Media Releases

PolyU’s new think tank on innovation and technology policy draws leading minds on planning and land strategy for the Northern Metropolis in its inaugural forum

The Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) launched its Innovation and Technology Forum Series today, pooling leading minds and experts from multiple disciplines to contribute to policy and strategy discussions about propelling Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. The Series debuted with a forum on the theme of “Planning, Land and Housing for Innovation and Technology Development in Hong Kong”. It attracted over 300 participants joining in person or online from different universities, research institutes and public organisations. Founded in 2022, PReCIT is a university-level interdisciplinary policy research centre. The primary areas of its research include carbon-neutral cities, Greater Bay Area I&T development, and the Belt and Road Initiative development in Southeast Asia. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “The development of a vibrant innovation and technology industry is the key to fostering Hong Kong’s future success. For Hong Kong to succeed in the innovation and technology arena, many policy questions need to be addressed, including policies for the integration of Hong Kong into the national innovation ecosystem, and the talent policies that support the development of Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology hub. With the establishment of PReCIT, PolyU aspires to make significant contributions to the formulation of innovation and technology policies in Hong Kong.” Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Director of PReCIT, said, “PReCIT aims at generating impactful and constructive innovation and technology strategies for the Government on societal issues. The Northern Metropolis has strong potential to support Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T hub featuring urban-rural integration and the co-existence of development and conservation. It is a mega project that deserves more discussion. The PReCIT I&T Forum provides a premier platform for experts in the city to exchange views for the betterment of society.” At the forum, Dr Winnie TANG, Founder and Honorary President of the Smart City Consortium; Mr LING Kar-kan, Director of the Jockey Club Design Institute of Social Innovation (J.C.DISI) of PolyU; and Prof. H.C. MAN, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering of PolyU, exchanged their insights and ideas about the development of the Northern Metropolis – a core strategy of the HKSAR Government to drive the city’s economic and I&T development, as well as cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Dr Tang offered a roadmap on how the Northern Metropolis could become a smart city role model for other parts of Hong Kong, and help the public to make informed decisions regarding introducing smart city technologies in their neighbourhoods. She added that utilising the city’s spatial data effectively is critical for enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness. Mr Ling, formerly the Director of Planning and Strategic Planning Advisor for Hong Kong/Shenzhen Cooperation of the HKSAR Government, said that the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy will bring enormous changes to residents along the bordering area with Shenzhen, as well as shifts in business models for the next 10 to 15 years. Therefore, collaboration among the government, business, academia, and professionals in planning and land usage deliberation is critical for the long-term synergy between Hong Kong and Shenzhen and their integration into the Greater Bay Area’s development. Prof. Man, who is also the Director of the Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing of PolyU, emphasised the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of indigenous inhabitants while developing areas like the San Tin Technopole – a strategic part of the Northern Metropolis that aspires to be Hong Kong’s Silicon Valley. Prof. Man is an indigenous resident and former representative of Chau Tau Village in San Tin. A panel discussion moderated by Prof. Eric CHUI, Co-Director of PReCIT and Head of the Department of Applied Social Sciences of PolyU, and joined by Mr Simon WONG, Vice President (Campus Development and Facilities) of PolyU, further inspired thought-provoking dialogues among participants on hot topics ranging from environmental protection to opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. Friday’s forum was co-organised by the Smart City Consortium and PolyU’s Department of Applied Social Sciences, J.C.DISI, and the Research and Innovation Office. It was supported by the Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design, The Hong Kong Institute of Architects, The Hong Kong Institute of Planners, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, and The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers. The next forum will be held on 27 September on the topic of “Funding Landscape from Research to Commercialization”. Leaders from Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, and the MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node are invited to share their valuable insights to enhance Hong Kong’s I&T development. For more information about PReCIT’s events, please visit www.polyu.edu.hk/precit/.   ***END***

