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PolyU Co-Hosts the UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance Meeting in Uzbekistan

From 24 to 27 June 2025, the University Alliance of the Silk Road (UASR) Tourism Sub-Alliance Meeting was held in Uzbekistan in conjunction with the “One Belt One Road One Tourism” International Conference co‑organised by the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Central Asian University, Uzbekistan. Professor Geoffrey Shen, Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships) of PolyU, delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony calling for the extension of strategic partnerships through this meaningful network. Professor Kaye Chon, Dean of the SHTM, also shared his perspectives on the future of tourism in Central Asia and along the Silk Road.   Nearly 150 participants from 31 countries from PolyU, the Central Asian University, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Chengdu University, Mae Fah Luang University, and the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage attended the event and engaged in meaningful academic dialogue on research initiatives and collaboration prospects in tourism and hospitality. With the support of the PolyU Belt and Road Learning Experience Fund, administered by the Global Engagement Office, five PolyU undergraduate students also presented their research findings and gained valuable feedback from distinguished scholars at the meeting. During the meeting, the Central Asian University and the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage were approved as new members of the UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance.   Several scholars and students reflected on their fruitful experiences:   “The event served as a catalyst for future joint research, academic exchanges, and collaborative regional initiatives aligned with the broader vision of Silk Road cooperation. I returned from Tashkent with a renewed sense of purpose, enriched by new perspectives, strengthened academic networks, and a deepened commitment to advancing tourism education and promoting sustainable development across the Silk Road region.” -- Dr Nattapan Kongbuamai (Assistant Professor, School of Management, Mae Fah Luang University)   “Attending the UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance meeting in Tashkent as an observer was a valuable learning experience. I gained meaningful insights into how universities across the Belt and Road regions are collaborating to advance hospitality and tourism education and research. Representatives from member institutions shared initiatives in curriculum development, student and faculty exchange, and joint research projects, showcasing the potential of cross-border academic partnerships. The strong commitment to sustainable development and regional capacity building was particularly inspiring. The discussions on promoting the Sub-Alliance and recruiting new members highlighted the importance of expanding and strengthening the network.” -- Professor Ada Lo (Associate Professor, SHTM, PolyU)   “This programme was much more than an academic conference; it was a transformational learning journey. It deepened my research skills, strengthened my cultural sensitivity, and gave me unique insights into the modern realities of the Belt and Road Initiative. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn not just from books, but from real places, people, and stories that are shaping the global tourism landscape today.” -- Yin Qi (Undergraduate, SHTM, PolyU)   Jointly established by PolyU and the Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2015, the UASR is a non-government and non-profit alliance aimed at providing an open and international collaborative platform in higher education. PolyU currently holds the Vice Presidency of the Alliance and takes a leading role in fostering talent development, researching technologies and policies, and promoting cultural exchange and medical services among the member institutions. The UASR Tourism Sub-Alliance was initiated by PolyU’s SHTM in 2019 to advance tourism development by fostering robust cooperation among UASR members on tourism education and research.

PolyU Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme 2025 nurtures next generation of innovative research talent

