News

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Inaugurates Master's Programmes for Academic Year 2023/24

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) proudly marked the inauguration of the Master in Physiotherapy (MPT) and Master in Occupational Therapy (MOT) Programmes for the academic year 2023/24 on 2 February. The ceremony, graced by esteemed government officials, underscored the significance of advancing rehabilitation therapy in a rapidly evolving societal landscape, especially in addressing the needs of an ageing society. Distinguished guests including Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare; Ms Leung Yee Lee, Maggie, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation & Medical Social Services), Social Welfare Department, and Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences joined key faculty members of the Department to officiate this momentous occasion. The ceremony commenced with a compelling keynote address by Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, who emphasised the crucial contribution of physiotherapists and occupational therapists in enhancing societal well-being. He encouraged students to embrace their academic journey as a determining period of personal and professional growth. Subsequently, Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, shared a speech as he recalled the inception and evolution of the Master's programmes, emphasising the global trend towards having physiotherapists and occupational therapists as first contact practitioners. A touching sharing session by recent programme graduates added a deeply personal dimension to the ceremony. Graduates including Ms Jaime Cheung, Ms Janna Hui, and Mr Mathew Chan recounted their transformative experiences during the programme, expressing gratitude for the invaluable learning opportunities and the profound impact on their professional journeys. Their stories served as a testament to the programmes’ ability to nurture compassionate, dedicated rehabilitation professionals with genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 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 of shortages in these vital healthcare sectors.

Celebrating the Spectacular Achievement of RS Student at the 2023 World University Games

We are happy to share that Ms Sham Hui Yu Lydia, a student of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Scheme in Rehabilitation Sciences in Physiotherapy, won the Bronze medal in Women’s Qiangshu at the 2023 World University Games. Her outstanding achievement was celebrated at the "Celebrating Triumphs of PolyU Sportsmen for the 2023 Asian Games and World University Games" event, where she shared her valuable experiences. Let's extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms Sham for this remarkable feat, and we eagerly look forward to witnessing her future successes!

Meet PolyU’s New Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences!

We are excited to announce that with effect from 1 February, Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Director of University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience, has assumed the role of Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Prof. Pang brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, having earned numerous accomplishments for his exceptional contributions to the field of neurological and geriatric rehabilitation. His commitment to translating cutting-edge research into community service programmes aligns perfectly with our department's mission for positively impacting on the lives of people with or without disabilities. We encourage you to connect with Prof. Pang to share your insights and learn more about his vision for the department. Looking ahead, we are confident that this leadership transition will usher in a period of enhanced collaboration, expanded horizons, and new opportunities for growth. We also thank Prof. Hector Tsang for his contribution. During his over six years of headship, RS has made collective achievements, including global recognition for our research endeavours and establishing collaborations with many institutions in Belt Road countries. RS continues to draw the brightest students with the highest average admission DSE scores. These milestones stand as a testament to our unwavering pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. Let's embark on this new chapter together — we look forward to your continued support and active involvement in the vibrant community of rehabilitation sciences at PolyU.

Dr Bolton Chau Awarded Research Grant to Conduct Brain Research

We are thrilled to announce a significant achievement made by Dr Bolton Chau, Associate Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS): he has successfully secured funding from the Research Grants Council Collaborative Research Fund for young researchers. His research project, titled “Exploring the Human Frontopolar Cortex in Decision Making: Neural Network Modeling, Aging, and Enhancement,” receives a substantial grant of HK$4,591,504. In this innovative project, Dr Chau will collaborate with scientists from esteemed institutions including the University of Oxford, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Baptist University, to focus on the investigation of the frontopolar cortex (FPC), a greatly developed region of the human brain. Despite the significance of the FPC, its role in decision-making remains largely unexplored. Using a combination of methodologies including brain imaging, brain stimulation, and artificial intelligence, the project team aims to unravel the mysteries of the FPC. Recent findings on which this research builds are outlined in a published article (see https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(23)00566-1for details). We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Chau on his outstanding accomplishment. In the competitive realm of Young Collaborative Research Grant, Dr Chau’s success highlights his expertise and dedication. This award is not only an honour of RS, but also an encouraging achievement for PolyU academic community at large.

