Dr Lam delivered a warm welcome speech, congratulating the establishment of Jiangsu Alumni Network. He hopes that Jiangsu Alumni Network could unite alumni in Jiangsu and give back to the alma mater. President Teng also took this opportunity to express that the establishment of Jiangsu Alumni Network would actively contribute to national development of PolyU. During the event, Dr Lou presented appointment letters to the first executive committee members of Jiangsu Alumni Network. Dr. Jiang Yisong, President of Jiangsu Alumni Network, shared the Network’s upcoming initiatives and goals. The event concluded successfully amidst laughter and joy.

OPAA Master Class 2024: Achieving Entrepreneurial Success

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association (OPAA) successfully hosted the "OPAA Master Class 2024: Achieving Entrepreneurial Success" on 27 June 2024, drawing broad participation from over 120 alumni, students, and staff members of the University. The event featured a speaker forum with two outstanding alumni sharing their entrepreneurial journeys. They were Dr the Hon. Johnny Ng Kit-chong, MH, JP, a Member of the Legislative Council and Founder and Chairman of Goldford Group; and Mr Fang Bing, Co-founder of Hai Robotics. Ir Dr Samson Tam Wai-ho, JP, President of the Association, moderated the panel discussion, which was joined by Ir Alfred Sit Wing-hang, GBS, JP, Director of the Association. Dr Ng recounted his career trajectory, highlighting the pivotal support he received from PolyU and his pioneering introduction of facial recognition technology to the market. He detailed his evolution from an engineer to a technology entrepreneur and eventually to a venture investor. He also shared two key factors for young entrepreneurs: the "zero starting point mindset", which advocates for innovation rather than resting on past achievements, and the importance of continually questioning one's motivations for starting a business. Mr Fang expressed his deep gratitude to PolyU for the entrepreneurship education and funding support that were instrumental in his journey. He recognised the challenges of starting a business, including its demanding and often solitary nature, but also pointed out the invaluable insights gained through the process. He further emphasised the importance of innovation and market awareness for start-up success, and encouraged young people to pursue their dreams with a thorough understanding of the environment and opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. The engaging presentations prompted a lively discussion session with the audience. In his concluding remarks, Dr Tam praised the speakers as exemplary entrepreneurs and role models for the younger generation. He also highlighted OPAA's commitment to providing guidance to young alumni and students aspiring to launch their own businesses, encouraging them to reach out to the Association for support when needed.  The event was a resounding success, inspiring the next generation of PolyU entrepreneurs with valuable insights and practical advice from the accomplished alumni. The engaging presentations, networking opportunities, and idea exchanges provided attendees with a meaningful platform to connect with like-minded individuals. For more photos and highlights of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.

Launch of New Alumni Portal

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new “Alumni Portal”. Replacing the former “My Profile & eCard” web page, the Alumni Portal offers a more convenient sign-in process and a refreshed user interface. Whenever you wish to update your profile or get your Alumni eCard through the system, you will have the option to sign in using Email and One-Time Password (OTP), in addition to using your Alumni NetID and social media accounts. The Alumni Portal is the most direct, upfront, and vital gateway for you to stay connected with your alma mater. Regularly updating your contact information ensures that you receive timely delivery of exclusive news, including event updates, alumni privileges, and networking opportunities! Sign in to Alumni Portal now

AlumNews (June 2024) – Festivities Heating Up

This early summer, PolyU brings you a series of surprises! A brand new Alumni Portal, PolyU Alumni Reunion Dinner 2024, the first board game competition for graduates, PolyU Design Show... AlumNews not only keeps you informed but also brings you the latest catering benefits!

Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2024

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2024 has kicked off since March! PolyU bestows the Award on distinguished graduates in recognition of their great distinction in their chosen fields, active support for the alma mater, as well as impactful contributions to the wider community. Since 2022, achievement categories have been established to recognise our alumni’s professional, entrepreneurial, scholarly, and community service achievements. Recognition is also given to outstanding young alumni. The Award is organised at Department, Faculty/School and University levels. The University also welcomes open nomination for University Award, starting from mid-June. The deadline for submitting nominations is 15 July 2024. Please visit here for details. We look forward to receiving your nominations!  