PolyU Fashion Show 2022 Nurturing young talents for the fashion industry

32 graduating students of the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) showcased their talent through their creative designs at the PolyU Fashion Show 2022 earlier. The students demonstrated their distinctive styles and concepts in their graduation projects to industry professionals, families and friends at the annual show staged at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This is the first undergraduate fashion show after the upgrade of the School and marks the return of the annual iconic institutional show after a two-year break due to the pandemic. The Show presented exciting works by newly graduating students from the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Scheme in Fashion and Textiles, embracing the three majors of fashion design, knitwear design, and intimate apparel and activewear design. Providing an opportunity for the students to share their amazing designs on the catwalk, the Show attracted nearly 700 guests including influential figures from the industry, famous fashion designers, media friends and fashion bloggers, while an audience of over 7,000 watched the live show online. The Show was officiated by Prof. Jin-guang TENG, President of PolyU; Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU; Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President of PolyU; and Prof. Raymond WONG; Interim Dean of SFT. Prof. Raymond Wong said, “This year is a special year for PolyU. Not only is PolyU celebrating its 85th anniversary, but the Institute of Textiles and Clothing has been upgraded to an independent school – the School of Fashion and Textiles. During our 65-year history, the School has aligned its operation with the mission of PolyU in many ways, including through its ground-breaking innovations, effective pedagogies and critical contributions to scholarship.” Reflecting their solid design training from SFT, each finalist demonstrated three pieces of design from their collection, competing for the various awards and scholarships offered and supported by our industry partners. The judging panel comprised (in alphabetical order): Ms Janet Cheung, Project Director, Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association Mr Tony Kong, Assistant President, Fountain Set (Holdings) Limited Ms Ale Lau, Chief Designer, Yintak Intex Co. Limited Ms Constance Lee, Founder, ConStyle Ms Hoi-ni Leung, Head of Creation, Pioneer Elastic (Hong Kong) Limited Mr Ronan Leung, Creative Design Manager, Avery Dennison RBIS Apparel Solutions Ms Karen Ng, Secretary, Hong Kong Intimate Apparel Industries’ Association Ms Nicola Shears, Head of Creative Design Asia, Triumph International Services (APAC) Limited Mr Kit Wan, Founder, Kit Wan Studios Ms Brenda Yang, Technical Manager, The Woolmark Company and Flinders Merino Group Mr Ryan Yeung, Chief Designer, Legend Swimwear Factory Limited Ms Dilys Yiu, Director, Fenix Group Holdings Limited Mr Karmuel Young, Founder, Karmuel Young The Overall Winner was TSANG On-ting with their theme of “Exhausting a crowd”. Please refer to the appendix for the full list of awardees. As the success of our alumni is of vital importance to the School, a series of home-coming events was also hosted. Three outstanding alumni designers, who were once selected as the finalists of their graduation show - Ms Constance Lee (BA, 2013), Mr Kit Wan (BA, 2013) and Mr Karmuel Young (BA, 2007) - were invited to join our judging panel for the selection of the Overall Winner, 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up awards for the fashion and knitwear design finalists. These outstanding alumni designers not only established their own design labels after graduation but have also become key figures in defining and shaping the Hong Kong fashion industry. SFT maintains strong ties with its alumni, and their success stories are inspiring, encouraging and valuable to both young talents and the industry as a whole. In this show, 14 alumni designers who received awards from 2021 and 2022, but could not show their works due to the pandemic, were invited to showcase them with current graduating students so as to share their success with us. About the School of Fashion and Textiles Over the past 65 years, the PolyU Institute of Textiles and Clothing has nurtured many talented and distinguished professionals for the fashion and manufacturing industries. On 1 July 2022, the Institute was renamed and upgraded to the School of Fashion and Textiles, to serve as another flagship and independent school within PolyU.   ***END***

PolyU Main Entrance Unveiling Ceremony marks a key milestone in the University’s history Embarking on a new journey to education, research and knowledge transfer excellence