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.

RS 45th Anniversary Gala Dinner: A Grand Celebration of Achievements

This year the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) marks its 45th anniversary since its establishment in 1978. On 4 December 2023, nearly 350 esteemed guests, including government officials, PolyU senior management, collaborators, amities from various PolyU departments, as well as RS alumni, staff, and students have gathered at Hotel ICON for the culmination of a year-long series of celebratory events of RS 45th anniversary—the RS 45th Anniversary Gala Dinner. The event was graced by distinguished guests including Prof. Jin-Guang Teng (President, PolyU), Mr Chris Sun (Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Labour and Welfare Bureau), and Prof. Hector Tsang (Chair Professor and Head of RS, Interim Director of MHRC), who delivered speeches commending RS for its dedication and outstanding accomplishments over the past 45 years. The evening commenced with a kick-off ceremony, symbolizing our shining wishes for the practitioners and stakeholders of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy to join hands and contribute to the allied health fields. Honorable guests, including Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, Mr Chris Sun, Dr Miranda Lou (Executive Vice President, PolyU), Dr Katherine Ngan (Court Chairman, PolyU), Ms Vega Wong (Commissioner for Rehabilitation Labour and Welfare Bureau), Dr Loretta Yam (Chairman, Departmental Advisory Committee, RS, PolyU), Dr David Mong (Chairmen and Group CEO, Shun Hing Group), Dr Cissy Choi (Assistant Commissioner for Primary Healthcare 1, Primary Healthcare Office, Health Bureau), Prof. David Shum (Yeung Tsang Wing Yee and Tsang Wing Hing Professor in Neuropsychology, Chair Professor of Neuropsychology and Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, PolyU) and Prof. Hector Tsang, participated in this symbolic ceremony. It thus came with a birthday cake cutting ceremony and a toast to mark the beginning of the dinner. To give an astonishing start of the dinner, renowned celebrity Miss Gin Lee graced the stage, captivating the audience with her moving voice and appealing songs. The programme continued with impressive musical and dance performances by RS students and alumni, who were also the participants of RS’s Got Talent 2023, and then followed by an alumna sharing session led by our departmental Outstanding Alumni Awardee 2023 Ms Ada Yu (Founder and CEO, OK CARE Limited). These performances and presentation showcased the success of RS in nurturing all-rounded individuals. The dinner reached its climax with an attractive singing performance on stage, featuring the renowned celebrity Mr King Lam, who are also an RS alumnus. Prof. Hector Tsang and the VIPs then joined the team to sing classical songs in the 1980s, bringing resonance of past memory among the alumni. The music was not only entertaining but has also sparked a singing fever among all guests, staff, and students. At the end of the event, Prof. Hector Tsang delivered the closing remarks and expressed his gratitude to the PolyU senior management team and collaborators for their unwavering support to RS. He also conveyed his best wishes to RS, bringing the event to a perfect close.

13th Pan-Pacific Conference on Rehabilitation (PPCR): Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

