News

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.

Visit from Hong Kong PolyU (United Kingdom) Association

On 24 October 2023, the Alumni Affairs Office welcomed two overseas alumni, Dr Henry Lu and Ms Anita Chan, who are Vice President and Director of the Hong Kong PolyU (United Kingdom) Association. They made a long journey from London, and were glad to meet with Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of the University, and Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU, to learn about the latest development of their alma mater.   The Association has been a strong supporter of the University’s “Overseas Alumni Hospitality Programme”, extending warm hospitality to PolyU students who participate in overseas exchanges. On that day, one of the exchange students returned to meet with Dr Lu and Ms Chan. She expressed her gratitude for their support, and accompanied them on a tour of the new landmarks on campus. She also shared her student life. It was a delightful and enjoyable time for everyone.

PolyU honours five outstanding alumni

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is pleased to announce that it has conferred the “Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2023” on five alumni in recognition of their significant achievements in their respective fields as well as their contributions to their alma mater and society. They are fitting testament to PolyU’s accomplishments in nurturing leaders for Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. The Award aims to give recognition to distinguished graduates of PolyU and its forerunners, namely the Government Trade School, Hong Kong Technical College and the Hong Kong Polytechnic.  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 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 (Please refer to the Appendix for recipient biodata.) The Award Selection Committee was chaired by Dr LAM Tai-fai, GBS, JP, Council Chairman of PolyU. Ex-officio members included: Professor Jin-Guang TENG, JP, President, PolyU; and Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President, PolyU. Other members included: Dr Daniel YIP Chung-yin, BBS, JP, Council Member, PolyU; Mr Augustus TANG Kin-wing, Court Member, PolyU; Ir Dr Samson TAM Wai-ho, JP, President, Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association; and Ir YAU Kwok-fai, President, Federation of PolyU Alumni Associations. Since the launch of the Award in 1996, 105 recipients 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. The Award Presentation Ceremony will be held in December 2023.

AlumNews (October 2023) – You’ve Got Our Invitation!

The recently announced list of Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees, the new University Square on campus, the latest alumni publication... In this issue of AlumNews, we invite you all to explore the exclusive updates tailored for alumni. Don’t miss out on anything!

New Publication: PolyU Alumni in Strength

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new publication PolyU Alumni in Strength! Apart from this online preview, you will also have the chance to get a printed copy at our upcoming events. Incorporating annual highlights for 2022/23, this bilingual booklet offers a comprehensive overview on our ongoing efforts in alumni engagement. It also showcases the deep connection between PolyU and the cherished alumni community, which has been built upon effective communication, engaging events, achievement recognition, vibrant networks, and more. In addition, we appreciate the active participation and substantial contributions made by numerous graduates. We would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Mainland Development Office, Faculties, Schools and Departments, alumni associations, and other stakeholders who have provided input for this publication. Let’s continue to work hand in hand in the future!    

Autumn Treats from Hotel ICON

New A La Carte Menu at U.GREEN U.GREEN premieres Hotel ICON bestsellers like The Market’s Hainanese Chicken with Flavoured Rice and Double-boiled Soup (HKD $128) and Above & Beyond’s Pan-fried Egg with Char Siu and Rice (HKD$98) in brand new A La Carte Menu. “Make Your Set” in our menu, gives you a greater variety of choices for lunch and dinner.  Menu: read online Location: U.GREEN, Communal Building, PolyU Enquiries: (852) 2766 4850 or email Reservation: main area or fine dining area   Delightful Sweets at Hotel ICON Gourmet Shop We are thrilled to introduce an irresistible selection of signature cakes meticulously crafted by the esteemed pastry experts at Hotel ICON. What’s more! As an extra touch, four ICONIC drinks (HK$28) is available to complement the desserts, which will surely elevate your experience.  Location: Hotel ICON Gourmet Shop, Block VA, PolyU Enquiries: (852) 6476 6260 or email Reservation: online   4-Hand French Gastronomic 3-Course Afternoon Tea at GREEN Prepare to be enchanted by an extraordinary Michelin-inspired culinary collaboration, with Sébastien Faré, a celebrated French chef with a Michelin-starred background, Culinary Executive Chef at Vire Professionnel. This exclusive 4-Hand French Gastronomy is a 3- Course Afternoon Tea which combines the finesse of French cuisine by with the expertise of Sébastien Faré and the expertise of our Executive Chef Danny Ho. An exquisite selection of sweets is accompanied with free-flow of French yogurt soft-serve French yogurt to to complement your afternoon tea. Location: GREEN, Hotel ICON Enquiries: (852) 3400 1300 or email Reservation: online   Crab Extravaganza at The Market It's the season for crabs! Our experienced team of chefs from The Market presents more than 10 scrumptious crab delicacies during dinner in this season of abundance. Get cracking on some highlights such as the spicy Thai-style Chilli Soft Shell Crab, Claypot Crab Congee and the meaty Steamed Crab Claws with Prawn and Huadiao Wine, these dishes are served on a rotational basis. Menu: read online Location: The Market, Hotel ICON Enquiries: (852) 3400 1308 or email Reservation: online   Autumn Specials at Above & Beyond  In this Autumn, enjoy six alluring autumn delicacies by Executive Chef Chi Ki Wong at Above and Beyond. Embrace the autumn season with the exquisite seasonal delights. Using the freshest ingredients, Chef Wong has put together an autumn special a la carte menu, showcasing dishes such as Mud Crab with Dried Chilli, Wok-fried Mud Crab with Black Pepper Sauce and Crab Meat Cake with Minced Shrimp, for an unforgettable experience in the gentle autumn breeze. Menu: read online Location:  Above & Beyond, Hotel ICON Enquiries: (852) 3400 1318 or email Reservation: online

