PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences successfully hosted the 2nd International Conference on Teaching and Learning Innovations in Rehabilitation Sciences on 11 and 12 December 2025. Prof. Cao Jiannong, Vice President (Education) of PolyU (centre); Prof. David Shum, Yeung Tsang Wing Yee and Tsang Wing Hing Professor in Neuropsychology, Chair Professor of Neuropsychology and Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at PolyU (3rd from left); and 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 the University Research Facility in Behavioural and Systems Neuroscience at PolyU (3rd from right) and four keynote speakers joined the opening ceremony.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Cao Jiannong emphasised the importance of educational innovation.
Prof. David Shum highlighted the university’s commitment to leading-edge education.
Prof. Marco Pang presented souvenirs to the four keynote speakers: (from the left) Prof. Euson Yeung of the University of Toronto; Prof. Nerina Scarinci of The University of Queensland; Prof. Marco Pang; Prof. May Lim from the Singapore Institute of Technology; and Prof. Shirley Ngai of PolyU.
The conference brought together over 1,000 students, educators, researchers, academics and practitioners from Hong Kong, Asia Pacific and North America to share the latest advancements and innovative practices in the field.
(12 December 2025) The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully hosted the 2nd International Conference on Teaching and Learning Innovations in Rehabilitation Sciences on 11 and 12 December 2025. Organised by PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, the event brought together over 1,000 students, educators, researchers, academics and practitioners from Hong Kong, Asia Pacific and North America to share the latest advancements and innovative practices in the field.
The conference served as a dynamic platform for exploring the future of rehabilitation sciences education. Highlights included sessions on global perspectives in healthcare education, the integration of artificial intelligence in rehabilitation, and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping patient care and professional training. The event aimed to foster collaboration and inspire new approaches to teaching and learning in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Undergraduate and post-graduate students also presented their creative research projects at the conference.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Cao Jiannong, Vice President (Education) of PolyU, emphasised the importance of educational innovation. He stated, “Rehabilitation sciences are advancing rapidly, driven by technological breakthroughs and evolving patient needs. As educators and practitioners, we have a responsibility to ensure that our teaching methods and curricula keep pace with these changes. Innovation in education is not simply an option; it is essential for preparing the next generation of professionals who will lead this transformation.”
Prof. David Shum, Yeung Tsang Wing Yee and Tsang Wing Hing Professor in Neuropsychology, Chair Professor of Neuropsychology and Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at PolyU, highlighted the university’s commitment to leading-edge education. “Our mission goes beyond imparting knowledge; we strive to create transformative learning experiences that prepare graduates to meet complex challenges in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. By integrating technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and embracing global perspectives, we ensure that our students are equipped with the skills and adaptability needed for tomorrow’s world.” The conference successfully showcased this vision, reinforcing PolyU’s position as a global leader in rehabilitation sciences.
Distinguished international keynote speakers shared their expertise on critical topics. Prof. Nerina Scarinci of The University of Queensland discussed patient- and family-centred communication. Prof. May Lim from the Singapore Institute of Technology addressed the role of AI in rethinking learning and assessment. Prof. Euson Yeung of the University of Toronto challenged educators to evolve assessment practices in the age of generative AI, while PolyU’s own Prof. Shirley Ngai presented on transforming physiotherapy education with AI-enhanced simulation.
The conference concluded with a resounding commitment to advancing rehabilitation sciences through innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education. This event not only highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches but also reaffirmed the critical role PolyU in shaping the future of rehabilitation and improving lives worldwide.
