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PolyU Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology hosts forum to envision future of new energy vehicles in Hong Kong

The Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the PolyU Research Centre for Electric Vehicles (RCEV) and The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE), hosted the forum “The Future of New Energy Vehicles in Hong Kong” on 22 October 2024. The event brought together leading experts and representatives from the Government and industry to provide insights into the latest developments in new energy vehicles, covering governmental policies, technological advancement, and industry perspectives crucial for shaping the future of transportation in a sustainable city. Over 130 PolyU faculty members, students, alumni and industry partners attended. In his welcoming speech, Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Director of PReCIT, highlighted a statistic from the Hong Kong Transport Department: from the beginning of 2024 to October, the first registration rate of new energy vehicles in the commercial sector is relatively low at 7.6%, suggesting there is significant room for I&T development and policy refinement for more effective promotion of heavy new energy vehicles. He welcomed the Government’s efforts to further accelerate the development of new energy, as well as the launch of the Subsidy Scheme for Trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Heavy Vehicles as outlined in the recent Policy Address. Dr Hon CHAN Han-pan, Member of the Legislative Council, delivered opening remarks on the topic “Future Development of New Energy Vehicles in Hong Kong”. He pointed out some of the challenges of adopting new energy vehicles in Hong Kong and called for the establishment of electric vehicles charging facilities on rural land and the introduction of Chinese new energy vehicles in the City. He emphasised that promoting new energy vehicles is a pressing matter in the context of a response to the Government’s plan to cease new registration of fuel-propelled and hybrid private cars in 2035 or earlier. Mr Eric WONG Lui, Assistant Director of the Gas and General Legislation Branch of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), introduced the latest developments related to hydrogen energy in Hong Kong, including the practice of green transportation by adopting clean hydrogen and related legislative amendments. Mr Wong mentioned workforce training for new energy vehicles. With facilitation of EMSD, a local leading provider of vocational and professional education and training will launch three training courses - hydrogen fuel awareness, registered hydrogen vehicle mechanics and competent persons trainings next year. He also highlighted that the Master of Science in Electric Vehicles offered by PolyU Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering contributes to nurturing specialised professionals for Hong Kong. Dr Kenneth LEUNG Kai-ming, Ex-Principal Assistant Secretary for the Environment and Ecology Bureau, explained the environmental benefits of implementing zero-emission operations. He detailed the Government’s efforts over the past two decades to foster sustainable transportation development in Hong Kong, including the establishment of the New Energy Transport Fund, introduction of the first registration tax concessions, the One-for-One Replacement Scheme for electric vehicles and EV-charging at Home Subsidy Scheme. Following implementation of these schemes, the overall air quality in Hong Kong has shown a discernible improvement, with significant reductions in roadside air pollutants. Prof. C.C. CHAN, Distinguished Chair Professor of Electric Vehicles and Smart Energy and Director of PolyU RCEV, explained the new journey of electric vehicle revolution is from electrification to intelligence and connectivity of electric vehicles. He analysed two major challenges within this transition, including the harmonious interaction between electric vehicles and power grids, as well as the integration of people, vehicles, roads and the cloud,  along with the development of related standards. Referencing the success of the Chinese automotive industry in replacing traditional production methods characterised by high inputs, high consumption and high emissions with three green new productivity factors of high technology, high efficiency and high quality. Through innovations and policies, new energy vehicles are being adopted, thereby gradually progressing towards smart cities. Mr Aaron BOK Kwok-ming, Past President of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and former Head of the Civil Engineering Office of the Civil Engineering and Development Department, believes that targeted subsidies can attract the public to adopt new energy and hydrogen vehicles. He encouraged collaboration between sectors, including the Government, real estate and tech firms, to advance the technology and streamline various regulatory process for electric vehicle charging installations and, in turn, help scale the necessary infrastructure. Mr ZHANG Qi, Head of the Hong Kong R&D Center of NETA, examined the collaborative forces within the industry chain, promoting productivity excellence for Hong Kong. He envisioned that in the next three to five years, new energy vehicle technology will be rapidly mature, with innovative technologies leading industry development. Notably, intelligent driving technology will be transformative, altering car attributes and driving a complete restructuring of the automotive industry. Dr Oscar CHAN, Research Assistant Professor of PReCIT and of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering of PolyU, shared outcomes of the project “Assessing the Adaptation of New Energy Vehicles in Hong Kong: The Future of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles and Electric Vehicles”, which is funded by the Government’s Public Policy Research Funding Scheme. He stated that accelerating innovations in the production, transportation, and storage of hydrogen energy, and the achievement of larger coverage of “green” and “blue” hydrogen, will help promote hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and help meet the long-term environmental goals of the city. The panel discussion session, moderated by Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of the Department of Applied Social Sciences of PolyU and Co-Director of PReCIT, invited keynote speakers to exchange insights on best practices and future trends of new energy vehicles in relation to various topics. He also added that the development of new energy vehicles contributes to promoting sustainability, benefiting future generations, and enhancing people’s happiness. The exchange of insights would set the stage for PReCIT to recommend forward-thinking, long-term and strategic policies.

