As Hong Kong is strengthening its status as an international maritime centre, PolyU has been building the foundation by nurturing the much-needed professionals

When Alex, a 2024 graduate of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies (LMS) at PolyU, reflected on his transformative four-year journey at the University, he credited the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills he gained, which have strengthened his ability to build a promising career in the dynamic and ever-expanding shipping industry.

Additionally, experiences such as study tours to Singapore, internships at major shipping companies, site visits to Container Terminal Eight, and other enriching opportunities provided him with invaluable exposure and the confidence to go above and beyond in his pursuit of success.

Thriving as an international shipping hub

Alex Chiu Ka-chun who graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) degree in International Shipping and Transport Logistics, is setting sail for a promising career in the shipping industry, a sector that has been a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s economy for nearly two centuries.

Alex is among a new generation of talents who would steer and propel Hong Kong’s maritime sector to new heights. For over 180 years, this coastal city on the South China Sea has been a crucial gateway for international trade with China. With its naturally sheltered deep-water harbour, world-class port infrastructure, and strong shipping tradition, Hong Kong has long established itself as a pivotal hub for the global shipping industry. According to the 2024 Xinhua-Baltic: International Shipping Centers Development Index Report, Hong Kong ranked fourth globally. As one of the world’s premier ports, Hong Kong excels in shipping tonnage, cargo handling, and passenger transportation.

 

Further to the endorsement by the Central Government’s National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Chief Executive, in the 2024 Policy Address, outlined the Hong Kong SAR Government’s commitment to enhancing the maritime sector through a comprehensive strategy aimed at reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global shipping hub. The contribution of young professionals is vital to achieving this vision.

Maritime education moving with the times

From its beginnings as a fishing village, Hong Kong has become one of the busiest maritime centres worldwide, driving demand for skilled professionals to meet the industry’s changing needs.

Over the decades, PolyU’s programmes have evolved to align with industry developments. As early as 1937, the Government Trade School—PolyU’s predecessor— pioneered maritime education with training in marine wireless operations. Initially focused on vocational training for deck and electronic officers, PolyU, since 1989, has expanded its curricula to include ship management education for aspiring onshore managers.

In 2008, LMS introduced academic programmes from subdegree to PhD levels, benchmarked against international standards and meeting the criteria set by major professional associations and global accrediting bodies.

The University consistently updates its curricula by gathering input from international scholars, shipping experts, and alumni, enhancing the relevance of its programmes, aligning them with industry demands, and equipping graduates with essential skills.

Professor Mike Lai, Chair Professor and Interim Head, LMS, said, “Today, the global port industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) at the forefront of smart ports development.” Professor Lai believes that equipping talents with the necessary knowledge in the latest technology is critical to driving this development.

Currently, as the sole provider of maritime education at the tertiary level in Hong Kong, PolyU will continue to nurture generations of professionals to navigate in an ever-evolving global shipping industry, contributing to the development and prosperity of the city as an international shipping centre.

AI-empowered maritime education

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, including maritime. LMS integrates big data and AI into its educational programmes, with initiatives like the PolyU Maritime Data and Sustainable Development Centre (PMDC). This AI-driven research centre analyses datasets such as ship positions, satellite imagery, and port data for research and education. Students can access this data for academic work and participate in research projects. They are also encouraged to join AI-related competitions, such as the AIS Hackathon by the United Nations, in which a team from LMS and Tsinghua University won third place in 2020.

LMS engages in maritime projects for government entities, including the Marine Department, the Tourism Commission, and the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department, allowing students to join research teams and experience AI’s impact on the industry, enriching their learning journey.

Onboard ocean-going vessels

LMS students have the opportunity to enjoy the annual Ocean-going Experience Programme (OGEP) in which they will not only gain valuable maritime knowledge in a practical setting, but also be able to receive essential seafarer certificates.