In March, PolyU welcomed a delegation from the CPC Jinjiang Municipal Committee, led by Mr Wang Mingyuan, Secretary of the CPC Jinjiang Municipal Committee, and Mr Ding Shizhong, Standing Committee Member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Vice Chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and Chairman of Anta Group.

Accompanied by members of the PolyU leadership team, including Council Chairman Dr Lam Tai-fai and President Professor Jin-Guang Teng, the delegation visited the PolyU Industrial Centre to gain insights into the University’s cutting-edge research achievements across diverse disciplines, such as textile technology, sports technology, flexible electronics and artificial intelligence. The visit supported the Nation’s vision to become a sports powerhouse and the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, as outlined in the 15th Five-Year Plan.

At the Industrial Centre, PolyU research teams showcased their groundbreaking projects to the delegation.

During the tour, Dr Lam commended the long-standing partnership with Jinjiang as the first city outside the Greater Bay Area to host PolyU’s Mainland Translational Research Institute, and highlighted PolyU’s mission to contribute to the sports scene in Chinese Mainland. “The University is a patriotic institution committed to nurturing students’ sense of national identity and providing solid support for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation,” Dr Lam emphasised. He also noted that collaboration with Anta Group should extend beyond research to align with national strategies, leveraging PolyU strengths to address National needs. The joint effort between the University and the sportswear company will elevate Chinese brands globally and enhance the country’s influence in the international sports industry.

Professor Teng further elaborated on PolyU’s commitment to integrated development in education, technology and talent under the 15th Five-Year Plan. He stated, “We will step up efforts to take our research outcomes beyond Hong Kong, deepen integration with industries across the country and contribute to the National development agenda.”

Reflecting on the “Jinjiang Experience” – a success story of private economic development driven by innovation – Mr Wang pledged to lead Jinjiang to new heights by harnessing PolyU strengths in technology, talent and innovation. From the industry perspective, Mr Ding expressed strong confidence in PolyU research capabilities, citing Anta Group’s plan to construct a state-of-the-art sports science laboratory in association with the University. By working closely with both local government and enterprises, PolyU plays a pivotal role in reinforcing Jinjiang’s position as an innovation and technology hub.

The delegation participated in the Jinjiang (Hong Kong) Investment Promotion Conference (the Conference), which Professor Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) also attended. During the Conference, Professor Chao shared PolyU’s extensive experience in fostering Jinjiang–Hong Kong ties and the city’s strong culture of industry-academia-research collaboration. Looking ahead, Professor Chao expressed confidence in deepening PolyU's engagement in Jinjiang and expanding all-around cooperation in the I&T sector.