Media Releases

PolyU and Harbin Institute of Technology Launch Shenzhen International School of Design and Future Design Joint Research Centre

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) inaugurated the Harbin Institute of Technology–The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen International School of Design (SISD) and launched the Future Design Joint Research Centre (the Centre) on 24 September, marking a new milestone in the two universities’ collaboration in education, research and innovation. The ceremony was held at HIT’s Shenzhen campus and officiated by Academician Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President, and Academician Jiecai HAN, President of the Harbin Institute of Technology. Bringing together PolyU’s internationally recognised expertise in design education and research and HIT’s strengths in engineering and technology, SISD has been established with the approval of the Ministry of Education and aims to cultivate future talent equipped with innovative thinking, technological literacy and a broad cross-disciplinary outlook. Academician Jin-Guang Teng stated, “This collaboration is built upon the highly compatible educational philosophies and development visions of our two institutions. It embodies our shared mission to serve national development, drive educational innovation and nurture future talent. These two major platforms will not only serve as important vehicles for deepening collaborative innovation and fostering the integration of education, research and industry between our institutions, but also play an exemplary and leading role in strengthening educational and research collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and supporting the development of the Greater Bay Area.” Academician Jiecai Han said, “The two universities have already built a solid foundation for cooperation in joint educational initiatives, laboratory development and doctoral training. By drawing on their respective strengths, both institutions will work together to advance SISD’s development, promote the integration of engineering excellence and design innovation, and nurture interdisciplinary talent with strong design thinking capabilities, thereby providing new momentum for the University’s progress towards becoming a world-leading university.” SISD will offer master’s degree programmes covering Design, Intelligent Science and Technology, and Urban and Rural Planning in academic year 2027/28 on the HIT Shenzhen campus. The three-year programmes plan to admit an inaugural intake of 150 full-time master’s students. The programmes are jointly coordinated and taught by teachers from both universities. Students who complete the programme and fulfil the graduation requirements will be awarded a separate degree certificate by each of the two universities. The newly established Future Design Joint Research Centre was launched the same day. It will focus on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of design, technology and society, with three key research areas: Future Living and Smart Cities; Systems Integration Design; and Culture, Arts and Digital Media Technologies. The Centre will promote pioneering research, knowledge transfer and the translation of research outcomes into real-world impact, injecting further momentum into the Nation’s innovation-driven development and the development of the GBA. Following the plaque unveiling ceremony, representatives from both universities convened the inaugural meeting of the SISD Joint Management Committee to review key matters including the School’s governance structure, academic committee membership and postgraduate admissions arrangements, laying a solid foundation for its future development. ***END***

PolyU launches Hong Kong’s first “safe landing” fall-preparedness programme to empower 17,000 older adults with fall management skills