25 Oct, 2024

Events

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PolyU develops innovative welding technology for ultra-high strength S960 steel making its debut in Hong Kong public works project

S960 steel is lighter and stronger than commonly used S355 steel, making it an effective material for bridge construction. However, the welding process can reduce its mechanical properties, limiting its applications. A research team from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has developed a welding technology for efficient applications of ultra-high strength S960 steel. By precisely controlling the heat input during welding, the mechanical properties of the steel are maintained. This innovation has been adopted in recent footbridge construction in the Fanling North New Development Area, marking Hong Kong’s first public works using S960 steel, and facilitating innovative application of high-strength steel in bridge construction.  S960 steel is an efficient structural steel known for its remarkable strength. It meets stringent requirements stipulated in many material specifications and structural design codes, making it widely applicable in the construction of high-rise buildings and long-span structures such as sports and exhibition centres. However, the mechanical properties of S960 steel may undergo significant changes during welding, resulting in reductions of both strength and ductility of up to 20% to 30%. Led by Prof. Kwok-fai CHUNG, Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Director of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) (CNERC) of PolyU, the research team has developed an innovative solution to maintain the mechanical properties of the S960 steel, by examining effects of heat input energy during welding onto the S960 steel through experimental investigations and numerical simulations. In collaboration with a local steel fabricator, the research team concludes that there are optimal ranges of heat energy for different weld joint designs for S960 steel of various thicknesses which minimise or even eliminate adverse effects of welding. As demonstrated in a recent project undertaken by the Civil Engineering and Development Department of the Government of the HKSAR, this solution has been adopted in two segments of a footbridge in the first phase of the Fanling North New Development Area – Fanling Bypass Eastern Section (Shek Wu San Tsuen North to Lung Yeuk Tau). The two segments were designed as stiffened box girders made of the S960 steel and were fabricated in a factory with effective control of the welding processes.  Site assembly of these two segments of the foot bridge was completed in September this year. The new welding technology enables the use of thinner and fewer steel materials, thereby reducing the self-weight of the footbridge, and hence, the number of foundation piles required. This, in turn, has led to decreased carbon emissions and enhanced sustainability. Prof. Chung said, “We are dedicated to conducting impactful research on the scientific understanding, engineering principles and design guidance needed to facilitate engineers in adopting high-strength S690 and S960 steel in construction, setting a precedent for modern steel construction. The Fanling North project is a good example of using S960 steel for construction in Hong Kong and provides valuable reference for formulatingrelevant technical guidelines and specifications for future use.” The technology developed by Prof. Chung’s research team for the effective application of the S690 steel has been implemented in various infrastructure projects, including the Double Arch Steel Bridge of the Cross Bay Link in Tseung Kwan O, the long-span roof structures of the Kowloon Tsai Swimming Pool, and the steel roofs of both the East and West Stands of the Yuen Long Stadium (which is currently under construction).

