On day two, Prof. Christopher Chao, together with other leading experts including Prof. Karim Darban from the University of Hassan II Casablanca and Prof. Heng Wang from Singapore Management University discussed key issues in the session "AI Ethics and Governance: Navigating the Path to Responsible Innovation to Achieve SDGs," moderated by Prof. Şirin Karadeniz from Doğuş University. The panel highlighted the importance of education in preparing students to navigate the complexities and biases of AI and emphasised the university's responsibility to provide diverse ideas and resources, while also underscoring the need for comprehensive training to address the legal challenges posed by AI.
In another session, Mr Kelvin Wong discussed the role of universities in driving knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship, emphasising PolyU's commitment to creating a sustainable future. He highlighted the University's focus on translating research into practical solutions for urban resilience, renewable energy and overcoming social challenges, as well as its support for alumni start-ups to stimulate economic growth and global expansion.
On day three, PolyU continued its contribution with effectual exchanges on the role of higher education in advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. In the discussion “The Missing Piece: Enhancing the Role of Universities in Driving Progress Towards the SDGs”, Deputy President and Provost Prof. Wing-tak Wong joined Prof. Dawn Freshwater from The University of Auckland and Dr Matsheliso Molapo from The University of South Africa to critically examine how universities can move from rhetoric to real, measurable progress.
The Congress was filled not only with high-impact discussions, but also with enlightening exchanges of knowledge and memorable networking experiences. The PolyU delegation also showcased the University’s research achievements in deep space exploration, sustainable manufacturing, new materials and new energy, and optometry—highlighting our role in translating research breakthroughs into innovative, practical solutions and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations that contribute to global advancement.