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today unveiled its iconic main entrance near Core A on Cheong Wan Road to celebrate the University’s 85th Anniversary. The high-profile unveiling was officiated by Mr John LEE Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Chancellor of PolyU, and witnessed by dignitaries including Mr Eric CHAN Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration; Dr ZHANG Zhihua, Director General of the Youth Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government; Members of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council; Mr Carlson TONG, Chairman of the University Grants Committee; and chairmen and presidents of other local universities. They were joined by about 600 community leaders, PolyU alumni, staff, students and other distinguished guests who gathered to celebrate the joyful occasion. From a humble government trade school to a world-class university, for 85 years PolyU has made impactful contributions that have advanced the development of Hong Kong. The completion of the main entrance marks another significant milestone in the University’s development. The Ceremony commenced with a chorus of the national anthem and the PolyU 85th Anniversary theme song. The Chief Executive and the Chief Secretary for Administration were joined by PolyU’s Council Chairman Dr LAM Tai-fai; President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG; Deputy President and Provost Prof. Wing-tak WONG; and Executive Vice President Dr Miranda LOU to unveil the main entrance. The main entrance highlights PolyU’s determination to take talent development, technological innovation and knowledge transfer to a next new level for the advancement of the Nation and the world, leveraging the University’s strengths in research and education. The design of the new entrance, which reflects the proud heritage of the University enriched with a touch of contemporary style, blends our signature red brick architectural style with classical colonnade features. On the side of the portal, a vertical green wall displays the PolyU logo floating on a reflective pool. Above the main stairs is a hanging white slatted ceiling. The main entrance is more than just a new landmark – it manifests PolyU’s continuous pursuit of excellence, taking its world-class education and research to a new era. In the new academic year, PolyU will launch an integrated and innovative undergraduate curriculum with new elements in “Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics” and “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” to cultivate future-ready leaders. The University has also newly established the Special Talents Admission and Recognition Scheme (STARS) Residential College to facilitate the all-round development of our students with special talents, while continuing to foster the next generation of researchers and innovators through the College of Undergraduate Researchers and Innovators (CURI) and the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS). To support the development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area into an international innovation and technology hub, the University has launched the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research, the largest research platform of its kind in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area to foster interdisciplinary research, partnership with world-renowned scholars and technological advancement. Construction of new campus facilities and development of a more inspirational environment is also underway to support education, research and knowledge transfer in various specialised areas, including healthcare. Dr Lam Tai-fai, PolyU’s Chairman of Council, said, “This is a momentous year as we mark the 25th Anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland and the 85th Anniversary of PolyU. Throughout the years, PolyU has grown and thrived with Hong Kong, a journey during which the concerted efforts and shared goals of PolyU stakeholders and supporters have been indispensable – as signified in our 85th Anniversary theme of ‘We Are PolyU • Together We Excel’. As a 1981 graduate of the Hong Kong Polytechnic, I have witnessed the progress the University has made in cultivating talents who have positive values and a strong sense of national identity, who are socially responsible and willing to shoulder greater responsibilities for the betterment of their fellow citizens, Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. This is a testament to how PolyU has been living up to its motto of ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’. Today’s unveiling of the University’s main entrance marks the beginning of another stage of development and the start of a new chapter for PolyU. I am confident that with the HKSAR Government’s support and PolyU members’ strenuous efforts, the University will continue to scale new heights.” Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU’s President, said, “PolyU relentlessly pursues excellence in academic research. At the same time, the University has placed great emphasis on the societal impact of its research breakthroughs. We are committed to nurturing a large number of innovation and technology talents for Hong Kong, while making value education an important part of our students’ development. Besides including national education into the curriculum, PolyU also makes the study of Chinese history and culture mandatory for undergraduate students. Looking forward, PolyU will continue striving for excellence and march forward, helping Hong Kong become an international innovation and technology hub, and making new contributions to the science and technology advancement of the Nation.” PolyU’s 85th Anniversary celebrations commenced in November last year, with signature events including the PolyU InnoTech Open Day, and the “Art and Culture Series” concerts and performances featuring the Federation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Alumni Associations Chinese orchestra, Youth Outreach street dance and alumni band. The University will continue to mark its anniversary with a series of upcoming conferences and activities. These include two distinguished public lectures hosted respectively by PolyU’s President Emeritus Prof. POON Chung-kwong and Dr Louis NG, Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum; and the Sportathon for alumni, staff, students, and their families. An anniversary gala dinner in November this year will conclude the celebrations on a high note.   ***END***