24 Oct, 2024

Research and Innovation

Prof Zhao Yanxiang

Media Interview: Exploring AI's potential in advancing drug development

Drug development is a complex and challenging process in whichwhere scientists meticulously screen a large number of candidate compounds to ultimately develop an effective lead drug. With advancements in science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a tool for extracting valuable information from massive datasets. In particular, AI is instrumental in analysing DNA sequences to identify disease-causing genes and risk factors. In a recent media interview, Prof. Zhao Yanxiang, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), shared the potential of AI in driving drug development and the latest research on applied biology and chemical technology. Prof. Zhao said in the interview, “In the application of AI in various fields, it is more like a “super parrot,” which can imitate and replicate. However, there is still a substantial journey ahead from zero to one.” While AI can accelerate the screening process and enhance efficiency, it also unlocks new possibilities in drug development. However, in the realm of drug research, the practical application of AI still encounters constraints due to the diversity and abundance of drugs worldwide. It is still mainly used as an auxiliary tool. Moving ahead, data collection and labelling by AI should be strengthened in the future to unleash the potential of AI, thereby promoting the discovery and development of new drugs. In addition, the rising incidence of cancer has heightened public demand for new treatments. Increased scientific research investment is needed in cancer and central nervous system (CNS) diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and mental illness to understand their pathogenesis and treatments options. Prof. Zhao is optimistic about future drug research and development, particularly regarding new treatment modalities such as nucleic acid drugs and cell therapies. For instance, nucleic acid drugs and cell therapy have demonstrated significant progress. Scientific research and technological advancement have made mRNA drugs feasible, with some drugs capable of effectively crossing the blood-brain barrier. Cell therapy also presents further possibilities in treating CNS diseases by directly introducing new neurons into the brain to replace those died due to aging.

23 Oct, 2024

Research and Innovation

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Insightful discussions at the Better Web3 Forum 2024: Blockchain Technology Frontiers hosted by The Research Centre for Blockchain Technology of PolyU

Better Web3 Forum 2024, hosted by The Research Centre for Blockchain Technology (RCBT) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), and co-organised by the Department of Computing, the Research and Innovation Office, and the PolyU and Cybaverse Academy Joint Lab on Law and Web3, concluded successfully on 19 October. This year’s theme, "Blockchain Technology Frontiers" highlighted cutting-edge innovations, advancements and real-world applications of Web3 and Blockchain technology. The event brought together industry leaders, esteemed scholars, and the next generation of talent to exchange ideas and engage in meaningful discussions. Now in its second year, the forum continues to expand as a vital platform for bridging academic advancements with industry innovation, facilitating the exploration of the latest developments in Web3 and blockchain. Prof. Allen Au, Professor and Associate Head (Research and Development) of Department of Computing at PolyU stated, “The global community is in a critical phase of developing the technologies for the Web3 ecosystem, which is set to significantly impact both industries and society. Academia serves as a vital bridge, facilitating collaboration between researchers and industry leaders to drive innovation in the rapidly evolving Web3 landscape. At PolyU, we aim to be at the forefront of this endeavor.” Prof. Daniel Luo, Professor of Department of Computing and also Director of RCBT at PolyU stated, “The Research Centre for Blockchain Technology is dedicated to fostering innovative solutions and applications in the Web3 landscape. This forum offers a unique opportunity to engage in collaboration and exchange ideas with industry leaders, the public, and emerging talent, thereby catalyzing the growth of Web3 in Hong Kong.” The forum featured keynote speeches by Prof. Claudio J. Tessone, Professor of Blockchain & Distributed Ledger Technologies of Department of Informatics at University of Zurich, who offered insights into how design choices and user behavior shape decentralization, fairness, and arbitrage dynamics in Web3 through data-driven analysis; and Prof. Yajin Zhou from Zhejiang University and BlockSec, who discussed lessons learned and new developments in DeFi protocol security. These thought-provoking keynote speeches were followed by an engaging panel discussion moderated by Prof. Andy Chun. The panel featured industry experts: Mr. Sean Lee, Mr. Simon Lee, Mr. Curt Shi, Mr. Otto Lee, and Mr. David Alexander Scheer. The panelists shared their views on topics ranging from the evolution of stablecoins to the societal impact of Web3 technologies, offering forward-thinking perspectives on the role of Web3 in shaping future economies and industries. The forum attracted diverse participants, reflecting growing interest in the transformative potential of Web3. Attendees took part in meaningful discussions and networking sessions, exchanging ideas on how to leverage Web3 and Blockchain technology for real-world applications. With this year's event marking another successful chapter, the Research Centre for Blockchain Technology looks forward to further expanding its role in advancing Web3 and Blockchain technologies.

