PolyU hosts the first assistive technology symposium in Hong Kong to expedite adoption of technology in social welfare and healthcare industries

The Research Centre for Assistive Technology (RCATech) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) joined hands with the Association of Engineering and Medical Volunteer Services (EMV) to co-organise the symposium “Evolution of Assistive Technology Devices: Pathway to Equal Opportunity and Quality of Life in Hong Kong”, which was held on the PolyU campus on 14 December. The event brought together around 300 occupational therapists, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals, from NGOs, public and private hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, and government departments, to share insights on the latest development of assistive technology devices in Hong Kong.

The Symposium was officiated by Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences; Prof. Frank CHAN Fan, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People’s Congress and Honorary Advisor to RCATech of PolyU; Prof. Kenneth FONG, Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Director of RCATech of PolyU; and Mr Wilson CHEUNG, Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee of EMV.

In his welcoming speech, Prof. David Shum stated, “The PolyU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences has a long history of providing the best education for social and healthcare professionals and in conducting innovative and impactful research to solve complex social and health problems and to improve the well-being of humankind. It is the first time for RCATech to collaborate with EMV, an NGO partner, on hosting a symposium focused on assistive technology. By exploring the current development of assistive technology, participants were able to re-evaluate its impact on our society, particularly for individuals with disabilities in Hong Kong.”

The Symposium featured 10 prominent speakers from the health technology sector and eight product showcases of assistive technology devices. Prof. Frank Chan provided profound insights into the transformative power of assistive devices in enhancing quality of life. He stated, “In our pursuit to advance assistive technology, the greatest reward we aspire to is the heartfelt gratitude from those we serve. Picture the joy in hearing someone say, ‘I used to be spoon-fed, but now I can eat by myself,’ or the relief in, ‘I felt ashamed when others had to clean my body, but you have given me the dignity to do it on my own.’ Imagine the profound impact of someone sharing, ‘Standing up and walking has always been my dream, and you have made it possible with the exoskeleton.’ These simple tasks, often taken overlooked by many, represent monumental achievements for those unable to perform them independently. Your empowering support and compassionate care mean everything to them, profoundly transforming their lives.”

Prof. Kenneth Fong stated, “Considering the ageing population together with half a million people with disabilities, there may be one million people who need assistive technology in Hong Kong. There is pressing need to develop assistive technology devices to support people with disabilities and their carers. The Research Centre for Assistive Technology will continue to advocate and strengthen research, development and commercialisation of assistive and rehabilitation technologies in Hong Kong and the GBA.”

The Symposium strengthened industry collaboration and fostered networking opportunities that will help enhance public awareness in assistive technology and facilitate knowledge translation to community levels. Ms Catherine WAN, Executive Director of EMV, hopes that assistive technology can help everyone to improve their quality of life and achieve greater fulfilment.

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