PolyU pioneers nursing education with first-of-its-kind VR learning system “Virtual Hospital”

Nursing education mainly comprises classroom teaching and clinical practice. Yet, face-to-face teaching and clinical placements at medical institutions have been affected amid the epidemic. With a view to enhancing the training and learning experience of nursing students, a research team led by Dr Justina LIU, Associate Professor of School of Nursing, and Dr Kitty CHAN, Senior Teaching Fellow of the same school, has developed a virtual learning system “Virtual Hospital” which makes use of virtual reality (VR) technology to offer an innovative experiential approach to nursing education. Virtual Hospital is the first-of-its-kind virtual learning system in Hong Kong that simulates the complex and chaotic environment of a real-life hospital ward. With a total of 11 games, the system provides five scenarios, namely “Clinical Practicum Orientation”, “Challenges of Delirium”, “Managing Multitasks”, “Prevention of Errors” and “Potential Heart Attack”. More than 1,200 combinations of randomised situations and multiple choices make it difficult for students to predict the tasks they will be handling, while they are required to provide instant responses to multitasks and make appropriate nursing decisions through assessing a patient’s condition and interpreting their medical information. Dr Kitty Chan said, “Most of the existing VR learning systems are skill and procedure focused, and adopt a single patient management setting. The PolyU-developed Virtual Hospital requires students to handle multiple beds and take care of multiple patients at the same time. Unexpected incidents and clinical pitfalls are generated to test the student’s ability to apply their knowledge and prioritise nursing tasks amid various disruptions within a limited time. Through the VR experiential learning, students can improve the soft skills that are essential for their clinical practice, including situation awareness, flexibility to handle emergencies, as well as decision making and communication skills.” Virtual Hospital allows users’ responses and decisions to be displayed on a TV monitor for group participation, while their communication with the virtual patients can be recorded for review. By answering multiple-choice questions, the student can reflect on the judgements and decisions made. In addition, the game data and the automated assessment function of the system also provide convenience for teachers in tracking students’ progress and evaluating learning outcomes. Since its launch in January this year, Virtual Hospital has benefited over 450 nursing students. Dr Justina Liu said, “Virtual Hospital provides our students with a cooperative case-based learning opportunity. Supplemented with our current practice on patient simulators, I hope that the Virtual Hospital can further help our students master the skills that are required for clinical nursing and most importantly for reducing errors in actual clinical situations.” Dr Liu continued, “We are pleased that the virtual learning system has received positive feedback from students, and we look forward to incorporating interprofessional and interdisciplinary elements in the future, as well as introducing the system to other nursing institutions in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.” Ariel Cheng, a Year-3 student from PolyU School of Nursing, was impressed by the fidelity of the Virtual Hospital in terms of the environmental details. She said the VR learning experience had strengthened her confidence in clinical practice as the system allowed every student to deal with nursing problems on their own, which helps them better prepare for the stressful work situation faced by nurses in the real clinical environment.   ***END***

PolyU launches the Inter-secondary School Green Deck Landscape Design Competition - registration now open!

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched the Inter-secondary School Green Deck Landscape Design Competition 2022 to provide a chance for secondary school students to come up with a creative landscape design for the proposed Green Deck over the Cross Harbour Tunnel Toll Plaza in Hung Hom.