21 Oct, 2024

Events

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PolyU welcomes alumni and friends to InnoTech Open Day × Alumni Homecoming 2024, witnessing the University’s remarkable I&T and entrepreneurship development

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today held the InnoTech Open Day × Alumni Homecoming 2024 on campus to showcase the University’s impactful achievements in interdisciplinary research, knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship that contribute to Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. The InnoTech Open Day showcased PolyU research and entrepreneurial outcomes, providing valuable opportunities for its faculty members, students, alumni, I&T entrepreneurs, industry partners and researchers to explore collaboration opportunities. The Alumni Homecoming Day, held in the afternoon, featured a variety of fun-filled activities for PolyU alumni, including campus adventures, activities for kids, sports and a talent show that enabled alumni to reunite on campus and witness the remarkable advancement of their alma mater. The event was attended by over 7,800 alumni and friends. The officiating guests at the opening ceremony included Ms Cheng WU, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Hon. Mr Duncan CHIU, a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council (Functional Constituency - Technology and Innovation) and PolyU Court member; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President; Dr Lawrence LI, PolyU Deputy Council Chairman; Dr Roy CHUNG Chi-ping, Honorary Court Chairman of PolyU;Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost; Dr Miranda LOU, PolyU Executive Vice President; and Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation). Hon. Mr Duncan Chiu said, “PolyU is well respected for its pursuit of academic excellence and groundbreaking innovations. Over its 87-year history, PolyU has been a nurturing ground for top-tier talents, a cradle for pioneering technical advancements, and a powerhouse for transformative innovations. Today’s event showcases PolyU’s exciting innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives. It is my hope that the event will spark mutually-beneficial exchanges between PolyU researchers and industry leaders. I also encourage you to engage with PolyU’s talented researchers to share valuable insights into market and social needs and explore potential collaboration and technology transfer opportunities.” “PolyU has consistently been at the forefront of supporting Hong Kong’s economic and social progress. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of achieving university status, we have strived to nurture the talent society needs, adapting to its evolving demands—from manufacturing to services. Our dedication to innovation is evident in our impressive research growth, with our research staff doubling in just five years, alongside the establishment of PAIR and our Mainland translational research institutes,” said Prof. Jin-Guang Teng. “With half a million graduates, PolyU proudly holds the largest alumni community in Hong Kong. We are committed to strengthening our connection with alumni, supporting their career advancement, and fostering mutually beneficial collaborations. Together, we can address the unprecedented challenges of today while contributing to the development of Hong Kong, our Nation, and the world.” Dr Lawrence Li remarked, “To uphold its motto, ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’ and align with recent resolutions from the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China which emphasised the Nation’s modernisation and innovation-driven development, PolyU is actively contributing to the advancement of innovation and technology in Hong Kong, our country, and beyond through its unique PolyImpact and PolyVentures startup ecosystem. The former transforms research excellence into real-world solutions addressing significant global challenges, while the latter offers comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs and startups.” At the opening ceremony, PolyU also signed cooperation agreements with eight companies to establish strategic partnerships. The parties will leverage their respective strengths in research and industry to nurture I&T leaders and entrepreneurs, with a view to super-charging the impact of PolyVentures, accelerating incubation and growth of startups, and providing more comprehensive support for