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with five non-governmental organisations (NGOs), launched the Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme today. Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust for 45 months, the Programme is Hong Kong’s first fall-management initiative to combine judo-based safe landing techniques with the biomechanics of falling. It is expected to benefit around 17,000 older adults in the community aged 60 or above, helping those at moderate to high risk of falling to acquire safe landing and self-protection skills to reduce injuries. According to statistics from the Department of Health, some 16% of older adults in Hong Kong experience at least one fall per year, with approximately one in 10 resulting in fractures. Falls can significantly affect mobility and have a long-term impact on older adults’ physical and mental well-being and quality of life. By identifying those most at risk of falling and managing those risks effectively, the Programme seeks to shift Hong Kong’s public health approach from reactive care to proactive prevention – fostering healthy, independent and active ageing. A launch ceremony for the Programme was held on the PolyU campus today. Officiating guests were Mr HO Kai-ming, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China; Ms Pauline CHU, Chief Manager (Community Service Network) of the Primary Healthcare Commission under the Health Bureau; Dr Laura LO, Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement) of PolyU; Ms Imelda CHAN, Head of Charities (Health & Older Adults Cluster) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Prof. Marco PANG, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at PolyU; Prof. Amy FU, Associate Head of RS at PolyU; and Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme Ambassador Mr SHEK Sau. Participants in the Programme receive bone density screening and AI-driven fall-risk assessments developed by RS. Those found eligible are invited to join a 12-week fall-preparedness training scheme jointly designed by PolyU researchers and professional judo coaches. This teaches them safe landing and body protection techniques to help reduce the force of impact and minimise the risk of fractures caused by falls. Consultations with PolyU physiotherapists are also open to participants. Mr Ho Kai-ming said, “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to The Hong Kong Jockey Club for its generous support, and to PolyU for translating advanced knowledge in rehabilitation sciences into tangible community benefits.  The Programme is named ‘SafeMove’, which signifies helping elderly persons enhance their physical flexibility and adaptability so that they can respond calmly to the risk of falling.  It marks a shift in the public health paradigm from reactive care to proactive prevention, and aligns closely with the Government’s policy of promoting prevention-oriented elderly care and carer support.  Through the Pilot Scheme on Intelligent Accident Detection Systems, the Government is providing high-risk households with real-time detection and support.  This complements the ‘safe landing’ training under the Programme, jointly weaving a more robust safety net for elderly persons at home.” Dr Laura Lo remarked, “As an institution committed to addressing societal needs and enhancing community well-being through world-leading research and innovative knowledge, PolyU is proud to see the Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme come to life today. This initiative exemplifies our dedication to translating research outcomes into meaningful social impact. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust for its generous support of this Programme, and to extend my sincere thanks to our five partner NGOs and the research team from PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences for their dedication and hard work. Together they have established a cross-sector collaboration platform that connects research, professional services and community networks for the benefit of older adults across Hong Kong.” Ms Imelda Chan added, “Promoting better health is one of the strategic priorities of The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.  Riding on our ongoing commitment to prevent falls and fractures among older adults, the Trust has approved a donation of over HK$119 million to support the Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme jointly implemented by PolyU and five NGOs. As Hong Kong’s first large-scale community programme to integrate judo-based landing techniques with the biomechanics of falling, the Programme translates research evidence into innovative primary health-care services and establishes a community-based, sustainable fall management model, demonstrating the Club’s commitment to advancing impactful philanthropy and the betterment of our society.” The PolyU research team anticipates that the Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme will help to reduce fall-related injuries and associated health-care expenditure among participants, improve their physical functioning and mobility and alleviate the psychological and social burdens that the fear of falling can create, enhancing overall health and quality of life. The “Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme” is expected to not only strengthen older adults’ fall prevention and self-protection capabilities, but also to enhance their physical resilience and adaptability. The PolyU research team anticipates that the initiative will help reduce fall-related injuries and associated healthcare expenditure, improve physical functioning and mobility, and alleviate the psychological and social burdens arising from the fear of falling, thereby enhancing overall health and quality of life. PolyU holds the launch ceremony of the “Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme”. ***END*** Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme The Jockey Club SafeMove Fall Management Programme integrates judo-based landing techniques with the biomechanics of falling and is implemented in partnership with five NGOs: Haven of Hope Christian Service, Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council Limited, Jockey Club Cadenza Hub, The Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation and Yan Chai Hospital. The Programme centres on a fall-response training course that teaches safe landing techniques to community-dwelling older adults at moderate to high risk of failing, equipping them with self-protection skills when they lose balance and helping to reduce the risk of falling related injuries. Community-dwelling older adults aged 60 or above are welcome to participate. For enquiries or registration, please contact The Hong Kong Polytechnic University by phone or WhatsApp at 27665987, or by email at jc.safemove@polyu.edu.hk. For details, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/jc_safemove/

PolyU Appoints Professor Xiang-dong Li as Vice President (Research)