President’s Dinner Gatherings with Alumni and Former Staff in Australia

During a recent trip to Australia, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, and Prof. Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of the University, attended two alumni dinner gatherings in Sydney and Melbourne on 26 and 27 September 2023 respectively. Hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Australia) Association, the events brought together over 150 guests, including alumni and former staff living in the country. At both dinners, President Teng shared the latest achievements and developments of PolyU, highlighting the University’s groundbreaking research, innovative education programmes, and unwavering commitment to fostering global collaborations. The attending alumni were excited to learn about all the milestones of their alma mater, and were thrilled to exchange ideas with President Teng and Prof. Chao in person.   Notable highlights included the presence of Ms Trista Lim, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney, who graced the dinner on 26 September. Moreover, special souvenirs were presented to President Teng and Prof. Chao, including the artistic photographs by alumnus Mr Alex Ma.  President Teng expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Association, particularly Dr Karen Tam, President of the Association, and other Executive Committee members. He also commended their endeavours in connecting PolyU members in Australia, sparing no effort in maintaining strong ties with their alma mater.  For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.  

OPAA Mixer (Second Event)

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association successfully hosted its second OPAA Mixer on 27 September 2023. Apart from presenting the OPAA Scholarship to exemplary students, it also provided a valuable opportunity for the younger generation to engage with the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees. Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of the University, along with Dr Kelvin Cheng and Dr Elaine Tang, representatives from the Careers and Placement Section of PolyU Student Affairs Office, were invited to join in the celebration. Mr Elton Ng Chun-ting, Honorary Secretary of the Association, and Ms Mary Yu Wah, Director of the Association, also extended invitations to two past awardees of The Ten Outstanding Young Persons Selection (TOYP), Mr Sean Lin and Ms Cecilia Yau, to participate in the event. The outstanding alumni, University representatives and TOYP awardees extended their congratulations to the scholarship recipients. They encouraged the students to persistently pursue their dreams, work diligently, and face challenges with courage. These six students from different disciplines have joined the University’s “INSPIRE” Mentorship Programme with OPAA mentors; throughout the programme, they demonstrated exceptional performance and were enthusiastic about student activities, University events, and community service. They attended the panel interviews in June and July, and received high recognition from the Scholarship Committee formed by: President Ir Dr Samson Tam Wai-ho, JP; Director Ir Dr Kelvin Leung Kai-yuen; and Director Ir Alfred Sit Wing-hang, GBS, JP. The students expressed their gratitude to the Association and appreciated the guidance provided by their mentors. They pledged to continue learning from the senior alumni and aspire to become Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees themselves one day. Dr Tam, President of the Association, encouraged everyone to actively connect with one another, seizing the opportunity to share experiences and insights in personal, academic and career development. The exchange of ideas greatly benefited all participants. Over the years, the Association has launched various initiatives to nurture multi-talents for society. This event exemplified the outstanding alumni’s commitment to youth development. The Association is dedicated to organising more projects in the future, making contributions to PolyU’s provision of the best holistic education. For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.  

PolyU Mainland Alumni Affairs Meeting

Riding on the inauguration of the Sichuan Alumni Network, the Mainland Alumni Affairs Meeting was held on 23 Sep afternoon. Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU, Ir Prof. Edwin Cheng, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Prof. Lu Haitian, Director of Mainland Development, Dr Sean Xu, Assistant Director of Mainland Development and representatives from nine Mainland Alumni Networks attended the meeting at Chengdu. Representatives from the respective Alumni Network reported on their recent progress on alumni engagement. The meeting also enabled the discussion on how to empower alumni and promote resource sharing among individual alumni and the Alumni Networks. Dr Lou expressed heartfelt gratitude to all alumni networks for their invaluable contributions. She encouraged the Networks to actively explore resources and contribute to establishing PolyU Research Institutes in various mainland cities, ultimately realising the knowledge transfer to benefit society and the country.

PolyU Sichuan Alumni Network Established

Led by Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU, Ir Prof. Edwin Cheng, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Prof. Lu Haitian, Director of Mainland Development and Dr Sean Xu, Assistant Director of Mainland Development joined hands with representatives from eight Mainland alumni networks and alumni from Sichuan to gather in Chengdu to witness the official establishment of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Sichuan Alumni Network on 23 September. It was a memorable moment, with over 120 enthusiastic PolyU Sichuan alumni in attendance. On that day, the inaugural general meeting of the PolyU Sichuan Alumni Network, along with the establishment ceremony, was held. Following that, a celebratory dinner took place. Dr Lou delivered a speech at the dinner on the latest developments of the University. She emphasised the significance of fostering stronger communication and collaboration between the University and its alumni. PolyU is actively pursuing the establishment of research institutes, and aims to leverage the support of its alumni networks to transfer research outcomes into applications for the betterment of society. The event concluded successfully amidst laughter and joyful conversations. The distinguished guests and the alumni wish PolyU Sichuan Alumni Network continued success.