News

PolyU honours five distinguished graduates at Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2023 Award Presentation Ceremony and Dinner

On 19 December 2023, the University presented the “Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2023” to the five honourees at Hotel ICON. Over 220 guests attended the award presentation ceremony and dinner, including the distinguished graduates and their families and friends, proposers, senior management and staff members of PolyU, as well as dozens of past award recipients who dedicated their time to celebrate this great occasion together and offered all awardees their sincere congratulations. Dr Lam Tai-fai, GBS, JP, Council Chairman of PolyU and Chairman of the Award Selection Committee, and Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, JP, President of PolyU, presented the awards to the five notable alumni. Recipients of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2023, in alphabetical order of last name, are: Prof. Sophia Chan Siu-chee, GBS, JP (Professor of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong; Senior Advisor to the President’s Office, The University of Hong Kong; Director, HKU Primary Health Care Academy); Sr Dr Cheung Tin-cheung, SBS (Chairman, Hong Kong Green Building Council); Prof. To Chi-ho (Visiting Chair Professor of Experimental Optometry, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Scientific Director, Centre for Eye and Vision Research Limited); and Mr Alex Wong Chun-bong (Founder, C. B. Wong & Co.). Recipient of the Outstanding PolyU Young Alumni Award 2023 is: Mr Fang Bing (Co-founder, Hai Robotics). In his welcoming address, Prof. Teng expressed his delight at meeting all the esteemed guests on this occasion. He praised the awardees for their remarkable achievements and the invaluable contributions they have made to both the alma mater and society. He also extended his sincere gratitude to the Award Selection Committee, Faculties and Schools, whose efforts played a key role in ensuring the success of the event. Taking this unique opportunity, the award recipients conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to their proposers, the Award Selection Committee and PolyU, while also feeling thankful that their families and friends have been their pillars of support over the years. The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award aims to give recognition to distinguished graduates of PolyU and its forerunners. Since its launch in 1996, 105 graduates have been honoured for great distinction in their chosen fields, active support to their alma mater, as well as impactful contributions to the wider community. They are fitting testament to PolyU’s accomplishments in nurturing leaders for Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. Please visit here for details of the Award, and click here to view the event photos. More photos and videos will be uploaded onto our website and social media channels – stay tuned. 

PolyU Mainland Graduates 10-Year Reunion

On 16 December 2023, Mainland Graduates 10-Year Reunion was successfully held on PolyU campus. Approximately 60 alumni who graduated in 2013 and other mainland alumni residing in Hong Kong gathered warmly at PolyU. The event was jointly organised by Mainland Development Office and Mainland and International Alumni Sub-committee of Federation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA). Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President, Dr Sean Xu, Assistant Director of Mainland Development, and Ms Joy Wen, Convenor of Mainland and International Alumni Sub-Committee of FHKPUAA, attended. The alumni had the chance to explore several new spots and facilities of the University during the campus tour, including the University Square, the "Researching the Future" Art Tech Exhibition displayed in Jockey Club Innovation Tower, and Alumni Atrium. The alumni were happy to have fun showcasing their remarkable photography skills and creativity at the competition "Finding Santa Buddies @ PolyU Photo Competition". Dr Lou joined the networking luncheon with the alumni, whereas she introduced the latest developments of the University to the alumni who have left PolyU campus 10 years ago. Several alumni shared their post-graduation reflections and expressed their gratitude to their alma mater. The event also was infused with nostalgia with videos and photos from the good old days.