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to fostering the holistic development of young people, providing diverse and enriching learning opportunities to nurture innovative research talent with a global perspective. PolyU held the fifth “Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme” (JRMP), attracting 147 high school students from 97 local and international schools. Under the guidance of around 70 PolyU academics from various faculties, schools and departments, the students participated in a series of impactful research projects. This year’s programme yielded 31 research projects covering diverse fields, including nursing, land surveying and geo-informatics, social sciences, biomedicine, design, fashion and textiles, hotel and tourism, and engineering. Over a four-month period, students conducted individual or group research under the guidance of PolyU academics, engaging in research design, data collection, literature review and results reporting. This deepened their understanding of the research projects and enhanced their research skills. Students also had the opportunity to visit related laboratories and teaching and research facilities, gaining a deeper understanding of PolyU’s diverse undergraduate programmes, and thereby helping them prepare for their future studies and programme selection. Prof. Geoffrey SHEN, PolyU Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships) and Director of Global Engagement, said, “PolyU is committed to leveraging our top-notch academics to support the development of young research talents in Hong Kong. The JRMP enables secondary school students to engage in the research process with support from some of our leading academic colleagues. Some of the participants have the opportunity to present their research findings at international conferences, showcasing the quality and potential of their research. I hope the Programme has ignited a passion for research in these students and I look forward to welcoming them to PolyU, as our students or as future researchers and to them contributing to driving impactful innovations for our future.” Under the guidance ofacademics from the PolyU School of Nursing, a team of eight students from Shatin Pui Ying College, Immaculate Heart of Mary College, Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong, ESF Sha Tin College, The Independent Schools Foundation Academy, Hong Kong University Graduate Association College, Valtorta College and Kit Sam Lam Bing Yim Secondary School conducted research on “Youth mental health and resilience.” They completed the “Mission ReST” resilience-building programme offered by the PolyU ReST Hub, gaining an understanding of how to build resilience. The team designed an innovative solution beyond the existing framework by combining environmental adaptation and gamification elements, creating a relaxed environment and interactive experiences to help young people enhance their resilience. They said, “Through the Programme, we learnt about conducting both quantitative and qualitative research, taking part in questionnaire design, and data collection and analysis. Participating in the research process not only enhanced our practical research skills, but also deepened our understanding of mental health and the importance of building resilience.” Two students from Hong Kong International School and Shung Tak Catholic English College conducted the research project “Deriving long-time series vegetation phenology using artificial intelligence in the Boston area” under the guidance of academics from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics. The students developed a deep learning model, enabling the effective reconstruction of seasonal trajectories of vegetation dynamics and the detection of phenological trends on a regional scale.They stated, “Participating in JRMP was a rewarding and eye-opening experience. With careful mentorship, we learnt about vegetation phenology and honed our skills in satellite data processing and coding, which has motivated us to continue pursuing research in the future.” PolyU launched the JRMP in 2021 to encourage secondary school students to explore a broad range of research fields and interdisciplinary knowledge, fostering their interest in research and nurturing the next generation of local innovation and technology talent in support of Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology centre and international hub for post-secondary education. To-date, nearly 700 secondary school students from 125 local and international schools have participated in the Programme, completing 175 research projects. Moving forward, JRMP will invite more schools and students to participate in this enriching learning experience. Applications will open early next year for the 2026 Programme, which is scheduled to run from April to August.   ***END***

The 5th USRN Online Forum on Social Responsibility in Research: Co-producing a Better Future

The 5th USRN Online Forum on “Social Responsibility in Research: Co-producing a Better Future,” was concluded successfully on 9 July 2025. Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement at The University of Manchester, opened the session by emphasising the importance of advancing social responsibility through community engagement and participatory research. The forum featured two insightful speakers: Dr Laura Breen, Research Development and Impact Manager of Research and Business Engagement Support Services, at The University of Manchester and Professor Carin Combrinck, Head of Department of Architecture, at the University of Pretoria. Each speaker shared their university’s initiatives to support participatory research. Dr Laura Breen discussed The University of Manchester’s efforts to foster a more inclusive and impactful research culture through participatory research initiatives. She shared a quote that stated, “participatory or co-produced research strengthens research outcomes by involving the communities and users of research”. Her team mapped current practices, identified challenges, and produced case study films to showcase diverse engagement models. She highlighted the importance of maintaining sustained relationships and mutual benefit in research partnerships. (Click to view Dr Breen’s presentation) Professor Carin Combrinck presented the Co-creating Wellness research project, a three-year study on co-creating wellness and human dignity in informal settlements in Melusi, located west of Pretoria. Professor Combrinck shared insights on using architectural research as a tool for justice and transformation, highlighting the significance of participatory design methods in addressing spatial inequalities. Her team developed the ukuDoba method (a Zulu word meaning fishing), which emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration across faculties to collect and share data over time, enabling longitudinal community engagement. They co-designed action plans addressing urban agriculture, water safety, and economic inclusion. (Click to view Professor Combrinck’s presentation)  The session concluded with a discussion on community involvement in research and collaboration, highlighting the importance of long-term engagement and active participation of community members in research processes. Dr Skyrme concluded that participatory research goes beyond mere outreach, but it is about truth-seeking. Knowledge that is co-created is richer, more valid, and more impactful. The session reinforced that socially responsible universities should embed these practices to serve society meaningfully. About the USRN The University Social Responsibility Network (USRN), established in 2015, believes that universities have an obligation to work together to find solutions to address the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the world today, making the world more just, inclusive, peaceful and sustainable. The USRN comprises 22 member institutions with a wide geographic spread. Members are leading universities in their countries dedicated to making a positive impact for the benefit of the society and the world. Currently, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University serves as the Chair of the USRN Executive Committee and hosts the Network Secretariat.     

