Media Releases

PolyU “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase launch ceremony cum Flag-raising ceremony to celebrate 77th anniversary of founding of the People’s Republic of China

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to promoting Chinese culture. Today, it held the launch ceremony of “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase (the Showcase), marking the official commencement of the two-week event. On the same day, a flag-raising ceremony was also held to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. As a highlight event 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 Showcase presents the deep-rooted connections between Hakka culture and Hong Kong, while promoting cultural exchange, appreciation of heritage and innovation across the Greater Bay Area. Its launch ceremony was officiated by Dr LAM Tai-fai, PolyU Council Chairman; Mr LAI Jianhua, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Huizhou Municipal Committee, Chairman of Huizhou Overseas Friendship Association; Mr HUANG Jingrui, Spokesperson of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR and Director-General of the Department of Media and Public Relations; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President; Dr Daniel YIP, PolyU Deputy Council Chairman; Ms CHEN Xueting, Executive Director of Guangdong Overseas Friendship Association; Mrs LIU FU Yongqin, Deputy Director of the Social Development Division, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Guangdong Province; Dr Katherine NGAN, University Court Chairman; Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost; Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation); Ms YANG Shuoying, Vice Chairman of Huizhou Overseas Friendship Association; Mr ZENG Haisheng, Vice Chairman of Heyuan Overseas Friendship Association; Prof. Ben YOUNG, PolyU Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) and Chairman of PolyU Chinese Culture Festival; Mr OU Huikuan, Deputy Director of the Administrative Committee of Daya Bay Economic Development Zone; and Prof. ZHOU Xiantai, President of Sun Yat-sen University Huizhou Research Institute. Speaking at the launching ceremony, Dr Lam Tai-fai said: “As the ‘PolyU Chinese Culture Festival’ enters its third year, this event takes Hakka culture as its theme, showcasing to our staff, students and the wider community this precious cultural treasure with a long and rich heritage. The Nation’s ‘15th Five-Year Plan’ sets out the goals of enhancing the country’s cultural soft power and promoting Chinese culture. They are not only national strategies, but also the mission for Hong Kong and PolyU. Next year, PolyU will celebrate its 90th anniversary. Over these nine decades, PolyU has always walked alongside Hong Kong and stood in unity with our Nation. We will strive our best in nurturing a sense of national identity and belonging among our young people, supporting Hong Kong in developing into an ‘East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange’, cultivating diverse talent, and contributing to our Nation.” Mr Lai Jianhua said: “The launch of the Showcase at PolyU stems not only from the appeal of Hakka culture, but also from the solid foundation of cooperation between the University and our local community. PolyU-Daya Bay Technology and Innovation Research Institute was officially established in Huizhou in 2024. Through jointly building laboratories, incubating technology enterprises, and nurturing high-calibre talent, it has become an exemplary platform for Huizhou–Hong Kong cooperation. Building on this established platform, we look forward to further expanding practical cooperation with PolyU in areas including Hakka culture research, the digital preservation of intangible cultural heritage, and youth exchange, encouraging more Hong Kong young people to visit Huizhou, gain a deeper understanding of Hakka culture, and participate in the development of the Greater Bay Area.” First event to take the stage is the “Exhibition on the History, Culture, and Prominent Figures of Hakka in the Greater Bay Area”, which will run from today to 16 October. The exhibition introduces Hakka culture in the Greater Bay Area, showcasing the profound shared cultural heritage of the four cities of Huizhou, Heyuan, Meizhou and Shaoguan, 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. After the launch ceremony, the original dance drama “1942 Through the Blockade Line” was performed by the Huizhou Song and Dance Theatre, 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. 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. In addition, 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”, allowing participants to experience the unique charm of Hakka intangible cultural heritage. All activities are free of charge. PolyU students, staff, alumni and members of the public are welcome. For details: https://polyu.me/4rnRwUz. National Day flag-raising ceremony fosters a sense of national identity and belonging PolyU also held a flag-raising ceremony on campus today to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. The ceremony was officiated by Dr Lam Tai-fai, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, Mr Huang Jingrui, and Mr CAO Qifeng, Director of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR. They were joined by representatives of the co-organisers and supporting organisations of the Showcase, members of the Council and Court, other University senior management, University Fellows, Outstanding Alumni, members of the PolyU Foundation, as well as over 700 guests, staff, students and alumni. Together, they extended their best wishes for the prosperity of the Nation and the steady, long-term success of Hong Kong. The ceremony was jointly conducted by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison and the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team. PolyU held a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The ceremony was jointly conducted by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison and the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team. The flag-raising ceremony was officiated by PolyU Council Chairman Dr Lam Tai-fai (12th from left); President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng (10th from left); Mr Huang Jingrui, Spokesperson of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR and Director-General of the Department of Media and Public Relations (11th from left); and Mr Cao Qifeng, Director of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (9th from left). They were joined by representatives of the co-organisers and supporting organisations of “Hakka Heritage in the Bay Area: Shaping a Shared Future” — Greater Bay Area Hakka Cultural Joint Showcase under the PolyU Chinese Culture Festival, members of the Council and Court, other University senior management, University Fellows, Outstanding Alumni, members of the PolyU Foundation, as well as over 700 guests, staff, students and alumni. ***END***

