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Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2024 – Call for Nominations!

We are excited to announce that the nominations for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2024 are now open! This prestigious award not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of our graduates in their respective fields but also acknowledges their active support of our alma mater. Support and Contribution to PolyU is one of the key selection criteria at all levels. The award recognises excellence in four distinct areas: Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurial Achievement, Scholarly Achievement and Community Service Achievement. Moreover, alumni who are aged at/under 40 would be eligible for the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. The Selection Committee will consist of members from the Department's management team, alumni, and external stakeholders. Award Category Description Professional Achievement This category recognises alumni who have attained distinguished achievements, demonstrated exemplary leadership, and made a strong impact on their profession/ industry/ society.  Entrepreneurial Achievement This category recognizes alumni who have demonstrated outstanding innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as founded or advanced business or technology ventures with impact.   Scholarly Achievement This category recognises alumni scholars who have made notable scholarly or research contributions in their disciplines, with proven track record and excellent reputation in the field.  Community Service Achievement This category recognises alumni who have made impactful contributions to the communities, or demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, volunteerism and/or philanthropy for promoting the wellbeing of the communities. Please download the nomination form HERE for your perusal. Recipients of Department Awards may be nominated for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU at the Faculty Level and University Level. We eagerly anticipate your nominations in recognition of our distinguished alumni by 22 April 2024 (Monday) at 5:00 pm! For any inquiries, please email rs.crm@polyu.edu.hk.  

PolyU hosts seminar on sports physiotherapy Hong Kong’s first professional certificate in sports physiotherapy launched to meet industry demand

In response to the increasing demand for sports physiotherapy professionals, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED) of PolyU, and The Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association (HKPA), hosted a seminar titled “The Opportunity, Rewards, and Challenges as a Sports Physiotherapist”. A groundbreaking Professional Certificate Course in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy was also announced during the event. Esteemed guests attended the seminar including Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Mr WONG Tak Sum, Sam, Commissioner for Sports, Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Sports and Recreation Branch, HKSAR Government; Mr WONG Po Kee, Honorary Deputy Secretary General of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, key faculty members of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and SPEED, and executive committee members of HKPA. Mr Wong Tak Sum, Sam, a retired athlete, shared his insights into the evolution of mass and elite sports in Hong Kong, emphasising the pivotal role played by sports physiotherapists. In addition, prominent athletes, such as basketball player Mr LEE Ki, and footballer Mr YAPP Hung Fai, shared their experiences with sports physiotherapy, along with seasoned sports physiotherapist Ms Bonnie LAU. SPEED and HKPA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly introduce a first-of-its-kind 6-month part-time Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy at HKQF Level 6 in the coming July, which is tailored for registered physiotherapists in Hong Kong who are seeking to specialise in sports physiotherapy. The comprehensive curriculum is designed by specialists from PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, covering essential elements of sports physiotherapy, from “Immediate Care for Emergency, Traumatic, and Medical Conditions”, “Principles of Sports Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation”, to “Exercise training principles”. The programme boasts a team of distinguished tutors, including academics from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and experienced sports physiotherapists from HKPA. Students will be able to gain hands-on experience with on-field physiotherapy services under their guidance. Eligible graduates could apply for credit exemptions when articulating with PolyU’s Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy programme. “We are grateful for the support government showed in developing the field of professional sports physiotherapy,” said Prof. Amy FU, Associate Director of Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology, Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Peter Hung Professor in Pain Management of PolyU, and also the programme coordinator for MSc in Sports Physiotherapy. She added, “With Hong Kong’s athletes gearing up for international and national competitions like the Paris 2024 Olympic Games , the 15th National Games and the FISU World University Games Summer in 2025, and the Asian Games in 2026, the need for qualified sports physiotherapists has never been greater. The launch of this professional certificate course comes at a significant time.” Enrolment for the Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy will open in May 2024. For more details, please visit the website here.

PolyU Introduces Hong Kong’s First Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy

In response to the increasing demand for sports physiotherapy professionals, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED), PolyU, and The Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association (HKPA) announced the launch of a groundbreaking Professional Certificate Course in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy.   Course Details: Date: July 2024 to Jan 2025 (Saturdays/Sundays) Course Fee : HK$25,000 (This course has been included in the list of reimbursable courses under the Continuing Education Fund) Professional Recognition: Professional Certificate awarded by PolyU SPEED Qualifications Framework (QF Level 6) Credit exemptions when articulating with PolyU's Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours upon successful completion of the course   Enrolment for the Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy will open on May 2024. For more information on application procedures and course details, please visit www.speed-polyu.edu.hk or email to ceo@speed-polyu.edu.hk.   Sharing by Mr Salom YIU Kam Shing - Elite Ruby Player:   Sharing by Ms Vera LUI Lai Yiu - Elite Track and Field Athlete:

