For five decades, PolyU’s Department of Computing (COMP) has been a pioneering force in computer science, cultivating a diverse pool of talent for the industry. In early November, two distinguished talks and a gala dinner concluded the year-long celebrations honouring this significant milestone and highlighting the commitment to nurturing the next generation of computer professionals.

Since its inception in 1974, COMP has consistently adapted courses to meet industry demands in areas like e-commerce, finance, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the metaverse. This dedication has earned it international recognition, ranking 31st in Computer Science by U.S. News & World Report 2024, 87th in Computer Science in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, and 88th in Computer Science in QS World University Subject Rankings 2024 for Computer Science and Information Systems.

Exploring AI and Video Technology

Two distinguished talks were part of the Distinguished Talks Series – one of the remarkable celebration activities.

Hosted by Dr Huang Xuedong, Chief Technology Officer at Zoom, the session “AI Companion 2.0: Transforming Zoom into an AI-First Work Platform” examined how generative AI can boost workplace productivity through advanced task management and workflow optimisation. Dr Huang highlighted the innovative features of AI Companion 2.0 and presented Zoom’s strategic vision for an AI-driven workplace transformation.

In another talk, Professor Gao Wen, a Fellow of ACM and IEEE, addressed “Opportunities and Challenges in Video Encoding and Video Generation”. He examined the technological transition from traditional video formats to machine-oriented coding, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the AVS and AITISA Working Groups in developing generative video coding standards. These advancements in data compression are pivotal for enhancing visual communication capabilities and supporting emerging 6G technology.

A gala dinner concluded the celebration

Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU, expressed confidence in COMP’s continued excellence in education and interdisciplinary research.

The celebrations culminated in a gala dinner attended by around 250 distinguished guests, staff, alumni, and students. Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU; Ir Tony Wong, JP, the Commissioner for Digital Policy and Professor Li Qing, Chair Professor of Data Science and Head of COMP, delivered keynote addresses highlighting the Department’s achievements and future vision.

Ir Tony Wong, JP, the Commissioner for Digital Policy and a proud alumnus, addressed how important it is for the government, colleges, and businesses to work together to encourage creativity.

Prof. Li Qing, Chair Professor of Data Science and Head of COMP, shared insights on how the department is focusing on the future.

The evening featured the presentation of the Departmental Outstanding Alumni Award and commemorative anniversary pins to past awardees. The Department also recognised retired faculty and long-serving staff members with honorary plaques for their distinguished service.

The recipient of the Departmental Outstanding Alumni Award and previous awardees were honoured for their achievements and ardent support.

The gala dinner's entertainment programme included a specially composed anthem “Hand in Hand” performed by the COMP community, an innovative tron dance performance, and an engaging sharing session by four alumni from the inaugural cohort. The evening concluded with the sealing of a digital time capsule, set to be opened in 2029, symbolising the Department’s continuing journey of innovation and excellence.

The anthem 'Hand in Hand' was specially composed and performed in honour of COMP's 50th Anniversary

Watch the video about PolyU COMP.

Listen to the specially composed anthem “Hand in Hand” for COMP’s 50th Anniversary.