The Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University held its annual retreat on 26-27 May 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Hengqin in Zhuhai, Mainland China. This event brought together teaching, academic, and selected administrative staff to discuss strategies for advancing the department's educational and research goals, as well as promoting the department.
Following an opening address by Department Head Prof. Wu Chen, the first discussion session was led by Prof. Wallace Lai and Prof. Xintao Liu, focusing on the latest initiatives in Learning & Teaching. Participants explored integrating generative AI into Geomatics education and using geo-spatial large language models in teaching. Group presentations highlighted innovative ideas in AI education. Prof. Xintao Liu also announced that LSGI will host the 2nd International Conference on Geomatics Education in December 2025, encouraging staff participation and paper submissions.
After a coffee break, the focus shifted to "Partnership and Strategic Development" introduced by Prof. Yang Xu. Discussions centered on positioning LSGI as a global leader in Geomatics through marketing strategies and industry partnerships. The day concluded with presentations and a summary by Prof. Wu Chen, capturing the essence of the discussions and setting a collaborative tone for the retreat.
On the second day, Prof. Bo Wu shared the LSGI's research performance and updates on the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), calling for further input from colleagues to enhance the Environment Statement in the RAE. Discussions followed on fostering a collaborative research environment and supporting staff in securing major funding. Presentations showcased diverse strategies for impactful research development.
The retreat concluded with a summary by Prof. Wu Chen, emphasizing the strategies developed over the two days. Participants left with renewed insights to advance LSGI's mission.
The LSGI Retreat 2025 underscored the department's commitment to innovation in Geomatics education and research, fostering collaboration to enhance its global impact.