Naming Ceremony of the Cheung Che Man and Kwok Yuen Ho Bamboo Court

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has recently named the Bamboo Court on the PolyU campus after Mr Cheung Che-man and Mrs Cheung Kwok Yuen-ho. A naming ceremony was held on 29 July in appreciation of the generous couple who have kindly offered their support to PolyU. Known for its serenity, abundant sunshine and a welcoming open-air café, the Bamboo Court is a favourite hangout spot for many PolyU teachers, students and visitors. Always endeavouring to give back to society, this selfless couple believes that “Knowledge can change the fate of a person and a nation”. Over the years, they have made contributions in support of various charitable causes, in particular those focusing on nurturing our young people and supporting education. Deeply impressed by PolyU’s achievements, Mr Cheung has not hesitated to offer his support, helping the University to make greater positive impact on the community through its holistic education and advanced research. At the Ceremony, Dr Katherine Ngan, Chairman of PolyU Court, thanked Mr Cheung for his generosity. While sharing Mr Cheung’s belief of “Life affecting life”, she also highlighted the fact that PolyU is the only university in Hong Kong that participates in the Nation’s space exploration missions. PolyU’s research embraces wide-ranging topics from down-to-earth research improving human lives to up-in-space innovations impacting mankind. She believes PolyU will continue to make contributions to the development of Hong Kong, the Nation and the world for the foreseeable future. The naming ceremony was a joyful event celebrating a couple who are an uplifting example of gaining happiness by giving. The kind-hearted Mr Cheung, whom people fondly call Uncle Man, is not only popular among those he has helped in Hong Kong and on the Mainland, but also deeply loved by his family, friends and neighbours.   ***END***

Junior scientists win PolyU space experiment competition Winning team will receive guidance from PolyU Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations experts

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has for some years been actively participating in the Nation’s space programmes, as well as cultivating the interest of local youth in space science through various promotional activities. The University is committed to elevating young people’s enthusiasm for a career in space technology development thus making contributions to the scientific development of Hong Kong, the Nation and the world.

PolyU-led key study on air PM2.5 pollution and health awarded the RGC Theme-based Research Scheme funding

A key research on air fine particulate pollution and health led by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s (PolyU) Prof. Xiang-dong LI, Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment, has won a HK$44.5 million funding in the Theme-based Research Scheme 2022/23 (Twelfth Round) of the Research Grants Council (RGC). The project, titled “Unravelling the Black Box between Air Pollution and Public Health for Transformative Air Quality Management”, seeks to identify the toxic components and emissions sources that contribute to the acute toxicity of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) which aggravate two index diseases of the pulmonary and cardiovascular system, namely chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ischemic heart disease. Based on solid evidence yielded, the study will recommend effective, practical and cost-effective approaches to manage air quality and public health in Hong Kong and around the world. Prof. Xiang-dong Li, who is also Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology, Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development, and Director of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development, said, “The completion of the planned project may lead to a revision of the Air Quality Health Index algorithm and the associated 'Health Advice', and a review and updates of the Air Quality Objectives in Hong Kong. The findings will also be conveyed to other national and international bodies to influence future policy formulations on air quality in different parts of the world.” Prof. Li leads a multi-disciplinary team of over a dozen researchers from PolyU and other universities to conduct the study, several of them are advisors for the World Health Organization. The team will organise regular workshops to discuss important health issues associated with PM2.5 with potential stakeholders in expert groups. The research team leverages latest advances in environmental toxicology and molecular epidemiology to overcome the scientific challenge of identifying the toxic components of PM2.5 and their associated sources. Through an existing PM2.5 global monitoring network, the team will select multiple cities that have distinct natural and socioeconomic conditions for the study. The study will also consider different carbon emission reduction scenarios toward the goal of carbon neutrality, and the health benefits resulting from mitigating both air pollution and climate change. Over the longer term, the integrated approaches established in this research could inform future studies on the chronic effect of PM2.5 on health for identifying ways to regulate its long-term effects related to lung cancer and neurodegeneration. Prof. Li’s project is one of eight outstanding research proposals awarded in this latest round of RGC funding totalling HK$306 million.   ***END***

PolyU MA Graduation Fashion Show 2022 “THEN, NOW, META”