Dr Chun Liang Hsu Appointed as Kuok Group Young Scholar in Aging and Neuroimaging

A significant acknowledgment of his pioneering research, it is our pleasure to announce that Dr Chun Liang Hsu, Assistant Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, has been appointed as the Kuok Group Young Scholar in Aging and Neuroimaging. This designation under The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)’s Endowed Young Scholars Scheme marks not just a milestone for Dr Hsu but also distinguishes him as the first from our department to receive this prestigious honour. Dr Hsu’s exemplary journey in the field of Rehabilitation Sciences began with his graduation from the University of British Columbia, where he fostered his deep interest and expertise in the intricate aspects of aging, cognition, and mobility. His commitment and dedication to advancing our understanding of these areas were further recognised with the award of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Fellowship, enabling him to pursue postdoctoral training at the renowned Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Harvard Medical School. Using advanced neuroimaging techniques, Dr Hsu’s research offers critical insights into the neural underpinnings of functional impairments among aging clinical populations. His groundbreaking work sheds light on the relationship between cognition and mobility and explores how targeted interventions can enhance cognitive and mobility outcomes. Dr Hsu's comprehensive approach, combining methodologies from magnetic resonance imaging with a hands-on understanding of clinical populations, places him at the forefront of his field. The Endowed Young Scholars Scheme, aimed at fostering young academic talents, recognises the potential of researchers like Dr Hsu to drive transformative changes in their disciplines. This award underscores the joint commitment between PolyU, its benefactors, and outstanding scholars to nurture innovations that have a lasting positive impact on society. By receiving this endowment, Dr Hsu will have access to essential annual funding, promoting further advancements in his influential research into aging and neuroimaging. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Hsu on this prestigious appointment and look forward to the continued impact of his research on understanding and enhancing the lives of aging populations around the globe.

Appointment of RS Academia as Honorary Research Fellow at Hong Kong Police College

Dr Billy So, Assistant Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, has been appointed as an Honorary Research Fellow under the Honorary Research Fellowship Scheme at the Hong Kong Police College on 6 February 2024. This appointment aims to leverage the research expertise of experienced academics to elevate policing standards through evidence-based research initiatives. In his new role, Dr So will collaborate with the School of Foundation Training at the Hong Kong Police College to conduct scientific monitoring of the fitness and well-being development among Police Trainees. This collaboration will involve the use of a newly developed communication platform. Moreover, Dr So will play an important role in educating Police Trainees on the significance of tracking motion and physiological parameters for the advancement of physical fitness and health. This research project stands as a significant opportunity to empower Police Trainees to optimize their performance and resilience within the challenges of law enforcement.

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Inaugurates Master's Programmes for Academic Year 2023/24

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) proudly marked the inauguration of the Master in Physiotherapy (MPT) and Master in Occupational Therapy (MOT) Programmes for the academic year 2023/24 on 2 February. The ceremony, graced by esteemed government officials, underscored the significance of advancing rehabilitation therapy in a rapidly evolving societal landscape, especially in addressing the needs of an ageing society. Distinguished guests including Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare; Ms Leung Yee Lee, Maggie, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation & Medical Social Services), Social Welfare Department, and Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences joined key faculty members of the Department to officiate this momentous occasion. The ceremony commenced with a compelling keynote address by Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, who emphasised the crucial contribution of physiotherapists and occupational therapists in enhancing societal well-being. He encouraged students to embrace their academic journey as a determining period of personal and professional growth. Subsequently, Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, shared a speech as he recalled the inception and evolution of the Master's programmes, emphasising the global trend towards having physiotherapists and occupational therapists as first contact practitioners. A touching sharing session by recent programme graduates added a deeply personal dimension to the ceremony. Graduates including Ms Jaime Cheung, Ms Janna Hui, and Mr Mathew Chan recounted their transformative experiences during the programme, expressing gratitude for the invaluable learning opportunities and the profound impact on their professional journeys. Their stories served as a testament to the programmes’ ability to nurture compassionate, dedicated rehabilitation professionals with genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Under the Training Sponsorship Scheme of the Social Welfare Department, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has been offering the two-year full-time entry-level MPT and MOT programmes in alternate years since 2012, and annually since 2021. Both programmes have been instrumental in training future rehabilitation therapists, contributing to easing of shortages in these vital healthcare sectors.