PolyU Delegation Established International Connections in Egypt

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) visited Egypt in June 2025 to reinforce its global networks and explore new collaboration opportunities. Led by Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) and accompanied by Prof. Geoffrey Qiping Shen, Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships) and Director of Global Engagement, Prof. Jiannong Cao, Dean of Graduate School, Dr Kelly Chan, Head of the Graduate School Office and Ms Jessica Lo, Senior Manager of the Global Engagement Office.The delegation met with the Ministry of Education and Technical Education to explore joint efforts in supporting Egyptian students’ access to quality education at PolyU. Moreover, they visited the top three leading Egyptian universities — Ain Shams University, Cairo University, and Helwan University — where high-level meetings took place with university vice presidents and international relations offices to discuss potential collaborations in student exchange, academic initiatives, research and postgraduate education. The delegation’s outreach extended to a local senior high school, where they introduced Hong Kong as a desirable study destination. Through these strengthened connections with Egyptian institutions, PolyU reaffirms its commitment to expanding its global network and fostering active engagement worldwide.

PolyU Delegation Strengthens Global Ties in Türkiye

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) recently embarked on a delegation visit to Türkiye to foster international collaboration and expand its global footprint in June 2025. The delegation was led by Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), joined by Prof. Geoffrey Qiping Shen, Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships) and Director of Global Engagement, and Mr Gavin Ngai, Deputy Director of Global Engagement. During the visit, the delegation met with five leading universities in Türkiye, including Koç University, Sabanci University, Istanbul Technical University, Middle East Technical University, and Bilkent University. They had high-level meetings with university presidents, senior management, and key teams, exploring new opportunities for collaboration, such as student and faculty exchanges, joint academic initiatives and more. Beyond university engagements, the delegation also visited several local secondary schools, further broadening PolyU’s outreach to prospective students and strengthening ties with educational partners in the region. By forging closer connections with Turkish institutions, PolyU remains committed to deepening its international connections and staying actively engaged with a wide range of partners.  

