PolyU officially opened the expanded Samsung Digital Lab for Hospitality Technology and the new SHTM premises on 4 March.

Equipped with advanced computing facilities and specialised software for the industry, the expanded Samsung Digital Lab for Hospitality Technology is one of the major facilities in the new premises. The Lab opening ceremony was officiated by Mr Alex Chung, Chief Operating Officer of Samsung Electronics Hong Kong Co Ltd, Professor Timothy W. Tong, PolyU President, Professor Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor of the SHTM, and Mr Terence Ronson, Managing Director of Pertlink.

Recognising the education partnership as a remarkable success, Professor Tong believed that the sponsorship would enable SHTM students to keep abreast of the latest technology available in the industry and enhance their competitive edge. With classes regularly held in the Lab, and Executive Development Programmes making use of the facilities, a broad range of learners as well as researchers will benefit.

Built around a generous sponsorship from Samsung Electronics, the Digital Lab is home to a wide range of computing and audio-visual equipment including 67 sets of 15.6" Wide Screen Notebooks, 40" Full HD LCD iDTVs, 4-in-1 Colour Multi-functional Laser Printers, Projectors and BluRay disc players. All computers are installed with advanced software that facilitates the teaching of subjects including lodging management, revenue management, financial management, convention and event management, e-business, hospitality technology management and data analysis for the industry.

The support of the industry was clearly of vital importance as a new chapter in the SHTM's development opened with staff and students moving into the new SHTM premises. Professor Kaye Chon and his team took the opportunity to introduce the new facilities to guests gathered together at the SHTM Open House function. They proudly showcased new facilities in the SHTM premises, such as the Samsung Digital Lab, the Che-woo Lui Hotel and Tourism Resource Centre, Bistro 1979 (the SHTM's training restaurant), Vinoteca Lab (wine lab) and various function rooms and lecture halls.

As a purpose-driven school, the SHTM constantly pushes into new areas. It is confident that its new approach to hospitality education will help to advance hospitality education everywhere.