PolyU students, alumni and academics who are committed to entrepreneurship. The companies and organisations involved are Beijing Iestreet Holding Limited, Hangzhou Innovation Incubation Center (Hong Kong) Limited, Hong Kong Kowloon Group, PanMediso Holdings (Shenzhen) Limited, Qianhai International Intellectual Property Comprehensive Operation Service Centre, SIMIC Holdings Company Limited, Sun Wah Group and Surrich International Company Limited. In addition, PolyU honoured six young researchers with the Young Innovative Researcher Award 2024 in recognition of young researchers with outstanding research capabilities. Three scholars and one team were presented with The President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement 2023 in recognition of their distinguished accomplishments and contributions in the areas of research and scholarly activities, as well as knowledge transfer. The InnoTech Open Day, the University’s flagship I&T event, showcased the remarkable creativity of the PolyU community through a variety of exhibitions, seminars, forums and startup showcases. The Department of Aeronautical and Aviation Engineering demonstrated autonomous drone parcel delivery in urban areas, with which it aims to inspire the development of a low-altitude economy in Hong Kong. Additionally, a robot with new wireless charging technology developed by the Research Centre for Electric Vehicles was showcased to promote the technology for electric vehicle. PolyU young and excellent scholars, along with 17 research institutes and research centres under PAIR, and 18 PolyU-nurtured startups, also exhibited a wide range of inspiring inventions and achievements enabled through industry-academic-research collaborations and entrepreneurship. The innovations included a novel 3D model depicting the topography and landscape of the lunar south pole, a pipeline defect detection robot and a vision training VR device. Some showcases offered experience activities, including a portable non-invasive system for liver fibrosis assessment, and a smart wheelchair capable of navigating rough terrains like grassland, beaches and stairs. Another highlight was a sharing session, designed to broaden the horizons of young entrepreneurs, by PolyU alumnus Mr SHEN Peng, Founder and CEO of Waterdrop Inc., a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange with a market value of nearly US$420 million, who shared his journey to entrepreneurial success, elaborating on how he transformed his start-up company into a leading insurance technology and healthcare platform in Mainland China. Representatives from incubation and investment platforms in mainland China also gave their insights into the opportunities and challenges of investment in the region, providing valuable inspiration for those wishing to start their own business. As the annual signature event for PolyU alumni, the Alumni Homecoming Day received the enthusiastic support of over a hundred alumni. Participants enjoyed various exciting activities, including campus adventures, thematic guided tours and an Outstanding PolyU Alumni jogging tour. A group of alumni presented a vibrant showcase that included Chinese and western music, dance, taekwondo, a magic show and a choir performance. The event also featured a friendly futsal match, Ping-Pong demonstration match, along with Ping-Pong training sessions and play zones for kids. Meanwhile, special booths hosted by various faculties, schools, departments and alumni associations showcased numerous creative achievements, including ReST Hub, a flexible scoliosis brace with an artificial hinge, and speech therapy games. Prof. WU Bo, Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, introduced a novel 3D model depicting the topography and landscape of the lunar south pole. PolyU Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things showcased a real-time pipeline defect detection robot. A PolyU-nurtured startup showcased “Vcare” , a device that offers personalised vision correction training for myopia, amblyopia and strabismus. A PolyU-nurtured startup showcased “Liverscan®”, a portable non-invasive system for liver fibrosis assessment. A PolyU-nurtured startup showcased a smart wheelchair capable of navigating rough terrains like grassland, beaches and stairs. ***END***

19 Oct, 2024

Events

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PolyU and XORI signed MoU to collaborate across multiple sectors in environmental engineering

