News

PolyU “We Care We Share – Community Tele-Rehabilitation Programme in Mainland China” receives funding from the Keswick Foundation, expanding its service network nationwide

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) launched the “We Care We Share” team in 2014 to provide rehabilitation services to residents affected by the 813 earthquake in Ludian, Yunnan, China. With this year marking the 10th anniversary since the establishment of the team, PolyU has received a donation of HK$6.1 million from the Keswick Foundation to implement the “We Care We Share – Community Tele-Rehabilitation Programme in Mainland China” (the Programme), which seeks to replicate the successful experience in Yunnan across north-western and north-eastern China, thereby expanding its community rehabilitation service network nationwide. The expanded programme aims to provide rehabilitation service training for 5,000 local students and professional medical personnel, benefiting 500 families over the next three years. Dr David LAM, Legislative Council member (Medical and Health Services); Prof. Miranda LOU, PolyU Executive Vice President; Mrs Clara WEATHERALL, Chairman of the Keswick Foundation Board of Governors; Prof. Angelina YUEN-TSANG, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Keswick Foundation; Dr Laura LO, PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement); Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences; Prof. Marco PANG, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences; Prof. YAO Liqing, Vice Chairman of the Yunnan Disabled Persons’ Federation and Associate Dean of the School of Rehabilitation at Kunming Medical University; Prof. MA Ting, Dean of the Rehabilitation School at Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Ms DUAN Chen-yuan, a recipient of the Programme; and Ms Atta YU, a student member of the “We Care We Share” team, jointly officiated at the launching ceremony. Dr David Lam said, “Rehabilitation is an essential extension of medical care. Based in Hong Kong, the PolyU ‘We Care We Share’ community rehabilitation service network supports rehabilitation services and personnel training in Yunnan, which has further developed into a nationwide professional service and training system. With breakthroughs in rehabilitation brought by technological applications of artificial intelligence and robotics, I believe PolyU can contribute to the Nation by leveraging its strength in this discipline.” Prof. Miranda Lou remarked, “The We Care We Share Community Rehabilitation Programme has been running for over a decade, with the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences providing rehabilitation services and therapist training to the local and neighbouring communities in Yunnan. Through professional knowledge, skills, therapeutic services and care, the Programme has not only transformed the recipients’ lives, but also brought hope to their families and communities. Today’s launching ceremony marks a new milestone for the Programme. We would like to once again express our gratitude to our charity partner, the Keswick Foundation, for their continued support, which enables us to keep moving forward and contribute more to the society.” Mrs Clara Weatherall said, “It gives me great pleasure to join you in celebrating the further expansion of this remarkable programme. What makes ‘We Care, We Share’ particularly special is how it combines expert professional care with practical, innovative community solutions. Together, we are empowering local professionals, communities, and families to build sustainable, lasting change.” The Programme has gained extensive experience in community rehabilitation over the years. With the support of the Keswick Foundation and leveraging technology to achieve tele-rehabilitation and interregional and interdisciplinary collaboration, the expanded programme will build a community-based rehabilitation service network nationwide. Through a three-dimensional model of “technology empowerment, community linkage and talent cultivation”, the Programme will leverage innovative rehabilitation medical technologies to provide support to more groups in need, while also raising societal awareness of the development of the rehabilitation profession.

PolyU RS Signs MoU with Far Eastern University – Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Far Eastern University – Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore future collaboration opportunities. The MoU signing ceremony, held online, marks the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at enhancing academic and clinical cooperation between the two universities. 

Dr Laidi Kan Receives Faculty Distinguished Thesis Award for Depression Research

Dr Laidi Kan, a research student of Prof. Georg Kranz, has been honoured with the Faculty Distinguished Thesis Award of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, PolyU. This award recognises the high quality of Dr Kan's PhD thesis, titled "Towards the Optimization of Therapeutic rTMS for Depression Utilizing Concurrent rTMS/fNIRS". In this thesis, a novel concurrent setup utilizing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy was designed and utilized to optimize the antidepressant efficacy of therapeutic brain stimulation. This thesis includes six studies, four of which have been published so far. The first study investigated the transdiagnostic effects of TMS targeting the prefrontal cortex. The second and third studies explored intra- and inter-individual factors influencing TMS-induced prefrontal hemodynamic changes. The final three studies assessed the predictive value of these changes for prefrontal plasticity in both healthy controls and patients with depression. We would also like to extend our congratulations to Prof. Kranz, Dr Kan's Chief Supervisor, whose mentorship and support have been instrumental in this success. Please join us in congratulating Dr Kan on this well-deserved recognition.   