The School of Fashion & Textiles (formerly the Institute of Textiles and Clothing) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) held its dynamic MA Graduation Fashion Show 2022 last Thursday (28 July 2022) at The Mills. More than 200 guests were in attendance, including representatives from the fashion industry and media. The theme of this year's show, “Then, Now, Meta”, is a metaphor for the collective, yet diverse journey that students have embarked on through their work. Of the 17 graduating students from the Master of Arts (MA) in Fashion and Textile Design who showcased an exploration of the past, studying and mastering the learnings of yesterday through their fashion collections. Some had reacted to our current times and questioned the reality of today. Whilst others encountered the future and contemplated the boundless opportunities of tomorrow. In addition to ingenuity in design, students put great effort into creating their own materials. For example, students produced unique fabric finishes using natural plant dying techniques, and established new approaches to embroidery and embellishment using epoxy resins. Furthermore, digital technologies such as three-dimensional design software CLO3D and Blender were widely adopted, in order to minimize the material consumed in the production process and improve the sustainability of the designs. Opening the Show was student Lin Ruo-ming, Lyn, alumni of the Zhujiang College of South China Agricultural University. Her collection was inspired by her observations of Hong Kong people drying their garments in public areas. She felt that this metaphorically reflected the “Pajama Culture” of Shanghai where pajamas, which are ordinarily used to sleep in, are worn as everyday dress. Both the role of public spaces and pajamas have been reconfigured. Her menswear collection included beautifully patterned silk shirts which directly referenced pajamas. In addition, there were some strong denim pieces, particularly a pair of shorts that looked like a fusion of two garments. Lyn wanted to create a sense of "harmonized regional confusion" with each outfit. Another highlight of the evening was a sustainable collection created by Wang Zi-yi, Sylvia alumni of Zhejiang Sci-tech University. Her collection was fully patterned using the digital software, CLO3D to reduce the amount of material used in the development of her collection. Sylvia has a strong background in textiles and developed all her own sustainable fabrics, including in particular organic silks that had been naturally dyed using plants and vegetables. Conceptually, her collection explores the relationship between architecture and nature. Each garment appeared as a robust structure, the textile surface of which looked like it had been naturally eroded by the environment. Closing the show was alumni of from Dalian Art College, Bao Yi-fan, Evan. Evan’s collection was inspired by his surroundings and how he connects with people and objects emotionally. He used a journal to document his state of mind and surroundings, and then visualize them through his design. Evan patterned his collection using CLO3D, and digitally simulated the throwing of clothes onto the floor and over a chair. His collection had a young, rebellious feeling, with its own chaotic harmony. Developing his own textiles, a particularly interesting feature of the collection was how he bleached and dyed denim and jersey pieces using a wig covered in hair bleach and blue hair dye. Mr Ryan Scott HOULTON, the programme leader, hopes that talented and ambitious young designers can fully demonstrate their creative potential through this practical one-year course. He remarked, “This programme aims to nurture future industry mavericks, who are innovative and free-thinking. We also equip them with comprehensive skillsets. I look forward to seeing our graduates shine in the field, and become a new driving force and potential disrupters in the global fashion industry.” About MA in Fashion & Textile Design PolyU’s MA in Fashion and Textile Design is one of the most innovative design programmes in the Asia-Pacific region. This taught master programme runs for one year and is committed to nurturing new and emerging fashion talents for Hong Kong and beyond. The works of the graduates highlighted their unique skills and their vision of fashion and the industry they will venture into. Close collaborations with internationally renowned brands such as Spanish footwear brand Camper and international eyewear company Bbase have been established for various projects. In the new academic year, students will start working on a sustainable eyewear collaboration with Bbase, and embark on a new and exciting project for Advance Denim.   ***END***

PolyU and CMA sign MoU to give impetus to the city’s advanced manufacturing industry and promote the brand image of “Made in Hong Kong”