PolyU once again invited by HKSAR Government to create bespoke Neo-Chinese attire for Chief Executive’s wife and female principal officials in celebration of National Day

The School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) was once again invited by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People’s Republic of China to design and produce ten distinctive sets of Neo-Chinese attire for the Chief Executive’s wife, eight female bureau secretaries and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office. Dressed in outfits meticulously created by the PolyU team, they attended the flag-raising ceremony and the National Day reception celebrating the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, as well as other National Day celebrations. The collection showcased the contemporary aesthetics of Chinese culture while highlighting the successful integration of Hong Kong’s creative design excellence and technological innovation. Led by Prof. Jin LAM, Associate Professor of SFT, a team of students and alumni innovatively incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) into the design process. By analysing and referencing the dressing styles, colour preferences and styling characteristics of the Chief Executive’s wife, the female bureau secretaries and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, the team explored design inspirations and created unique, tailor-made garments for each individual wearer. Combining AI-generated insights with professional expertise and judgement, the team further refined and optimised the designs, enhancing efficiency while exemplifying an educational philosophy that values both technological empowerment and human-centred creativity. The ten sets of Neo-Chinese attire blend the aesthetics of traditional Chinese garments with contemporary fashion design. Classic elements such as diagonal-front closures, Mandarin collars and traditional Chinese frog fastenings have been thoughtfully integrated into modern silhouettes and tailoring. Through meticulous craftsmanship and precise cutting techniques, the design team preserved the elegance and cultural essence of Chinese attire while highlighting the individuality and contemporary style of each individual. The collection reflects an innovative fusion of traditional culture and modern design, while underscoring Hong Kong’s distinctive strengths as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. The project also demonstrates PolyU’s success in integrating design education, technological innovation and industry practice. Ms TSANG On-ting, a distinguished alumna of SFT and founder of Gnastiy.com, created Bauhinia brooches using three-dimensional printing technology. By combining advanced manufacturing techniques with a symbol of Chinese culture, the accessories added a unique fashion-tech element to the National Day outfits and showcased the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative capabilities of PolyU alumni in the field of fashion technology. PolyU is committed to promoting Chinese culture through education, research and interdisciplinary collaboration, advancing the preservation and innovative development of Chinese cultural heritage. The University strives to deepen young people’s understanding of Chinese culture and strengthen their cultural confidence. By once again participating in this National Day attire design project, PolyU has further demonstrated its strengths in fashion design, textile technology and creative education, while supporting national and HKSAR Government initiatives to promote Chinese culture and nurture a new generation of talent with global perspectives, innovative thinking and a strong sense of national identity. Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU, said, “PolyU is deeply honoured to once again have been invited by the HKSAR Government to design Neo-Chinese attire for the Chief Executive’s wife and female government officials in celebration of National Day. This invitation not only recognises the University’s educational achievements and professional expertise, but also represents a meaningful contribution to the preservation and promotion of Chinese culture. Our students, alumni and faculty members of SFT have successfully integrated elements of Chinese culture, fashion creativity and AI to bring Chinese aesthetics to life in innovative new ways. Their work demonstrates Hong Kong young people’s deep understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture. Next year marks two important milestones for PolyU: the University’s 90th anniversary and the 70th anniversary of the School of Fashion and Textiles. PolyU will continue to leverage the power of higher education to nurture fashion design talents with professional excellence, innovative thinking and a strong sense of responsibility, enabling them to tell the stories of China and Hong Kong, while contributing to national development and Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.” Prof. Jin Lam said, “This project has provided a valuable experiential platform that brings together cultural heritage, technological innovation and fashion creativity. By combining AI-assisted analysis with professional judgement, students were able to test, validate and refine design decisions throughout a real-world design process, thereby enhancing their professional competencies. We hope that through participating in this culturally significant project, students can deepen their understanding of national development and Chinese culture, strengthen their cultural confidence, and demonstrate the creativity and sense of cultural responsibility of the younger generation.” As a leading hub for nurturing creative talent, PolyU SFT has long been committed to advancing fashion design, textile technology and the cultural and creative industries. This project also serves as a practical example of the School’s integration of digital technology into design education. Through exploring a Digital Co-design Education framework, the initiative aligns with the HKSAR Government’s policy direction on digital education development and offers a sustainable and innovative teaching model for nurturing future fashion design professionals. The School will continue to advance the integration of culture, design and technology through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative design, while promoting the innovative inheritance of outstanding traditional Chinese culture. It will also contribute to Hong Kong’s development as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange and help reinforce its position as Asia’s fashion capital. ***END***

理大與哈爾濱工業大學共同成立深圳國際設計學院及未來設計聯合研究中心 (Chinese only)

Chinese version only

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***

理大與中建香港深化產學研合作 共建聯合實驗室及設立工程獎學金 培育創科建造人才 (Chinese only)

Chinese version only

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***