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has announced the appointment of Professor Xiang-dong LI as Vice President (Research), with effect from 1 October 2026. In his new capacity, Professor Li will lead the strategic planning, formulation, and advancement of the University’s research agenda. He will spearhead efforts to further enhance the quality, impact, and relevance of PolyU’s research, and steer growth in strategic research areas to elevate the University’s research standing and influence in Hong Kong, the Nation, and the world. Professor Li is currently Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment (FCE), Director of the State Key Laboratory of Climate Resilience for Coastal Cities, Director of the Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure, Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development, and Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology at PolyU. A distinguished environmental scientist, Professor Li has devoted his career to advancing research in regional environmental pollution, urban air quality and public health, and the origin and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. He has published over 250 scholarly papers, many in leading international journals. He has also served as Principal Investigator on numerous research projects funded by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His research spans a wide range of critical areas, including regional environmental pollution, urban environment and health, contaminated soil remediation, atmospheric pollutant transport and environmental impacts, and emerging contaminants. Professor Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, said: “Professor Li is a distinguished scholar in environmental science and technology with extensive experience in academic leadership, research management and interdisciplinary collaboration. Since assuming the Deanship of FCE in 2021, he has played a pivotal role in elevating the Faculty’s research capabilities and international profile, leading the team to pursue forward-looking and high-impact research, fostering strong interdisciplinary partnerships, and securing major research funding. These efforts have contributed substantially to advancing PolyU’s pursuit of research excellence and innovation. With his distinguished academic achievements, extensive management experience and strategic vision for research development, I am confident that Professor Li will further elevate PolyU’s research and innovation ecosystem, strengthen the University’s influence in Hong Kong, the Nation, and the world, and drive impactful research that addresses the evolving needs of society and national development.” Professor Li holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Environmental Technology from Imperial College London, as well as a Master’s degree in Geochemistry and a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Sciences from Nanjing University. He is a Fellow of The Hong Kong Academy of Engineering; a Geochemistry Fellow of The Geochemical Society and the European Association of Geochemistry; and a Fellow of The International Association of GeoChemistry, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, and The Society for Environmental Geochemistry and Health. In 2022, he received the Clair C. Patterson Award from the Geochemical Society in recognition of his pioneering contributions to environmental geochemistry and their significant societal impact. ***END***

PolyU ranks 79th in Times Higher Education World University Rankings, maintaining its top 100 position for six consecutive years

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has risen to rank 79th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, marking its sixth consecutive year among the world’s top 100 universities. This demonstrates PolyU’s outstanding strength and global impact in research, teaching and knowledge transfer, while also affirming the fruitful results of its commitment to building an international academic environment. A total of 2,297 universities from 118 countries and territories were evaluated based on 18 indicators across five areas: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, International Outlook and Industry. PolyU continued to perform well in most of the research-related indicators. Particularly, the University has attained full scores in “Research Excellence” and “Research Productivity” for four consecutive years and has demonstrated excellent performance in various indicators, including “Research Strength” and “Research Influence”. PolyU also achieved full scores in “Patents” for three consecutive years, which measures the number of patents from any source that cite research conducted by the university. This remarkable achievement highlights PolyU’s dedicated commitment to knowledge transfer and its contribution to national economic development. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “We are greatly encouraged that PolyU has ranked among the world’s top 100 universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for six consecutive years and has consistently achieved outstanding results across multiple research indicators. This fully affirms the University’s formidable strength and international influence in research, teaching, and knowledge transfer, while also reflecting our dedication to building an international academic environment and nurturing innovative talent with a global vision. Next year marks PolyU’s 90th anniversary, an important milestone for reflecting on nine decades of cultivating talent, driving innovation, and serving society, and, even more so, a new starting point for looking ahead. We will continue to deepen innovation in research and teaching, actively expand multidisciplinary and international collaboration, accelerate the translation of innovations into real-world impact, and strive to build an innovation hub that brings together top talent from around the world, making an even greater contribution to Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology centre and to our nation’s high-quality development.” For more information on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, please visit: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/latest/world-ranking. ***END***

PolyU Info Day for Undergraduate Admissions to be held on 10 October, featuring over 250 activities on undergraduate programmes and the latest admissions information