To further deepen their collaboration, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong (CMA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) today. Integrating the strengths of the academy and industry, the MoU not only aims to cultivate more innovation and technology (I&T) talents for the need of Hong Kong in the future, but also to drive the application of the results of PolyU’s research on various industries, so as to facilitate the knowledge transfer and industrialisation, make contribution to the development of I&T and advanced manufacturing of the city, and promote the brand image of “Made in Hong Kong”. CMA has been committed to offering its tremendous support to PolyU and driving education development. Back in 2014, it had donated HK$30 million to the University to support programmes that facilitate students’ all-round development. To show our appreciation, PolyU has named its CD Wing Academic Building as “CMA Building” in grateful recognition of the association’s support and contributions to the University over the years. It was mentioned in the Government’s Policy Address that the National 14th Five-Year Plan indicated clear support for Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T hub. I&T will play a decisive role in the city’s future development. To complement the development of the country, PolyU has recently established the largest interdisciplinary research platform in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area – the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) to further foster interdisciplinary research and advance the development of an international innovation hub. PolyU will organise seminars with CMA through PAIR on a regular basis to explore the development and opportunities of different industries and listen to their views. Leveraging on PolyU’s research results in various scientific technology areas, the two parties shall facilitate the transformation of traditional manufacturing industry, give impetus to the development of Hong Kong’s advanced manufacturing, and complement the country’s intense implementation of the strategy of “manufacturing-strong nation” with licensed patents and advanced technologies. In particular, PAIR will drive the development of advanced manufacturing industries and strategic emerging industries, such as biotechnology, new energy, new materials, high-end equipment and new energy vehicles, with the help of innovative technologies. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU said, “Backed by our extensive experience in research on numerous advanced areas and the phenomenal results, PolyU has been striving to advance Hong Kong’s I&T development. CMA, on the other hand, devotes itself to enhancing the brand of “Made in Hong Kong” and driving the development of re-industrialisation. In addition, we attach great importance to the exchange and cooperation with the industrial and commercial sectors in hopes of creating values for the industries and the society with our innovation and research results. Stepping up the cooperation of the two parties is set to further drive innovation and technology in Hong Kong, promote the development of advanced manufacturing industry and strategic emerging industries, and speed up the process of developing the city into an international I&T hub.” Dr Allen SHI, President of CMA, stated that the MoU reflects that industry and academia are determined to accelerate the development of re-industrialisation and I&T. He said, “I&T is not only a key to Hong Kong's economic growth, but also a weapon for transforming and upgrading in manufacturing. Hong Kong has an excellent foundation in R&D and manufacturing; however, technology commercialisation is ineffective. CMA has great business networks while PolyU has outstanding scientific achievements. Through increased interaction between us, we are looking forward to jointly creating a more vibrant ecosystem, advancing the city’s technological development and bringing more positive impacts to various industries.” Through the regular sharing activities held by PolyU and CMA, the University’s scientific research technology and the PolyU-nurtured start-ups have been thoroughly introduced to the members of CMA. In addition to supporting technology transfer and expansion to more areas, these knowledge exchange activities have also opened up the collaboration among PolyU’s research teams and start-ups, on the one hand, and CMA and its members in other areas. Further, EightOSix Technology Company Limited, a start-up founded by Professor ZHENG Zijian of PolyU School of Fashion and Textiles, will join efforts with CMA+ Pilot Manufacturing Support Center of CMA Testing to apply the flexible Textile Lithium Battery developed by Prof. Zheng on construction work clothes so as to broaden the application of wearable electronics. Since its establishment, PolyU has been working closely with the commercial and industrial sectors in Hong Kong. In particular, we have made a stellar reputation in the manufacturing industry with our numerous contributions. By leveraging on CMA’s advantages, it strives to encourage corporates to invest in research and development in Hong Kong, advance in translation and commercialisation of PolyU’s research results, and develop manufacturing with high added value. To combine I&T with industry, it will definitely drive the development of advanced manufacturing in Hong Kong, promote the brand image of “Made in Hong Kong”, and make significant contributions to the establishment of the international I&T hub.   *** END ***