The 4th USRN Online Forum on How Universities Measure Their Social Impact

The 4th USRN Online Forum on “How Universities Measure Their Social Impact,” was concluded successfully on 4 June 2025, bringing together approximately 100 academic leaders and practitioners from around the world to explore strategies for evaluating the societal contributions of higher education institutions. Professor Loretta Feris, Vice Principal: Academic and Professor of Environmental Law at the University of Pretoria, opened the session by emphasising the importance for universities to demonstrate their impact on society, instead of merely claiming it. The forum featured four insightful speakers: Professor Audrey Falk, Program Director and Professor of Community Engagement at Merrimack College, Dr Martina Jordaan, Head: Community Engagement Research and Postgraduate Students at University of Pretoria, Ms Diana Hornby, Director, Community Engagement Division at Rhodes University and Ms Megan Donnelley, Director of Societal Impact and Evaluation at UNSW Sydney. Each speaker provided unique perspectives on frameworks, implementation, and strategic integration of community engagement. Professor Audrey Falk and Dr Martina Jordaan laid the theoretical foundation, highlighting the importance of aligning institutional missions, vision and values with community engagement. Professor Falk presented various models and frameworks for measuring social impact. She also discussed the logic model and metrics used by other universities for data collection and data evaluation. To conclude, she highlighted the significance of participatory approaches to evaluation, focusing on equity, access, diversity, reciprocity and community benefit in measuring social impact. Dr Martina Jordaan presented the University of Pretoria’s structured toolkit for curricular community engagement initiatives. This toolkit consists of three phases – context-setting, action, and assessment of impact and sustainability. She also shared how she adapted the toolbox of “Towards a European Framework for Community Engagement in Higher Education” for assessing and evaluating impact at the university’s various levels. In particular, she emphasised micro-level evaluation across faculties and community partners. Ms Diana Hornby provided a practical case study from Rhodes University, detailing the Vice Chancellor’s Education Pathway Programme, which aims at revitalising public education in Makanda, South Africa. She described a multi-level impact measurement approach, spanning from citywide to micro-programme level, to assess the programme impact. Her presentation underscored the power of data-driven planning and collaborative partnerships in achieving measurable educational outcomes. Ms Megan Donnelley presented UNSW Sydney’s strategic integration of societal impact into its 10-year institutional plan, highlighting their four pathways and focus areas. She described their approach for measuring and evaluating impact across the university, which involves setting objectives, establishing indicators, and consulting with various stakeholders. She also introduced UNSW’s early-stage university-wide impact evaluation framework and shared an example of how they measure impact through their gateway programme for underrepresented students, focusing on outcomes such as success rates and retention. At the conclusion, Professor Feris thanked all the speakers for their diverse perspectives on impact measurement, ranging from theoretical foundations to practical outcomes. The panel discussion not only highlighted common challenges, particularly in measuring qualitative aspects of impact, such as transformation and justice, but also issued a call to action for universities to move beyond transactional engagement and strive for deeper, more transformative partnerships that are accountable, inclusive, and sustainable.   About the USRN The University Social Responsibility Network (USRN), established in 2015, believes that universities have an obligation to work together to find solutions to address the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the world today, making the world more just, inclusive, peaceful and sustainable. The USRN comprises 22 member institutions with a wide geographic spread. Members are leading universities in their countries dedicated to making a positive impact for the benefit of the society and the world. Currently, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University serves as the Chair of the USRN Executive Committee and hosts the Network Secretariat.     

PolyU “Pioneering the Moon: From Exploration to Base Construction” Lunar Base Design Competition Concludes Successfully