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will hold its Information Day for Undergraduate Admissions (Info Day) on Saturday, 10 October. The event will feature a series of engaging activities to provide prospective students and parents with information on PolyU’s undergraduate programmes and the latest admissions arrangements, while showcasing how the University nurtures future talent through innovative education and a vibrant campus life. More than 250 activities will be featured across the campus during the event, including a series of admission talks hosted by the Student Admissions and Scholarships Office, covering the latest application procedures and requirements for candidates applying via JUPAS, non-JUPAS (non-local qualifications), Senior Year admission (Associate Degree or Higher Diploma qualifications) and National College Entrance Examination (Gaokao). Meanwhile, faculties, schools and departments will organise programme seminars and consultation sessions. To gain a more in-depth understanding of the University’s learning environment and its distinctive features, visitors can also join alumni and student sharing sessions, workshops, exhibitions and guided tours of PolyU’s teaching facilities and laboratories. In response to new opportunities and challenges arising from the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and global societal transformation, the University is actively advancing the PolyU Education 4.0 initiative. Adopting a student-centred approach, the initiative integrates AI, interdisciplinary learning, experiential education and international perspectives, striving to nurture future leaders with innovative mindsets, digital literacy, professional expertise and a strong sense of social responsibility. Through flexible and diverse curriculum design, students not only acquire professional skills but also develop complex problem-solving abilities and lifelong learning capabilities to thrive in an ever-changing world. To cater to diverse learning aspirations, PolyU offers a range of undergraduate admission and study pathways. Students with a clear interest in a particular professional field can apply directly for their preferred departmental schemes or programmes. Those who wish to explore a broader range of fields before deciding on a major aligned with their interests and career aspirations can opt for faculty-based bachelor’s degree schemes. In the 2027/28 academic year, the Faculty of Science will restructure its current BSc (Hons) Scheme in Biotechnology and Chemical Technology into two distinct programmes: BSc (Hons) in Applied Biology with Biotechnology and BSc (Hons) in Chemical Technology. This change will enable students to pursue a more focused area of study aligned with their interests and career aspirations, while developing professional competencies to meet future development needs. PolyU also strives to provide a holistic learning experience that fosters students’ global perspectives. The University will continue to offer undergraduate students who receive an academic Entry Scholarship an additional HK$30,000 overseas exchange funding to support their participation in student exchange programmes. PolyU has also set a target that all undergraduates graduating in or after the 2027/28 academic year undertake at least one non-local learning experience during their studies. For details of PolyU Info Day for Undergraduate Admissions and registration, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/infoday For PolyU undergraduate programme details and application procedures, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/study ***END***

PolyU Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences and the Institute of Artificial Intelligence of Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center establish strategic partnership, jointly advancing frontier research in brain science and brain-inspired intelligence

The Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences (FCMS) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Institute of Artificial Intelligence of the Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center (IAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership. The collaboration aims to advance frontier research in brain science and brain-inspired intelligence, promote high-level academic exchange and research talent development, and further strengthen scientific and research collaboration between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. The signing ceremony was held on the PolyU campus on 16 September. Witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU; Prof. CAO Jiannong, Vice President (Education) of PolyU; and Prof. WU Feng, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Chairman of the Science and Technology Committee of IAI, the MoU was signed by Prof. CHEN Changwen, Interim Dean of FCMS of PolyU, and Prof. CHEN Li, Associate Director of IAI. Prof. Chen Changwen said, “The deep integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and brain science is not only a major trend in technological development, but also a key driving force for future innovation. PolyU has a strong foundation in computer science, healthcare AI and intelligent manufacturing, while the IAI possesses substantial strengths in brain-inspired intelligence and fundamental AI research. Through this collaboration, we look forward to leveraging our complementary strengths to advance the application of AI in areas such as healthcare and intelligent manufacturing, and to contributing to the global development of AI and brain science.” Prof. Wu Feng said, “Hong Kong enjoys unique advantages as a gateway connecting global innovation resources, while Hefei is home to a comprehensive national science centre with world-class research platforms and innovation resources. Through this partnership, we hope to generate strong synergies, deepen interdisciplinary research integrating brain science and AI, explore the fundamental nature of intelligence, and advance the development of neural twin intelligence, thereby contributing to national technological innovation.” Under the MoU, the two institutions will establish a comprehensive framework for collaboration in brain science and brain-inspired intelligence. The partnership will support joint research initiatives, foster interdisciplinary innovation and strengthen academic exchanges, further enhancing the international academic influence of both parties. By integrating their respective research resources and expertise, the partners will create further opportunities for collaboration among faculty members, students and researchers, promote knowledge sharing and technological innovation, and nurture research talent with a global perspective. ***END***

PolyU and CSHK strengthen industry-academia-research collaboration through joint laboratory and engineering scholarship, nurturing innovation and technology talent for construction industry