【Alumni Chess & Boardgames Club】Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium: Rummikub Friendly Match

On 8 June 2024, around 80 alumni and students gathered at PolyU for our inaugural board game competition, “Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium: Rummikub Friendly Match”. The atmosphere was vibrant as they fully immersed themselves in the competition, not only showcasing their intelligence and skills but also forging connections across generations, faculties, and industries. The competition was co-organised by the Alumni Affairs Office and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Student Affairs Office Chess and Boardgames Club, with the Hong Kong Dream Rider Education Association serving as the judge. Participants were first divided into two groups, namely the “Alumni Group” and the “Student Group”, each exhibiting impressive strategies, displaying intense concentration, and executing decisive moves! After multiple battles, Ms Elgin Lau Yuen-kan, Miss Ng Tsz-ching, and Miss Tang Ka-hei claimed the first, second, and third places in the Alumni Group, while the top three contestants in the Student Group were Miss Chung Wing-nam, Ms Chan Yuen-ching, and Mr Lin Chi-kit respectively. These six skilled individuals then advanced to the final round, competing fiercely and adding an extra layer of excitement as the outcome hung in the balance. Ultimately, Ms Elgin Lau Yuen-kan, one of our alumni, emerged as the overall champion. Congratulations! The Alumni Atrium resounded with applause and laughter during the award presentation. The winners were granted coveted trophies and Hotel ICON dining vouchers by Ms Maewoon Diana Liu, Director of Alumni Affairs. Additionally, many graduates joined our recently established board games interest club on the spot, looking forward to attending more gatherings to interact and exchange ideas with like-minded peers. The interest club is expanding, and alumni interested in joining are welcome to fill out this online registration form. For those eager to relive the excitement of the event, more photos and videos have been uploaded to our Facebook page!

Alumni Survey 2024

The survey is launched on 21 May 2024. We are going to launch the Alumni Survey 2024 for the Class of 2022, collecting feedback about their learning outcomes, inviting comments and suggestions on the programme and the respective Faculty/School, as well as soliciting views on alumni engagement initiatives. Invited graduates will receive an email from “PolyU Alumni Survey”, in which there is an URL directing respondents to the online questionnaire powered by Qualtrics. There may also be follow-up calls and messages from the Alumni Affairs Office in relation to this survey. As a token of our appreciation, respondents who have successfully completed the questionnaire will receive a coffee eVoucher, which are available on a first-come-first-served basis and while stock lasts. Don’t hesitate to make your voice heard and get your reward if you receive our invitation. Thank you in advance for supporting this University-wide exercise!

Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association Visits Customs and Excise Department

On 20 May 2024, the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association paid a visit to the Customs Headquarters Building in North Point. Led by President Ir Dr Samson Tam Wai-ho, JP, and coordinated by Director Ms Mary Yu Wah, the delegation comprised of over twenty participants, including Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees from previous years and their mentees, along with representatives from the Alumni Affairs Office of PolyU. They toured various facilities and had the privilege of joining Deputy Commissioner Mr Woo Wai-kwan for a dinner, elevating the experience to a truly unforgettable occasion. The visit commenced with an exploration of the exhibition gallery themed “The History and Development of Hong Kong Customs in the Past Century”. It provided a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of Hong Kong Customs and highlighted the department’s achievements in areas such as anti-narcotics investigations, consumer protection, and international cooperation. The group was also granted access to the indoor firing range, a facility typically closed to the public. Everyone was left in awe and actively participated in this exclusive first-hand encounter. The subsequent dinner presented a valuable opportunity for networking and exchange. As distinguished PolyU alumni from diverse generations and sectors, they engaged in lively discussions about industry trends, shared insights on opportunities and challenges, and generously imparted their valuable experiences to the young mentees. With laughter and cheerful conversations filling the atmosphere, the whole event concluded successfully. The Association conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Customs and Excise Department for their arrangements, which unveiled a treasure trove of invaluable insights and revelations.  

【Alumni Chess & Boardgames Club】Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium (Upgraded Experience 2)

On 20 May 2024, “Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium: Upgraded Experience 2” was successfully held, with more than 50 alumni and students gathering at PolyU to immerse themselves once again in the world of board games. For many first-time participants, our board game gathering provided a relaxing and enjoyable experience during their free time. It provided them with an opportunity to engage and compete with both new and old friends, offering a respite from the pressures of the day. As an upgraded version of the event, we not only introduced various new games but also focused on the exhilarating experience of playing Rummikub and Splendor. By sharing strategies and insights, many graduates who have already registered for “Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium: Rummikub Friendly Match” on 8 June were filled with confidence, eagerly anticipating this exclusive board game competition for PolyU alumni. Laughter filled the Alumni Atrium, and all participants enjoyed their board game journey very much. We are grateful for the support of everyone and look forward to seeing you at the friendly match next month! For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.

AlumNews (May 2024) – Enjoy Good Times with Great Minds

Looking back, do you recall how you navigated through the exam season in May? Perhaps you have already set aside the books by now, but PolyU continues to offer a multitude of activities that are intellectually stimulating, enjoyable and entertaining, inviting you to join with your dear friends! How could you possibly overlook the monthly specials in this issue of AlumNews?