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) took a significant step forward by signing a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with XORI Holding S.r.l (XORI) on 16 October, establishing a solid foundation for collaborative efforts in research, talent cultivation, and knowledge transfer. By leveraging the strengths and deepening the partnership, PolyU and XORI will explore opportunities to strengthen research collaboration in smart cities, environmental engineering, and environment, social, and governance (ESG). The MoU signing ceremony was graced by Prof. Christina Wong, Director of Research and Innovation of PolyU and Mr Luca Rollino, Chairman of XORI, as the esteemed signatories to this momentous collaboration. Under the MoU, this industry-academic collaboration proactively translates research outcomes into practical solutions aimed at fostering livability and sustainability in communities across Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. In addition, a PolyU delegation led by XORI visited the Polytechnic University of Turin, Unione Industriali Torino, and the National Automobile Museum in Italy, to explore potential synergies in research across art, design, culture, and technology, paving the way for multidisciplinary collaborations. XORI, an international group that integrates a spectrum of specialised entities spanning engineering, architecture, energy, and consulting, is committed to designing green solutions that minimise environmental impact and contribute to the creation of more sustainable cities.

18 Oct, 2024

Partnership

Screenshot 2024-10-21 142820

Fostering Innovation: The Impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Research

At The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), researchers from diverse cultures, backgrounds and disciplines come together to merge their expertise, propelling advancements in research and technology innovation. Join us in celebrating the Global Diversity Awareness Month by embracing the wealth of differences and inclusion to foster innovations for a sustainable community. PolyU researchers across various disciplines, including applied science, computing, business, design, engineering, linguistics, rehabilitation science, and tourism, share their research journey, embracing the values of diversity, equity and inclusion. The university offers ample research opportunities that foster idea exchange and drive innovative breakthroughs.

17 Oct, 2024

Research and Innovation

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PolyU showcases latest space research excellence at Milan IAC2024

The 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2024) is being held in Milan on 14-18 October. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), as the first Hong Kong educational institution to attain membership in the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), has participated in IAC 2024 as a bronze sponsor and an exhibitor. With a deep foundation in aerospace research and practical experience in national space missions, PolyU has showcased 7 space-related research projects in the Congress and fostered communication and technology exchanges between PolyU researchers, aerospace experts, and entrepreneurs worldwide. Attracting over 16,000 participants from more than 120 countries and regions, IAC2024 serves as an excellent platform to exchange ideas and showcase our cutting-edge research and innovations in the field of space science and technology.  

16 Oct, 2024

Events

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PolyU and Sun Yat-sen University collaborate to cultivate interdisciplinary medicine-engineering talent to support the long-term development of the healthcare system and to boost Hong Kong’s biomedical industry