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited (CSHK) have signed a collaborative agreement to strengthen their collaboration in research, innovation and talent development. The two parties will establish the PolyU-CSHK Joint Laboratory to advance research and the translation of research outcomes in areas including low-carbon construction, smart construction, Modular Integrated Construction (MiC), drones, smart construction robotics and digital management. They will also establish the CSHK-PolyU Engineering Scholarship to nurture the next generation of engineering, innovation and technology talent, thereby promoting the integrated development of education, technology and talent. The signing ceremony was held on the PolyU campus in the presence of Mr Leo CHENG, Second-Level Inspector of the Education and Youth Department, Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU; and Mr ZHANG Haipeng, Director and President of China Overseas Holdings Limited. The research collaboration agreement was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Mr SHAO Ruizhe, Vice President of CSHK, while the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on scholarship and talent development was signed by Prof. LI Xiangdong, Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment of PolyU and Mr CHEN Qimeng, Vice President of CSHK. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng stated, “PolyU has always upheld its motto, ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’, and is committed to pursuing world-leading research and innovation while actively promoting industry-academia-research integration. As a key subsidiary of a world-leading global construction group, CSHK has contributed significantly to Hong Kong’s high-quality development through its advanced engineering expertise, rigorous professional ethos and strong comprehensive strengths. Hong Kong’s construction industry is currently embracing major development opportunities, with innovative technologies reshaping the construction industry chain and leading the industry towards a more efficient, higher-quality and more sustainable development model. I firmly believe that, drawing on CSHK’s extensive industry experience and PolyU’s strengths in frontier research and talent nurturing, our collaboration will yield fruitful results and contribute to the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s construction industry.” Mr Zhang Haipeng said, “CSHK has been deeply rooted in Hong Kong for 47 years and has continued to strengthen its industry-academia-research collaboration with universities. The establishment of the Joint Laboratory with PolyU and the introduction of the Engineering Scholarship mark another important step in our efforts to support the development of young people in Hong Kong and drive innovation upgrading in the construction industry. The Government of the HKSAR has just announced its first Five-Year Plan. We believe that university-enterprise collaboration will play an even greater role in innovation and technology development and talent cultivation, contributing to Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology centre and to the development of the Northern Metropolis.” PolyU and CSHK have maintained close ties and undertaken applied research projects in areas including healthcare building design and construction technologies, 3D scanning and scene reconstruction. The newly established PolyU-CSHK Joint Laboratory will focus on real-world applications in construction engineering in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and promote the research, development and application of smart construction, MiC and low-carbon technologies, injecting fresh impetus into Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology centre. PolyU will leverage the research expertise of the Faculty of Construction and Environment, the Department of Aeronautical and Aviation Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering to lead the translation and application of innovative technologies. Meanwhile, CSHK will provide real-world engineering application scenarios, as well as internship and training opportunities for researchers and students of the Joint Laboratory, fostering talent exchange and professional development between the University and industry. PolyU and CSHK have maintained a close partnership in talent development for many years. CSHK will establish the CSHK-PolyU Engineering Scholarship and offer internship opportunities for undergraduate students of the PolyU Faculty of Construction Environment. These initiatives will help students gain practical experience and expand their professional networks, supporting Hong Kong’s development as an international hub for high-calibre talent and promoting the “Study in Hong Kong” brand, while nurturing engineering professionals with both a global perspective and strong expertise. ***END***

PIIRS returns to PolyU campus in Hong Kong, showcasing 21 deep-tech innovations to accelerate research translation and connect capital with industry

