PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences sign MoU to establish first collaboration with a Mongolian tertiary institution

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy of the School of Nursing of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15 January 2024, to strengthen the collaboration of both parties and signify an important step forward in contributing to the Nation’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Prof. Kwok-yin WONG, Vice President (Education) of PolyU said in his welcome speech, “We are pleased to announce that the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences is the first tertiary institution in Mongolia to collaborate with PolyU. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences for their efforts in forging connections between the University and Mongolia.”

PolyU initiated exchanges with MNUMS last April. Subsequently, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences sent a delegation comprising 16 faculty members and students to participate in the inaugural Mongolian International Conference on Occupational Therapy last June. The MoU signifies formal collaboration between the two institutions, enhancing international academic collaboration and exchanges. It will also provide valuable opportunities for faculty members and students from PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences to broaden their horizons and gain greater international exposure. Backed by its 45-year history in rehabilitation sciences, the Department has shared its knowledge and extensive experience in rehabilitation with their Mongolian counterparts, benefiting the local community and its people. The initial project under this collaboration involves establishing the first Assistive Technology Rehabilitation and Education Centre at MNUMS.

Prof. Hector TSANG, Chair Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, and Interim Director of the PolyU Mental Health Research Centre said, “The Assistive Technology Rehabilitation and Education Centre will be Mongolia’s first advanced assistive technology training centre, equipped with a range of advanced equipment, including 3D scanning and printing equipment for rehabilitation, and eye-tracking systems for augmentative and alternative communication. It will play a critical role in advancing training of local rehabilitation professionals and in empowering people with disabilities to be self-reliant. Our team of experts will spare no effort in sharing their expertise and work closely with rehabilitation therapists in Mongolia.”

This partnership has paved the way for student exchanges and research collaborations with other Belt and Road countries and regions. PolyU is confident in expanding and deepening its cooperation with MNUMS in the future and looks forward to establishing closer ties with other universities in the region.