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been actively participating in the Nation’s space missions. This academic year, PolyU organised the space-theme programme “Pioneering the Moon: From Exploration to Base Construction”, aiming to cultivate young people’s interest in aerospace technology and in contributing to the Nation’s space development. The programme was sponsored by the Bank of China (Hong Kong) (BOCHK) and supported by the Chinese Society of Astronautics and the Hong Kong Society of Astronautics. The Lunar Base Design Competition received over 40 design proposals from students of 28 secondary schools and international schools in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. An award ceremony was held on 30 May at the Chiang Chen Studio Theatre at the PolyU campus, attended by nearly 200 experts, students, teachers and parents. Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, stated, “PolyU has always been at the forefront of technological advancement and research. We are proud to be part of our nation’s efforts to explore and understand the Moon and Mars through various Chang’e and Tianwen missions, leveraging our cutting-edge research and engineering capabilities to make significant contributions to the development of Hong Kong, our nation, and the world. The innovative designs and ideas of the participating teams have impressed the judges. The students' dedication and creativity are truly inspiring and vital to the future of space exploration.” Mrs Ann KUNG, Advisor of BOCHK, stated, “Our nation has made tremendous strides in aerospace technology in recent years. To seize the opportunities presented by the national aerospace programme, Hong Kong must actively cultivate a new generation of aerospace technology talent and integrate more deeply into the country’s overall development.As a leading commercial and regional bank with over a century of deep roots in Hong Kong, Bank of China (Hong Kong) is committed to fulfilling our corporate social responsibilities and in particular advancing the holistic development of young people, thus empowering the next generation of pioneers.In line with the national strategy of ‘building China into a space power’, we have also been actively promoting the popularization of aerospace science in recent years through supporting educational outreach projects and other diverse and innovative activities,  encouraging citizens particularly young people to understand our country's aerospace development, enhancing their knowledges in aerospace and contributing to the cultivation of aerospace talents in Hong Kong and the development of Hong Kong's aerospace industry. ” The judging panel praised the participating students for their outstanding creativity and scientific talent, inspiring the next generation of space explorers and innovators. Prof. WU Bo, Fiona Cheung Professor in Spatial Science, Associate Head (Research) of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, and Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations of PolyU, commended the students’ innovative designs and encouraged them to further refine their works and explore opportunities in the Nation’s thriving space research and developments. The Lunar Base Design Competition focused on themes that included Lunar Architecture and Energy, Lunar Robots, and Astronaut Health and Life Support. Students were required to design innovative lunar bases based on scientific research and data analysis. After evaluation by a judging panel comprising PolyU aerospace experts and members of the Hong Kong Society of Astronautics, teams from Pui Kiu College, ESF Sha Tin College, and St. Paul’s Convent School (Secondary Section) won champion, first runner-up and second runner-up awards respectively. The three winning teams will receive prizes to encourage their continued participation in STEM education activities at schools. The champion team from Pui Kiu College proposed a multifunctional lunar robot designed to assist astronauts on the lunar surface in tasks such as sample collection and equipment maintenance, enhancing the efficiency and safety of lunar soil collection and aiding in the exploration of shadowed regions on the Moon and the discovery of new resources and geological features. Prof. Wing-tak Wong (3rd from right) and Mrs Ann Kung (4th from left) presented the award to the champion team from Pui Kiu College. The first runner-up team from ESF Sha Tin College designed a solar-powered lunar base using heliostats, which could potentially increase the base's energy efficiency by 67%, providing astronauts with a sustainable lunar living and working environment. Prof. Miranda Lou (3rd from right) presented the award to the first runner-up team from ESF Sha Tin College. The second runner-up team from St. Paul’s Convent School (Secondary Section) proposed a robotic construction base with a sustainable energy system, allowing the base to be fully deployed with autonomous robots, ensuring a swift completion of base construction in a shorter time and reducing astronauts' exposure to harmful radiation. Prof. Miranda Lou (3rd from right) presented the award to the second runner-up team from St. Paul’s Convent School (Secondary Section). The space-theme programme “Pioneering the Moon: From Exploration to Base Construction” also hosted a public space-themed lecture and two online lectures earlier, and arranged for students to visit the PolyU Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations to deepen their aerospace knowledge.  

PolyU Delegation Signs MoU with University of Bath During Visits to UK, Portugal, and Spain