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today held the Hong Kong session of its flagship PolyU Innovation Investment Roadshow Series (PIIRS) on campus, bringing together 21 PolyU startup teams to showcase and pitch their deep-tech innovations. The event attracted over 200 guests, including over 100 representatives from investment institutions and industry partners. By connecting research breakthroughs with capital and industry applications, PIIRS provides an effective platform for translating innovation into real-world impact, injecting fresh momentum into the innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystems of Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), said, “Following the successful PIIRS events in Qianhai and Beijing, it is especially meaningful to bring the series back to the University’s home campus. The startup teams presenting today exemplify the PolyU spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Their projects are rooted in cutting-edge research, address industry needs, and demonstrate strong market and commercial potential. Through PIIRS, we bring together stakeholders from across the innovation ecosystem to accelerate the translation of research into impact and unlock greater social and economic value.” Prof. Chao encouraged participating teams to make full use of the opportunity to expand their networks, forge strategic partnerships and bring their innovations successfully to market. The event featured 21 deep-tech projects spanning five key domains: “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy”, “Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Materials”, “Life Sciences and Healthcare”, “Smart City and Sustainable Development”, and “Aerospace and Aviation Technology”. Led by PolyU researchers, these projects highlight the University’s research excellence and innovation capabilities. In addition to the pitching sessions, a dedicated exhibition showcased research outcomes and product prototypes, enabling investors and industry partners to gain deeper insights into the teams’ technological strengths and commercialisation potential while also fostering collaboration opportunities. During the event, Prof. Zijian ZHENG, PolyU Vice President (Knowledge Transfer), introduced the University’s PolyVentures startup ecosystem, which has successfully nurtured over 900 active startups. He remarked, “PolyU will continue to pursue excellence in talent cultivation, scientific research and knowledge transfer while expanding its cross-boundary collaboration network and building diverse innovation platforms. Through closer collaboration among the government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors, we will further strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems and contribute PolyU’s expertise and strengths to advancing innovation and technological development in Hong Kong, the Nation and beyond.” Drawing on their experience as investors, in the thematic sharing session titled “From the VC Lens”, Mr Ernest MA, Managing Director of Beyond Ventures, and Dr Gordon YEN, Founding Managing Partner of Radiant Tech Ventures, shared their insights into investment opportunities in deep-tech ventures. Their perspectives helped inspire participating startups and guests, while also facilitating exchange between entrepreneurs and the investment community with a view to exploring potential partnerships and investment opportunities. Committed to serving national development and advancing technological innovation, PolyU has established a robust translational research network in the Chinese Mainland, comprising 12 Mainland Translational Research Institutes in different cities, the PolyU-Qianhai Disruptive Technology and Innovation Research Centre, and two research institutes in Shenzhen. As an integrated platform for I&T investment and industry collaboration, PIIRS leverages PolyU’s extensive network and resources in the Chinese Mainland to organise regular events across the Nation’s four major innovation hubs: the GBA, the Yangtze River Delta, the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (Jing-Jin-Ji) region and Central China. Through project pitches, technology showcases and networking activities, the platform connects PolyU researchers and startup teams with investors and industry partners, fostering cross-sector collaboration between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, supporting industrial upgrading and driving socioeconomic development. Startup teams engaged in in-depth discussions with investment professionals, exploring potential collaboration and investment opportunities. ***END***

PolyU presents “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase; Diverse array of activities showcases Hakka culture, fostering cultural exchange across the Greater Bay Area

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will hold a two-week “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase (the Showcase) starting 1 October 2026. Through a series of activities including an exhibition, dance drama, forum and intangible cultural heritage workshops, the Showcase will present the deep-rooted connections between Hakka culture and Hong Kong, while promoting cultural exchange, appreciation of heritage and innovation across the Greater Bay Area (GBA). As a highlight of the third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival, the Showcase is generously supported and co-organised by the Overseas Friendship Associations of Huizhou, Heyuan, Meizhou and Shaoguan. The launch ceremony will be held on the morning of 1 October at the PolyU Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre, unveiling a series of exciting activities. First to take the stage will be the “Exhibition on the History, Culture, and Prominent Figures of Hakka in the Greater Bay Area”, which will run from 1 to 16 October. The exhibition introduces Hakka culture in the GBA, showcasing the profound shared cultural heritage of the four cities of Huizhou, Shaoguan, Heyuan and Meizhou, highlighting the “common origin of the four prefectures”, with a special focus on “Guangdong-Hong Kong solidarity” and “connecting overseas Chinese worldwide”. It also features reproductions of a number of precious overseas remittance letters and other historical materials relating to Hakka communities across the Strait and overseas, bearing witness to the deep affection of the Hakka people for their homeland. At noon, the original dance drama “1942 Through the Blockade Line”, performed by the Huizhou Song and Dance Theatre, will also be staged, presenting on stage the rescue operation undertaken during the period of the Japanese occupation that renowned literary figure Mao Dun hailed as the greatest endeavour in the War of Resistance, rescuing hundreds of cultural figures and patriots from Hong Kong. On 2 October, PolyU will also host a high-level forum on GBA Hakka culture, at which Professor XIAO Wenping, Dean of the Hakka Culture Research Institute at Jiaying University, and Dr LAU Kai Yiu, Lecturer of the PolyU Department of Chinese History and Culture, will introduce the audience to the depth and heritage of Hakka culture. In addition, to allow participants to experience the unique charm of Hakka culture first-hand, intangible cultural heritage workshops will be held on 6, 7, 14 and 15 October, covering “Dragon Style Martial Arts”, “String Puppetry”, “Traditional Zhongxin Lantern Craft” and “Yao Embroidery”, conveying the beauty of intangible cultural heritage through interactive experiences. The PolyU Chinese Culture Festival is a major annual event of the University, promoting Chinese culture through a rich and diverse array of activities. It aims to cultivate a sense of national sentiment and cultural confidence among PolyU staff, students and the public, and to strengthen a sense of national identity, pride and belonging.  “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase is free of charge. PolyU students, staff, alumni and members of the public are welcome. For details: https://polyu.me/4rnRwUz. Programme introduction and online ticket registration for the dance drama “1942 Through the Blockade Line” (for public): https://polyu.me/4Asrtjl. Seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. The high-level forum on GBA Hakka culture will be held on 2 October, featuring Professor Xiao Wenping, Dean of the Hakka Culture Research Institute at Jiaying University (left), and Dr Lau Kai Yiu, Lecturer at PolyU’s Department of Chinese History and Culture (right), as speakers. The “Dragon Style Martial Arts” intangible cultural heritage workshop will be held on 6 October. The “String Puppetry” intangible cultural heritage workshop will be held on 7 October. The “Traditional Zhongxin Lantern Craft” intangible cultural heritage workshop will be held on 14 October. The “Yao Embroidery” intangible cultural heritage workshop will be held on 15 October. ***END***

