The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) participated in the first edition of the France-Hong Kong Universities Forum, held in Paris from 21 to 22 May 2026. Co-organised by the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macao, France Universités, Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee (UGC), and the Heads of Universities Committee’s Standing Committee on Internationalisation (HUCOMSCI), the landmark event aimed to deepen academic ties and foster high-impact collaborative research between higher education institutions in both regions. A significant milestone of the two-day programme was the signing of a Letter of Intent between the universities in Hong Kong and France Universités. This agreement formally solidifies a shared commitment to expanding internationalisation efforts and establishing long-term collaborative structures. Reflecting PolyU’s continuous dedication to international academic collaboration, the university actively contributed to the forum’s extensive panel discussions. Professor Ben Young, Vice President of Student and Global Affairs at PolyU, represented the institution in a critical dialogue focused on artificial intelligence-driven innovation. The panel explored how universities in France and Hong Kong can lead advancements through interdisciplinary research, share expertise, and train future leaders in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The comprehensive programme also featured high-level visits to prestigious French scientific institutions, including the Académie des sciences, the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), the National School of Decorative Arts (ENSAD), and the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). These strategic engagements provided valuable platforms for Hong Kong university leaders to exchange perspectives on research priorities and explore pathways for strengthened scientific cooperation. The successful completion of this inaugural forum marks a new chapter in global academic collaboration. The institutional exchanges and high-level dialogues established in Paris have laid a strong foundation for future initiatives, reaffirming PolyU’s commitment to driving impactful global research, nurturing international talent, and continuously expanding its worldwide academic network.