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the University of Bath have entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step towards fostering global partnerships and expanding learning opportunities through student exchanges and dual PhD programmes during the delegation's visit to the UK, Portugal, and Spain from April to May 2025. The MoU was signed by Prof. Ben Young, PolyU Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), and Prof. Julian Chaudhura, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education & Global) of the University of Bath. This marks the first MoU between the two institutions, paving the way for future potential partnerships in institutional-level student exchange programmes and the establishment of dual PhD degree initiatives. This strategic partnership underscores both institutions' commitment to promoting academic collaboration and opens doors for students and researchers to engage in cross-cultural learning and research opportunities. Building on this momentum, the delegation's visit to the UK, Portugal, and Spain, led by Prof. Ben Young, Prof. Geoffrey Qiping Shen (Associate Vice President for Global Partnerships and Director of Global Engagement), and Mr Gavin Ngai (Deputy Director of Global Engagement), was an enriching journey spanning three countries and engaging with 14 esteemed institutions, secondary schools, and alumni associations, further fostering academic exchange and global connections with various stakeholders. In the UK, the delegation embarked on a tour of ten renowned universities, including King’s College London, Loughborough University, Royal College of Art, The University of Edinburgh, University of Bath, University of Birmingham, University of Bristol, University of Oxford, University of Southampton, and University of St Andrews, concluding their UK visit with a gathering with the Hong Kong PolyU (United Kingdom) Association. The journey continued to Spain, where the delegation engaged with Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, as well as in Portugal, at a high school in Coimbra. This extensive visit strengthened international ties and laid a robust groundwork for future global partnerships and collaborations.

The 3rd USRN Online Forum on Social Responsibility in Teaching and Learning: Service Learning and Community-Engaged Learning

The 3rd USRN Online Forum, themed "Social Responsibility in Teaching and Learning: Service Learning and Community-Engaged Learning," was successfully held on 23 April 2025, attracting over 90 participants from around the globe. Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement at The University of Manchester, moderated the event, opening with remarks on the vital role of service learning in bridging academia with societal needs. The keynote presentation was delivered by Dr Grace Ngai, Head of Service-Learning and Leadership Office at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Dr Ngai presented on the university’s ambitious goal to integrate global learning with service learning, aiming to nurture socially responsible professionals with global perspectives. She addressed challenges such as academic staff workload and cultural sensitivity in implementing international service learning programmes. Dr Ngai shared strategies to overcome these challenges, such as partnering with local universities to facilitate service learning projects. She also presented research findings showing that non-local service learning enhances intercultural competency and learning outcomes. Respondents included Assistant Prof. Dennis Quilala from the University of the Philippines, Ms Ming Huei Chia from Singapore University of Social Sciences, and Dr Eugene Machimana from the University of Pretoria. Each shared insights into their institutions' service learning models, highlighting both similarities and differences.  Assistant Prof. Quilala highlighted the collaborative efforts between the University of the Philippines and PolyU in implementing service learning programmes. He noted the ease of collaboration due to shared goals, such as serving underserved areas and fostering community engagement. Over two years, the partnership has grown significantly, with increased student participation and volunteer involvement. He emphasised the mutual benefits of this collaboration, aiming to enhance people-to-people relations while learning from each other's approaches and contexts. Ms Chia highlighted the institutionalisation of service learning at her university, where it is embedded in the core curriculum as a graduation requirement, similar to PolyU. She emphasised that the university believes education should foster intellectual growth, civic engagement, empathy, and a strong moral compass. The programme is designed to empower students to take responsible actions for real-world community impact. Dr Machimana described the University of Pretoria's approach, where students undergo community engagement orientation to prepare for cultural diversity and security issues before participating in service learning programmes. He stressed the importance of universities collaborating with communities as equal partners, allowing the communities to influence curricula through co-design and evaluation. At the conclusion of the session, the speaker and respondents each shared a word that inspires their work in service learning: "Shared Humanity," "Commitment," "Connections," and "Collaboration." Dr Skyrme wrapped up the session by emphasising the importance of this work, noting that service learning is not solely about pedagogy and policy; it is deeply rooted in our values and our sense of purpose within our institutions.   About the USRN The University Social Responsibility Network (USRN), established in 2015, believes that universities have an obligation to work together to find solutions to address the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the world today, making the world more just, inclusive, peaceful and sustainable. The USRN comprises 21 member institutions with a wide geographic spread. Members are leading universities in their countries dedicated to making a positive impact for the benefit of the society and the world. Currently, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University serves as the Chair of the USRN Executive Committee and hosts the Network Secretariat. 

