The Mental Health Research Centre (MHRC) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted its 2026 Networking Luncheon on 29 May 2026 at Hotel ICON, bringing together over 50 representatives from the Government, the Hospital Authority, non-governmental organisations, charitable foundations and academia to foster interdisciplinary exchange and strengthen collaboration in mental health research and community services.
The luncheon opened with welcoming remarks by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation). Prof. Chao commended MHRC for its notable achievements in interdisciplinary research, academic innovation and collaborative network building since its establishment in 2021. The event was also graced by Dr LAM Ching-choi, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Mental Health of the Health Bureau, HKSAR, and Mr David NG, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation & Medical Social Services) of the Social Welfare Department, HKSAR, who attended as officiating guests and shared their insights on the development of local and global mental health research and community services.
To celebrate the launch of MHRC’s second funding cycle, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held, officiated by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Prof. CHEN Qingyan, Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research, Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Prof. QIU Anqi, Director of MHRC, Prof. Hector TSANG, Co-founder of MHRC, Dr LAM Ching-choi, Mr David NG, and Mr Lawrence CHAN, Founder of the Seal of Love Charitable Foundation.
During the luncheon, Prof. QIU Anqi shared the Centre’s latest research achievements and future strategic directions, highlighting how MHRC integrates neuroscience, artificial intelligence, rehabilitation sciences and social work to develop innovative, technology-driven mental health interventions. The event also provided a valuable platform for dialogue among stakeholders, including representatives from the Lee Hysan Foundation, Seal of Love Charitable Foundation, Bright Future Charitable Foundation, the Hospital Authority and various mental health service organisations.
In closing, Prof. QIU expressed heartfelt gratitude to all partners for their continued support and reaffirmed MHRC’s commitment to advancing mental health research and services through cross-sector collaboration, with the shared goal of building a healthier and more resilient society. MHRC also sincerely thanked all guests for their valuable insights and forward-looking perspectives. The meaningful exchanges throughout the luncheon underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and further strengthened the collective commitment to enhancing mental health and well-being in the community.
| Research Units | Mental Health Research Centre |
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