PolyU RS Signs MoU with Care Alliance

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Care Alliance recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the aim of exploring collaboration opportunities between the two parties in a number of areas, including talent cultivation, technology transfer, and scientific research collaboration. This cooperation framework will lay the foundation for innovation and development in the field of rehabilitation science for both parties. The signing of the MoU signifies a new phase of cooperation between PolyU and Care Alliance in the field of rehabilitation science. Both parties look forward to promoting the innovation and application of rehabilitation-related technologies and enhancing the overall standard of the industry through this cooperation.

Prof. Meizhen Huang Wins Prestigious Stroke Rehabilitation Award at ISC 2025

We are delighted to announce that Prof. Meizhen Huang, Assistant Professor in our department, has been honoured with the Stroke Rehabilitation Award at the International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2025, organised by the American Heart Association. Prof. Huang’s award-winning research focused on "In-Bed Robot-Guided Ankle Sensory-Motor Rehabilitation in Early Subacute Stroke Survivors: A Preliminary Clinical Trial”. The award is the result of a successful collaboration between Prof. Huang and collaborators at the University of Maryland, United States. This prestigious conference is a significant international event that brings together professionals developing effective therapies and exploring brain health and stroke recovery. Please join us in congratulating Prof. Huang on this outstanding achievement.

PolyU partners with Southern Medical University and SMU Shenzhen Hospital to establish International Sports Medical Rehabilitation Centre

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in partnership with Southern Medical University (SMU) and Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University (SMUShenzhen Hospital), have announced the establishment of the International Sports Medical Rehabilitation Centre (the Centre). This collaboration will leverage the academic and research strengthsof the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and SMU’s School of Rehabilitation Medicine, along with the extensive clinical experience and resources of SMU Shenzhen Hospital. The Centre aims to enhance the quality of sports medicine and rehabilitation services, and represents a significant advancement in the healthcare industry.  Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation),led a PolyU delegation to SMU for academic exchanges and site visits, focusing on cutting-edge sports healthcare and rehabilitation technologies. During the visit, a  Memorandum of Understanding for the establishment of the Centre was signed by Prof. Christopher Chao, Prof. LIU Shuwen, Vice President of SMU; and Prof. ZHOU Hongwei, Director of SMU Shenzhen Hospital. Prof. Christopher Chaohighlighted PolyU’s dedication to technological innovation, research translation and talent cultivation. The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences stands as a leading academic unit both in Asia and globally, boasting top scholars and experienced clinical instructors. This collaboration will accelerate the adoption of advanced sports healthcare and rehabilitation technologies, enhancing the competitiveness of the medical industry in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and elevating the standard of sports medical rehabilitation treatment. The Centre aims to integrate medical care, education and scientific research to provide patients with professional and high-quality sports medicine rehabilitation and clinical services. The services will encompass prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation training for sports injuries. A key focus will be on fostering collaboration through joint academic programmes, international exchanges, and clinical training, with the goal of nurturing a new generation of globallyminded rehabilitation professionals. By leveraging its extensive expertise in sports medical rehabilitation science, PolyU will play a crucial role in offering technical support and research guidance, actively contributing to injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programmes. Meanwhile, the research strengths of SMU and the PolyU Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology will be harnessed to advance sports science, intelligent rehabilitation equipment, and sports monitoring systems. The Centre will prioritise translating research outcomes into practical applications for the benefit of society. PolyU anticipates a continuing collaborative effort with SMU and SMU Shenzhen Hospital to establish the Centre as a globally leading integrated platform for medicine, industry, academia, and research. Through international partnerships, the Centre aims to cultivate professional talents and deliver high-quality medical services of superior standards.

Prestigious HMRF Fellowships for Dr Jack Zhang and Dr Shirley Zhang

We are delighted to announce that Dr Jack Zhang and Dr Shirley Zhang, Research Assistant Professors in our department, have been awarded prestigious 2023 fellowships by the Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF). Dr Jack Zhang will advance stroke rehabilitation through an innovative brain-computer interface (BCI) protocol that uses neurofeedback to enhance motor recovery. The grant supports overseas neurofeedback training in Germany and a clinical trial in Hong Kong, aiming to set new benchmarks in personalised neurorehabilitation. Dr Shirley Zhang will study apathy in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), focusing on brainstem and subcortical-cortical pathways using advanced imaging techniques. Her work seeks to uncover novel treatment strategies and improve progression predictions for those affected by PD. These achievements highlight our commitment to advancing healthcare innovation.

PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences launches “Better Ageing in Community Campaign”, applying AI technology to assess the fall risk of 2,500 elderly in the community

According to the Department of Health, in Hong Kong approximately one in five community-dwelling elderly individuals aged 65 or above fall every year, posing significant health risks to themselves and placing a potential burden on public health resources. To alleviate the pressure on the public healthcare system, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has partnered with several local community organisations to launch the “Better Ageing in Community Campaign”. The Campaign aims to conduct fall risk screenings for 2,500 elderly individuals to identify those at higher risk of falling, using artificial intelligence (AI) technology developed by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, and provide them with fall prevention training, translating PolyU research achievements into practical benefits for the community. Mr Fletch CHAN, Commissioner for Rehabilitation of the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government; Mr Tommy CHEUNG, Executive Council Member and Legislative Council Member; Mr LEE Chun-keung, Legislative Council Member; Dr Roy CHUNG, Honorary Chairman of the PolyU Court; Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) ; and Prof. Marco PANG, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, together with district officers and representatives from PolyU, jointly officiated the Campaign commencement ceremony. During the event, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the co-organising local community partners to establish a framework for future community work. Mr Fletch Chan said, “To promote the use of technology in the social welfare sector, the Government allocated $1 billion in 2018 to set up the Innovation and Technology Fund for Application in Elderly and Rehabilitation Care to subsidise eligible elderly and rehabilitation service units to introduce technology products such as fall prevention equipment.  So far, about $750 million has been approved.  In 2024-25, the Government injected additional $1 billion into the Fund and will expand its scope to cover gerontechnology products suitable for household use, with a view to benefitting more elderly persons.” Prof. Ben Young stated, “For more than 80 years, PolyU has been committed to innovating and providing quality higher education, bringing positive and powerful impact to the community. We have cultivated generations of students who have made outstanding contributions in the society. We aspire to be a leading university in pioneering knowledge transfer and in providing quality whole-person education, contributing to Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. It is our aspiration to bring meaningful changes to the lives of individuals and communities. This campaign reflects our mission.” The Better Ageing in Community Campaign aims to promote healthier ageing, with a particular emphasis on the importance of fall prevention among the elderly. Utilising AI technology developed by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and other tools, the experienced research and teaching team will supervise physiotherapy and occupational therapy students who volunteer to conduct comprehensive assessments for 2,500 elderly individuals aged 60 or above. The assessments will focus on fall risk. Based on the results, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences will invite those identified as being at moderate risk to participate in rehabilitation training, while those identified as being at high risk will be referred to District Health Centres for follow-up interventions. During the initial phase of the campaign, eligible elderly individuals will be recruited through the co-organising local community partners, with plans being made to expand the initiative to other districts in Hong Kong. The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences will analyse and compile the collected data, with the aim of assisting the government in optimising primary healthcare policies in Hong Kong.

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Inaugurates Master's Programmes for Academic Year 2024/25

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) marked the inauguration of the Master in Physiotherapy (MPT) and Master in Occupational Therapy (MOT) programmes for the 2024/25 academic year on 9 January 2025. The ceremony was graced by Ms Leung Yee-lee, Maggie, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation and Medical Social Services) from the Social Welfare Department, highlighting the importance of these programmes in shaping the future of rehabilitation services. Prof. Marco Pang, Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation, and Head of PolyU RS, delivered an inspiring speech. He highlighted the evolution of the master’s programmes and the growing global recognition of physiotherapists and occupational therapists as primary healthcare providers. His remarks emphasised the essential contributions these professionals make to modern healthcare. A key moment of the ceremony was the Student Pledge Ceremony, led by Prof. Pang. New students took an oath, pledging to uphold the core values and ethical standards of their professions. This ceremony marked the beginning of their journey into the impactful fields of physiotherapy and occupational therapy, celebrating their commitment to serving the community with compassion and integrity. Under the Training Sponsorship Scheme of the Social Welfare Department, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has been offering the two-year full-time entry-level MPT and MOT programmes in alternate years since 2012, and annually since 2021. Both programmes have been instrumental in training future rehabilitation therapists, contributing to easing shortages in these vital healthcare sectors.

PolyU RS Signs MoU with Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital/Wuxi Mental Health Center. This collaboration aims to establish a framework for cooperation in personnel exchanges and academic research. The signing of the MoU was witnessed by management of PolyU including Dr Lam Tai-fai, Council Chairman; Prof. Teng Jin-guang, President; and Prof. Dong Cheng, Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement). Representatives from the Wuxi Municipal Government were also present, including Mr Qin Yongxin, Deputy Mayor of Wuxi Municipal Government; Mr Zhao Junming, Deputy Minister of the United Front Work Department of the Wuxi Municipal Party Committee and Director of the Municipal Overseas Chinese Affairs Office; and Mr Da Xuerong, Director of Wuxi Municipal Health Commission. The MoU was signed by Prof. Marco Pang, Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, DoUBSN of PolyU, and Mr Yin Qitao, Director of Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital. The partnership is set to create invaluable opportunities for students and researchers, providing enhanced training and learning experiences in the field of rehabilitation sciences. By combining the strengths and expertise of both institutions, this MoU seeks to advance academic excellence, drive innovative research, and support professional development in rehabilitation.