Celebrating the Spectacular Achievement of RS Student at the 2023 World University Games

We are happy to share that Ms Sham Hui Yu Lydia, a student of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Scheme in Rehabilitation Sciences in Physiotherapy, won the Bronze medal in Women’s Qiangshu at the 2023 World University Games. Her outstanding achievement was celebrated at the "Celebrating Triumphs of PolyU Sportsmen for the 2023 Asian Games and World University Games" event, where she shared her valuable experiences. Let's extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms Sham for this remarkable feat, and we eagerly look forward to witnessing her future successes!

Meet PolyU’s New Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences!

We are excited to announce that with effect from 1 February, Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Director of University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience, has assumed the role of Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Prof. Pang brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, having earned numerous accomplishments for his exceptional contributions to the field of neurological and geriatric rehabilitation. His commitment to translating cutting-edge research into community service programmes aligns perfectly with our department's mission for positively impacting on the lives of people with or without disabilities. We encourage you to connect with Prof. Pang to share your insights and learn more about his vision for the department. Looking ahead, we are confident that this leadership transition will usher in a period of enhanced collaboration, expanded horizons, and new opportunities for growth. We also thank Prof. Hector Tsang for his contribution. During his over six years of headship, RS has made collective achievements, including global recognition for our research endeavours and establishing collaborations with many institutions in Belt Road countries. RS continues to draw the brightest students with the highest average admission DSE scores. These milestones stand as a testament to our unwavering pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. Let's embark on this new chapter together — we look forward to your continued support and active involvement in the vibrant community of rehabilitation sciences at PolyU.

Dr Bolton Chau Awarded Research Grant to Conduct Brain Research

We are thrilled to announce a significant achievement made by Dr Bolton Chau, Associate Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS): he has successfully secured funding from the Research Grants Council Collaborative Research Fund for young researchers. His research project, titled “Exploring the Human Frontopolar Cortex in Decision Making: Neural Network Modeling, Aging, and Enhancement,” receives a substantial grant of HK$4,591,504. In this innovative project, Dr Chau will collaborate with scientists from esteemed institutions including the University of Oxford, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Baptist University, to focus on the investigation of the frontopolar cortex (FPC), a greatly developed region of the human brain. Despite the significance of the FPC, its role in decision-making remains largely unexplored. Using a combination of methodologies including brain imaging, brain stimulation, and artificial intelligence, the project team aims to unravel the mysteries of the FPC. Recent findings on which this research builds are outlined in a published article (see https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(23)00566-1for details). We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Chau on his outstanding accomplishment. In the competitive realm of Young Collaborative Research Grant, Dr Chau’s success highlights his expertise and dedication. This award is not only an honour of RS, but also an encouraging achievement for PolyU academic community at large.

PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences sign MoU to establish first collaboration with a Mongolian tertiary institution

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy of the School of Nursing of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15 January 2024, to strengthen the collaboration of both parties and signify an important step forward in contributing to the Nation’s Belt and Road Initiative. Prof. Kwok-yin WONG, Vice President (Education) of PolyU said in his welcome speech, “We are pleased to announce that the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences is the first tertiary institution in Mongolia to collaborate with PolyU. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences for their efforts in forging connections between the University and Mongolia.” PolyU initiated exchanges with MNUMS last April. Subsequently, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences sent a delegation comprising 16 faculty members and students to participate in the inaugural Mongolian International Conference on Occupational Therapy last June. The MoU signifies formal collaboration between the two institutions, enhancing international academic collaboration and exchanges. It will also provide valuable opportunities for faculty members and students from PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences to broaden their horizons and gain greater international exposure. Backed by its 45-year history in rehabilitation sciences, the Department has shared its knowledge and extensive experience in rehabilitation with their Mongolian counterparts, benefiting the local community and its people. The initial project under this collaboration involves establishing the first Assistive Technology Rehabilitation and Education Centre at MNUMS. Prof. Hector TSANG, Chair Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, and Interim Director of the PolyU Mental Health Research Centre said, “The Assistive Technology Rehabilitation and Education Centre will be Mongolia’s first advanced assistive technology training centre, equipped with a range of advanced equipment, including 3D scanning and printing equipment for rehabilitation, and eye-tracking systems for augmentative and alternative communication. It will play a critical role in advancing training of local rehabilitation professionals and in empowering people with disabilities to be self-reliant. Our team of experts will spare no effort in sharing their expertise and work closely with rehabilitation therapists in Mongolia.” This partnership has paved the way for student exchanges and research collaborations with other Belt and Road countries and regions. PolyU is confident in expanding and deepening its cooperation with MNUMS in the future and looks forward to establishing closer ties with other universities in the region.