PolyU PReCIT hosts dialogue with Consul General of Malaysia in Hong Kong on the theme of “ASEAN-Malaysia Chairmanship 2025”

The Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with PolyU Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) and the Global Engagement Office (GEO), hosted the seventh Consul General Talk on 9 April, which featured a dialogue with Mr Muzambli MARKAM, Consul General of Malaysia in Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR. Titled “ASEAN-Malaysia Chairmanship 2025”, the talk promoted deeper understanding among PolyU community of ASEAN policy frameworks, opportunities under the Belt and Road Initiative, and Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” in the region, while also fostering meaningful connections with leaders from the business, technology and policy sectors. The event commenced with opening remarks by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Director of PReCIT, and Mr Nicholas HO Lik-chi, Commissioner for Belt and Road of the Government of HKSAR. A dynamic dialogue, featuring Mr Muzambli Markam and moderated by Prof. Chea-su KEE, Head of School of Optometry and K.B. Woo Family Professor in Optometry, followed. The event concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS and Co-Director of PReCIT. Prof. Christopher Chao underscored PolyU’s strategic vision for global collaboration and technological advancement. He remarked, “PolyU is committed to advancing innovation and knowledge exchange through cross-border partnerships. At the heart of our engagement with Malaysia, ASEAN and beyond lies a shared commitment to technological progress, knowledge transfer and impactful partnerships with industry practitioners. By bridging academia, industry and policy, we are forging pathways that empower our students to thrive in an interconnected and knowledge-driven world while also transforming our collaborations into tangible and sustainable growth.” Mr Nicholas Ho highlighted Hong Kong’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative, saying, “Hong Kong serves as a functional platform for the Belt and Road Initiative, acting as both a ‘super connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’ for our partners. In our drive to deepen international exchanges and cooperation, we align perfectly with Malaysia’s aspirations for economic growth and regional resilience.” Mr Muzambli Markam elaborated on Malaysia’s ASEAN priorities and said, “As the ASEAN Chair for 2025, Malaysia embodies the theme of ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’ by ensuring that ASEAN’s growth benefits all member states and their populations, leaving no one behind, while prioritising sustainable development. Malaysia also seeks to strengthen ASEAN centrality through dialogue and diplomacy, promote intra-ASEAN trade and investment, and advance digital transformation by leveraging science, technology and innovation.” During the dialogue, Prof. Chea-su Kee raised critical questions regarding “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” including how neighbouring countries and academic sectors could collaborate with ASEAN to advance scientific research and innovative technologies, prompting audience to reflect on ASEAN’s policy frameworks. Prof. Kee stated, “As a Malaysian in Hong Kong’s innovation hub, I’m committed to advancing ASEAN’s sustainable growth. This dialogue connects Hong Kong’s tech ecosystem with ASEAN’s universities and industries to co-develop impactful solutions. Together, we’ll turn vision into action.” Prof. Eric Chui called for interdisciplinary collaboration in his speech. He said, “We are optimistic about a brighter future together, built on mutual respect, shared goals and continued cooperation. By uniting diverse perspectives and expertise, we can tackle complex challenges more effectively. Beyond education, this collective effort elevates Hong Kong’s standing as a global hub for innovation, driving impactful connections that extend across academia, industry, and policy. In coming together, we lay the foundation for solutions that pave the way to a more inclusive and sustainable future.” A first-year Malaysian PolyU undergraduate student, Ms Fong Wen Yan, shared her journey to Hong Kong and her experience at PolyU. She said, “My time here has transformed my independence and adaptability. Exploring the University’s vibrant campus and cityscape has been as enriching as my academic journey. Meanwhile, PolyU and its Malaysian Student Associations organises activities like the Malaysian Cultural Night to help international students like me adapt to this new environment.” Launched in February 2023, the Consul General Talk Series fosters dialogue between the PolyU community and leaders from Belt and Road nations. The series offers insights into global innovation, policy trends and educational opportunities, reinforcing PolyU’s role as a hub for international engagement.