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) yesterday to initiate education and research collaboration in interdisciplinary medicine and engineering. This partnership aims to jointly cultivate medical professionals, develop new programmes in medical technology, establish joint laboratories, facilitate academic and professional exchanges, and enhance collaborative research outcomes. By leveraging the strengths of both institutions, the collaboration will promote the novel development in interdisciplinary medicine and engineering, help to alleviate the pressures on Hong Kong’s healthcare system, elevate clinical medical research, and support the development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) into an international health and medical innovation hub. The signing was witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, and Prof. YANG Qinghua, Executive Vice President of SYSU. Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences of PolyU, and Prof. KUANG Ming, Dean of Zhongshan School of Medicine of SYSU, signed the MOU on behalf of both parties. The two institutions will focus on exploring educational and research collaboration in interdisciplinary medicine and engineering, including the integration of PolyU’s niche disciplines with the clinical medical expertise of the SYSU Zhongshan School of Medicine. Both institutions plan to jointly offer an eight-year (four plus four) dual bachelor’s degree programme in medicine and explore a dual degree professional doctorate programme in medicine and engineering. The initiative aims to cultivate students with expertise in medicine and engineering and to facilitate graduates in obtaining cross-border medical practice qualifications that are recognised in both Hong Kong and Mainland China. Prof. Wing-tak Wong stated, “This collaboration is a significant step towards PolyU’s goal of establishing a medical school. As one of the world’s top 100 universities, PolyU boasts strong capabilities in health science and engineering. The Zhongshan School of Medicine at SYSU is renowned for its foundational and clinical medicine disciplines, recognised as ‘Double First-Class’ disciplines. Together, we can harness the advantages of ‘medicine-engineering integration’ to create synergies in cutting-edge research and clinical medicine, foster the integrated development of the medical and healthcare disciplines, nurture more clinical medical talents, and meet the high demand for quality healthcare services in Hong Kong and the GBA.” Prof. Kuang Ming stated, “The Zhongshan School of Medicine of SYSU has maintained close ties with PolyU. Over the years, the Zhongshan School of Medicine has provided a high-quality teaching platform for cultivating top medical talent and offering strong academic support for medical services. PolyU has a long history in teaching and research of health science, training numerous allied healthcare professionals who are familiar with the operation of the public healthcare system and are well-positioned to extend medical training to medical students. With the development of artificial intelligence and robotics, there is an increasing demand in the GBA for medical talent with a ‘medicine-engineering integration’ background. This collaboration is expected to achieve complementary advantages, advance medical education and curriculum innovation, and address the long-term medical talent needs of the GBA.” The current population of the GBA has reached 86 million, with an increase of over 440,000 permanent residents last year. The population of the Northern Metropolis will reach 2.5 million, which is one-third of Hong Kong’s total population. This highlights the urgent demand for high-quality medical services in Hong Kong and the GBA. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate medical students with knowledge in both medical and engineering technologies. Additionally, the HKSAR Government hopes to leverage Hong Kong’s medical strengths to fully promote the development of the biomedicine and medical device industries, which will increase the demand for talent in clinical medical technology. PolyU has a solid foundation and extensive experience in health science education and research, supported by world-class facilities. The University has submitted a proposal to the HKSAR Government for the establishment of a PolyU satellite campus in the Northern Metropolis with a medical school. We hope the new medical school will help ensure the quality and sustainability of future medical services. Over the past 40 years, PolyU has nurtured over 50,000 allied healthcare professionals in various disciplines, including medical laboratory science, medical imaging, radiotherapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, optometry, prosthetics and orthotics, and speech therapy, supporting the long-term development of the healthcare system. The University has established strong collaborative relationships with hospitals under the Hospital Authority, private hospitals, and other medical institutions. PolyU also excelled in various disciplines globally, including engineering, data science and AI, and nursing. The collaboration between PolyU and SYSU is expected to leverage their strong capabilities in clinical medicine and engineering, further deepening clinical medical cooperation across the border. This will facilitate “medicine-engineering integration” and cultivate more interdisciplinary medicine-engineering talent for Hong Kong and the GBA.

15 Oct, 2024

Events

20241014---Nature

PolyU UBSN’s Multidisciplinary Neuroscience Research Platform Featured in Nature

The University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience (UBSN) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers a state-of-art technological platform to foster multidisciplinary research in neuroscience. PolyU researchers from diverse fields, including rehabilitation sciences and neurolinguistics, shared their experiences in the latest Nature Index Neuroscience, illustrating how UBSN aids in their progressive research and impactful discoveries.  Prof. Marco Pang, Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Director of UBSN, discussed how his research team harnesses advanced imaging technology to track changes in the brain following physiotherapy for better stroke rehabilitation.  Dr Georg Kranz, Presidential Young Scholar and Associate Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, elaborated on his application of brain stimulation technology at UBSN for research in depression treatments.  Dr CaiCai Zhang, Associate Professor of the Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies, shared her research team’s application of neural imaging technology and machine learning approaches for the study of child language development.  See more: https://www.nature.com/articles/d42473-024-00315-9  

15 Oct, 2024

Research and Innovation

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