FHKPUAA Board of Directors (2023-2025) inaugurated

The Federation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA) held its Annual General Meeting and elected its new Board of Directors (2023-2025) on 14 December 2023. The Officers were elected in the subsequent Board of Directors Meetings. They are: President Ir Yau Kwok-fai (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumni Association) 1st Vice President Ms Susanna Chan Sau-ha (Alumni Association of Nursing Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University) 2nd Vice President Mr Johnny Shing Wai-lam (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Industrial Centre Safety Course Alumni Association) Honorary Secretary Ir Winky Lui Ka-wing (Hong Kong Polytechnic Mechanical & Marine Engineering Alumni Association) Honorary Treasurer Miss Karen Tam Ka-ying (The Hong Kong Community College Alumni Association, PolyU) Directors (in alphabetical order of last name) Mr Chan Kai-cheung (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design Alumni Association Limited) Miss Cherie Cheuk Pik-ha (The HK PolyU MBA Alumni Association Limited) Mr Bayern Chui Kin-pong (Accounting and Finance Graduates Association of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Limited) Ir Johnny Fan Siu-kay (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Building Association) Mr Ip Chi-kin (Department of Applied Social Sciences Graduates Association of PolyU) Ir Chris Kwan Ho-sum (Alumni Association of Building Services Engineering of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University) Mr Raymond Kwong Chu-ming (The University of Warwick and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Manufacturing Alumni Association Limited) Dr Lianne Lam Ki-wai (The PolyU DBA Alumni Association Limited) Mr Francis Leung Hung-chi (The Electrical Engineering Alumni Association of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Limited) Mr Can Poon Kin-kan (Hong Kong Polytechnic University Electrical & Electronic Engineering Alumni Association) Ms Karen Siu Kam-lin (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Business and Management Association) Mr Simon Tang Sing-lung (PolyU - HKCyberU Alumni Association Limited) Mr Dominic Tse Siu-kei (Alumni Association of Electronic and Information Engineering, PolyU) Miss Joy Wen Yu (Faculty of Humanities Postgraduate Alumni Association of PolyU) Mr Eddy Wu Ka-shing (PolyU MILES Alumni Association Limited) Congratulations to all newly elected Directors of FHKPUAA! We look forward to their continued support for the University and alumni development.

The 40th Graduation Anniversary Reunion of 1983 Accountancy Graduates

To celebrate their 40th Graduation Anniversary, 20 alumni who graduated with a Professional Diploma in Accountancy in 1983 returned to their alma mater for a heartwarming reunion on 1 December 2023.  Representatives from the Alumni Affairs Office (AAO) and the School of Accounting and Finance (AF) warmly welcomed the group at the Alumni Atrium. The alumni were excited to learn about the latest developments at their alma mater, and were delighted to receive special souvenirs that marked the occasion.  The group embarked on a campus tour afterwards. They snapped many photos at the University Square, a new PolyU landmark featuring greenness and vitality. They also visited the Pao Yue-kong Library, where they were impressed by the panoramic views of the campus and the Victoria Harbour on the new sixth floor. Observing students diligently studying in the Library brought back the alumni’s memories of their exam periods as well. Stories from the good old days continued to be recounted as the group reacquainted themselves with buildings, classrooms, and other iconic spots of the University.  The homecoming event concluded with a dinner filled with laughter at a restaurant on campus. They looked forward to the forthcoming celebrations of their 50th Graduation Anniversary!  

Alumni Gather at Alma Mater for PolyU’s 86th Anniversary Flag-raising Ceremony

In celebration of its 86th Anniversary, PolyU held a flag-raising ceremony at the new University Square on the morning of 25 November 2023. Over 500 individuals, including groups of alumni, attended the event. The flag-raising ceremony had profound importance, and the participating alumni were thrilled to celebrate this joyous occasion at their alma mater. Following the ceremony, Ms Maewoon Diana Liu, Director of Alumni Affairs, and Ir Yau Kwok-fai, President of the Federation of PolyU Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA), along with several FHKPUAA Directors, had a tea gathering. The senior alumni made valuable suggestions on strengthening ties between alumni associations, engaging young alumni, and supporting institutional advancement, which would help further promote the development of PolyU’s alumni affairs.

Alumni Tourcation – Let’s Go Behind the “Seams”

On 23 November 2023, the Alumni Affairs Office organised the campus tour “Let’s Go Behind the ‘Seams’”, which received an overwhelming response with over 100 registrations. The event was supported by the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT), leading a group of alumni to explore the latest fashion tech innovations. The participants were initially captivated by the new University Square, a symbolic and iconic campus landmark located in front of the Library. They enjoyed the beautiful scenery at this tranquil escape, marking the beginning of their inspiring adventure.  Representatives from SFT proudly presented their studios and textile workshops, where state-of-the-art facilities are stationed to foster innovative studies and visionary research. The alumni were impressed by the various processes, from spinning to weaving to knitting using the seamless garment machine. Furthermore, SFT remains steadfast in its enduring tradition of leading the fashion industry and creating a societal impact by nurturing students to become future innovative leaders; this mission was clearly demonstrated through the exhibits at the PolyU Fashion Show 2023, which featured a total of 30 collections created by graduating students from the Fashion and Textiles programme. Stay tuned for more themed tours about PolyU’s new features and developments. It’s time to reconnect with your classmates and rediscover your alma mater!   