PolyU and Fudan University establish Suanova Hong Kong-Shanghai Joint Laboratory for AI in Healthcare, advancing collaborative innovation in artificial intelligence and healthcare

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Fudan University signed a collaboration agreement yesterday (21 September) to establish the Suanova Hong Kong-Shanghai Joint Laboratory for AI in Healthcare. The two universities will work together to advance interdisciplinary research and innovative applications in artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare, nurture AI healthcare talent with a global outlook, and contribute to the Nation’s scientific and technological innovation and the health and well-being of its people. The signing ceremony was held at Shanghai Bay Valley Science and Technology Park. Witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, and Prof. ZHOU Lei, Vice President of Fudan University, the agreement was signed by Prof. YANG Hongxia, Executive Director of the PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence, and Prof. ZHANG Wenhong, Head of the Institute of Infection and Health of Fudan University. Prof. Wing-tak Wong and Prof. Zhou Lei then unveiled the Joint Laboratory, marking a milestone in Hong Kong-Shanghai collaboration in AI and healthcare. Through the Joint Laboratory, the two universities will combine their respective strengths in AI, medicine, public health and clinical research to promote innovative research and knowledge transfer, interdisciplinary talent development and academic exchange. The collaboration will also enhance the translation of research outcomes, helping researchers, clinicians and students master cutting-edge AI technologies while supporting the optimisation of healthcare services and improved patient outcomes. Prof. Wing-tak Wong said, “In recent years, PolyU has strengthened its strategic development in AI and advanced frontier research and real-world applications. Fudan University has deep expertise in medicine, public health and clinical research. Leveraging high-level research platforms including the National Medical Centre for Infectious Diseases, it has achieved outstanding results in the prevention and control of major infectious diseases and in healthcare research. The Joint Laboratory will further integrate AI technologies into applications that address medical, clinical practice and public health needs, and accelerate the real-world application of internationally impactful healthcare innovations.” Prof. Zhou Lei said, “AI is changing the way scientific research is conducted, but tools alone do not generate answers. What makes medicine unique is whether innovation can connect real-world problems with new tools. This will determine how far AI can go in medicine.” He expressed the hope that the Joint Laboratory would start with genuine clinical needs and allow real-world questions to guide technological development. He added that Fudan University would fully support the development of the Joint Laboratory by providing the necessary office and research space, experimental facilities and clinical research conditions. The Joint Laboratory has been established with a generous donation from Suanova Technology Limited (Suanova), a subsidiary of Yeebo (International Holdings) Limited, which will provide computing power support. Witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak Wong and Prof. Zhou Lei, the donation agreement was signed by Mr Douglas FANG, Chairman of Suanova Technology Limited and Executive Director of the Board of Directors of Yeebo (International Holdings) Limited, and Ms LIU Li, President of Fudan University Education Development Foundation. Drawing on the strengths of the two universities in scientific research, talent development and academic disciplines, the Joint Laboratory will focus on frontier collaboration in areas including generative AI, infectious disease research, medical informatics and bioinformatics. It will advance the development of key technologies and innovation in core algorithms. The two universities will also support the joint training of postgraduate students, postdoctoral researchers and young research talent, promote academic exchange, and integrate research, industry and collaboration resources to accelerate the transition and industrial application of research outcomes, thereby driving innovation in healthcare. ***END***