The 13th Pan-Pacific Conference on Rehabilitation (PPCR), organised by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) in collaboration with Chiang Mai University, was successfully held from 22 to 24 November 2023 at The Empress Convention Center, Chiangmai. With the theme "Health & Well-being Beyond the Era of New Normal," the conference convened global experts to address current advancements and challenges in rehabilitation sciences. The event commenced with a Pre-conference Workshop on 22 November, followed by two days of engaging sessions featuring 6 keynote speeches by esteemed speakers, they are Prof. Luc de Witte (Professor, Technology for Health Care, The Hague University of Applied Sciences), Prof. Andy Cheng, Ph.D. (Former Associate Head and Professor, RS, PolyU), Prof. Trevor Russell (Uni/Faculty Centre Director, RECOVER Injury Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland), Dr Natasha Brusco (Rehabilitation Stream Lead, Rehabilitation Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Health Economics Mentor; School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University), Associate Prof. Matthew Gullo (Clinical Psychologist, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University), and Prof. Amy Fu (Peter Hung Professor in Pain Management, Assoc. Head(RS), ADoRISports and Professor, RS, PolyU) . Their presentations covered diverse topics including technology for healthcare, injury rehabilitation, aging, mental health, and pain management, reflecting the conference's broad relevance. Prof. Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, delivered the welcome speech, emphasizing the conference's alignment with global post-pandemic challenges. He expressed confidence that the event would catalyze meaningful exchanges of research and innovation ideas among participants, fostering collaborations that transcend geographical boundaries. Throughout the conference, researchers and practitioners presented their innovative work through poster and oral presentations, competing for awards that celebrated excellence in rehabilitation sciences. Additionally, a dedicated PolyU concurrent session showcased RS academic staff's latest research findings and highlighted PhD opportunities, emphasizing the department's commitment to advancing healthcare solutions and nurturing future leaders in the field. The 13th PPCR not only showcased cutting-edge research but also underscored the commitment of RS PolyU and its partners to advancing healthcare solutions in a rapidly evolving world. It served as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration, driving forward the frontiers of rehabilitation sciences towards a healthier and more inclusive future.

29th Congregation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University - Department of Rehabilitation Sciences

The 29th Congregation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University - Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) was held in the Jockey Club Auditorium on the University campus on 9 Nov 2023. Congratulations to all the graduates and wish all of you could create a great impact in the rehabilitation sector!

5 RS Scholars ranked World’s Top 2% Scientists

We are delighted to share the good news that 5 RS scholars (listed below) have been ranked among the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists. The scholars were named in the latest release of the Stanford University-led compilation of citation indicators covering over 100,000 top scientists. They were grouped into 22 subject fields and 174 sub-fields using indicators including information on citations, individuals’ scientific research output, co-authorship and a composite indicator for career-long citation impact up to the end of 2022. Name of Scholar Subject Field Prof. David Shum (Chair Professor) Rehabilitation Prof. Marco Pang (Chair Professor) Rehabilitation Prof. Hector Tsang (Chair Professor) Psychiatry Prof. Shamay Ng (Professor) Rehabilitation Prof. Benjamin Yee (Professor) Neurology & Neurosurgery

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Inauguration Ceremony 2023/24

The Inauguration Ceremony for the academic year 2023/2024 of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) was held in the morning of 31 August 2023. The event marked the start of a new academic journey for the incoming cohort of students. Attended by a gathering of over 200 esteemed guests, including government official, scholarship donors, clinical educators, RS academic staff and students, various stakeholders have witnessed the significant occasion. Dr Lawrence Li (Deputy Council Chairman, PolyU) warmly welcomed the newly admitted physiotherapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) undergraduate students in his opening address. He shared that for the past 15 years or so, the BSc (Hons) in PT programme had consistently ranked the first among all first-degree programmes at PolyU based on admission scores, while the BSc (Hons) in OT programme had maintained a prominent position within the top three. Dr Li also acknowledged that this year would mark Prof. Hector Tsang's (Chair Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences and Head of RS, Interim Director of MHRC) final term as the Head of the department and expressed gratitude for his dedicated six-year service and contributions as the Department Head. We were so honoured to have Dr Pang Fei-chau (Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Health Bureau) as our officiating guest and delivered a speech. Dr Pang emphasised the increasing importance of rehabilitation services and highlighted the burning issue of insufficient skilled professionals in the field. He commended the new batch of PT and OT students for their dedication to serve the Hong Kong community. He also wished the freshmen a fruitful and enjoyable university life at RS. Prof. Hector Tsang has then delivered his welcome speech, highlighting the impressive accomplishments of both RS academic staff and students, and showcasing their excellence across various aspects. He mentioned the department's remarkable research performance and the international recognition it has gained, and he also elaborated on the department's continued success and ongoing endeavors. Followed by a series of prize presentations to the top students, Prof. Hector Tsang concluded the event with warm congratulations to the recently promoted staff members and expressed his gratitude to all the guests who attended the ceremony.