Hotel ICON festive delicacies for winter

ICONic Winter Festive Feasts It's time to immerse in the joyous atmosphere of the Winter Season at Hotel ICON! Join us for a delightful celebration filled with culinary delights and heartwarming festivities. Indulge in the festive buffet at The Market, where you can savor an array of mouthwatering dishes that capture the spirit of the season. Experience the semi-buffet and afternoon tea at GREEN's, offering a delightful combination of delectable treats and cozy ambiance. For a truly memorable dining experience, join us at Above & Beyond for our special Winter Solstice menu. On the same day, at Silverbox ballroom, indulge in dishes like BBQ suckling pig and Chinese Eight Treasure Pigeon, carefully prepared by our talented chefs. This menu is perfect for family gatherings, and it comes with a bountiful dessert buffet, exciting shows, and engaging activities to ensure that your iconic moments are truly unforgettable. Digital brochure: read online Enquiries or reservations: (852) 3400 1300 or email   A World Astrology GREEN x GODIVA Afternoon Tea Hotel ICON collaborates with the renowned Belgian chocolatier GODIVA to offer "A World Astrology GREEN x GODIVA Afternoon Tea". This delightful experience consists of a three-course meal made with high-quality ingredients from Spain, Malaysia, Japan, France, Norway, and Australia. The menu features delectable appetizers and main dishes infused with GODIVA dark and white chocolate, creating a mouth-watering fusion. The exquisite dessert is designed in the shape of a Celestial Glass Ball. Served alongside a charming "GODIVA Hot Chocolate Reindeer", it promises the ultimate visual and gustatory pleasure. Indulge in heavenly desserts and pastries served on a celestial tea set stand while enjoying unlimited servings of GODIVA soft serve ice cream and a cup of freshly brewed Illy coffee or premium TWG tea. On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, guests are treated to a complimentary glass of French sparkling wine. Date: From 6 November 2023 to 31 January 2024 Time: 3:00pm – 6:00pm Venue: Lobby, GREEN Price: Monday to Friday: HK$388* per person | HK$698* for two persons Saturday, Sunday, Public Holiday: HK$438* per person | HK$768* for two persons (A glass of complimentary French sparkling wine will be provided to each guest) Enquiries: (852) 3400 1300 or email Reservation: online  

Thank you for supporting “Add Meaning to Your Graduation” campaign

The “Add Meaning to Your Graduation” campaign for Class of 2023 has been completed. The net proceeds generated will be used to support the development of PolyU. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all graduates who supported this campaign!  

AlumNews (November 2023) – Living Up to Your Expectations

The Alumni Affairs Office endeavours to serve, connect, and support graduates on all fronts. In this issue of AlumNews, we present our latest initiatives, which include not only event updates but also a video tutorial on how to activate Alumni eCard for campus access. They are highly relevant to all of you!

Alumni Seminar Introduces Digital Currencies to PolyU Community

The Alumni Affairs Office organised the alumni seminar titled “A Cashless Era: What You Need to Know About Digital Currencies” on 1 November 2023. Four professional speakers led both the on-site and online participants to explore the development of digital currencies, understanding the close relationship between these “intangible” assets and our daily lives. The event featured Ms Jennifer Tan and Dr Albert Yip as speakers. Ms Tan, an Accounting graduate, currently serves as the Chief Executive of Alipay Financial Services (HK) Limited and the Executive Vice President, Strategy Development and Government Affairs, GBA, of Ant Group. She began by reviewing the application landscape of various media of exchange, highlighting the fact that the Octopus card, as a widely-used payment tool, has laid the foundation for a “cashless era” in Hong Kong. Driven by the recent surge in e-wallet usage, the future of mobile payments will be further shaped by the collective efforts of enterprises, the general public, as well as other stakeholders. Following Ms Tan’s presentation, Dr Yip, an Information Systems graduate and Chairman of Syndicate Capital Group, explained the concept and development of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). His presentation also included e-HKD, e-CNY and other examples, illustrating the maturing fintech ecosystem and the foreseeable realisation of a “cashless society”. The panel discussion was moderated by Mr Darron Sun, an Information Systems graduate and President of The Computing Alumni Association of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Prof. Brian Kei, a DBA graduate and Professor of Practice (FinTech) at PolyU, also joined as one of the panellists. The audience actively posed questions online and offline, and engaged in exchanges with the four guests. They explored the opportunities and challenges of implementing digital currencies by discussing information security, industry regulations, financial infrastructure and other aspects. The event attracted over 550 registrations and received positive feedback from the participants. We would also like to express our gratitude for all the valuable opinions, which will assist us in organising more content-rich sharing events that keep the alumni community abreast of the latest trends. For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.