Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS24/H07/25
Project Title: Well-being of Hong Kong Citizens under Emerging Public Policy Agendas
Principal Investigator: Prof CHAN Chun-kwong (PolyU SPEED)
Abstract
The well-being status of Hong Kong citizens has been alarming in recent years. Based on the World Happiness Report 2024, Hong Kong only ranked 86 among 143 countries or regions and scored only 5.316 in average life evaluation (ALF). Hong Kong has been lagging behind majority of her Asian counterparts. This raises the pressing need to address well-being issues at the individual and societal levels of Hong Kong.
The World Health Organization views that health and well-being are inextricably linked. In 2015, the United Nations (UN) adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which offers a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were developed. Among the SDGs, SDG 3 aims at promoting good health and well-being while SDG 11 attempts to build inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities. Improving well-being of Hong Kong citizens help achieve the SDGs.
Since the promulgation of The Planning Study on the Co-ordinated Development of The Greater Pearl River Delta Townships and The 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for National Economic and Social Development and Vision 2035 of China places specific prominence on promoting well-being of citizens, “Healthy China”, and urban living. Among various national initiatives, the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) will be an economically and socially impactful focus of China and Hong Kong in the future.
The Policy Addresses 2022 to 2024 of Hong Kong addressed well-being issues as follows: (1) proactive integration into the country’s development, (2) enhancement of mental wellness of the community and improvement of citizens’ livelihood in pursuit of happiness, (3) enhance the quality of life of the citizens and improve their livelihood and well-being, and (4) development of “Well-Being” design guidelines for new public housing projects to create a living environment with a greater sense of well-being and its implementation measures by 2027.
Leveraging the expertise of a multidisciplinary team from the School of Professional Education and Executive Development of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU SPEED), the proposed project objectives are as follows:
1. To examine emerging public policy agendas related to well-being issues of Hong Kong based on local and overseas experiences;
2. To address research and policy gaps in promoting well-being of Hong Kong citizens through interdisciplinary dialogue among major policy stakeholders (including policymakers, professionals, policy researchers, academics, community organisations, and citizens);
3. To promote knowledge exchange and research collaboration on well-being issues among academics and professionals in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area;
4. To develop research and teaching capacity of local academics in well-being issues of Hong Kong.
Within 12 months, the project will organise an international conference, three research seminars, and one workshop to produce both scholarly and societal impacts. First, the project attempts to improve the research capacities of PolyU SPEED’s faculty and collaborating institutions, produce scholarly publications, and the submission of competitive research grant proposals. Second, the project intends to spearhead inclusive urban policies grounded in community engagement, more resilient and equitable societal framework, and ultimately improve well-being of citizens.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS11/H01/25
Project Title: Large Language Models and Data Science Applications in the Humanities and Social Sciences
Principal Investigator: Prof CHAN Sin-wai (SFU)
Abstract
This conference is jointly organized by Saint Francis University (SFU) and Hong Kong Chu Hai College (HKCHC). The event aims to bring together researchers to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing humanities and social sciences research.
The conference will feature four key sessions:
1) Deep Learning in the New Age – A humanities-focused exploration of AI’s implications.
2) New Advances in Data Science – A technically-oriented session highlighting recent developments.
3) Deep Learning in the Humanities – An in-depth examination of AI’s role in literature, culture, and related fields.
4) Data Applications in Social Sciences – A discussion on how AI can be applied to analyze societal trends and human behavior.
The conference seeks to foster collaboration among researchers, enabling them to exchange experiences, address challenges, and uncover innovative approaches for integrating AI into their work across diverse disciplines. Renowned experts from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Germany, the UK, and the USA will deliver insightful talks, sharing their expertise and perspectives on AI-driven research.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS14/H04/25
Project Title: Global Energy Transition in the Uncertain Age of Climate Change Governance
Principal Investigator: Dr CHAN Victor Chi-ming (HSUHK)
Abstract
The global energy landscape is witnessing an unprecedented transition, propelled by the swift decarbonisation of the global economy as a critical response to climate change and growing geopolitical tensions. But the transition to new sources of energy is fraught with unprecedented danger — supply chain disruptions, international rivalries, technological vulnerabilities and the challenge of energy security. With the world grappling with these complexities, a just, equitable, and sustainable future for all now depends critically on resilience-embedded energy systems.
The conference "Global Energy Transition in the Uncertain Age of Climate Change Governance" will convene experts from the fields of international relations, policy science, energy and sustainability, and green finance. Given these climate risks and global trends towards decarbonisation, this interdisciplinary conference will provide a timely and relevant forum for discussion and cooperation to design robust and inclusive energy systems.
Discussions will revolve around the challenges associated with the process of the global energy transition, such as climate-related financial risks, challenges to energy security, and the unequal socio-economic impacts of climate policies across regions. They will learn how to address these issues through international cooperation, innovative financial instruments, and sound policy frameworks can help promote a just transition and sustainable development. Of particular focus will be the power of green finance to accelerate the energy transition, while also tackling climate risks and ensuring that benefits of an energy transition are felt equitably across all communities.
The conference would additionally explore frameworks for regional and global partnerships to respond to cross-border challenges in energy governance for just and orderly energy transition in the rich and developing worlds.
Hong Kong can play a unique role in this theme. With its unique status as a regional research and innovation hub in green finance and energy transition, Hong Kong can transform its expertise in international finance and governance into tangible impacts on sustainable energy system development and global climate governance in our region and beyond.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS16/E03/25
Project Title: A Symposium on Digital Twin Research and Applications: Advancing Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future
Principal Investigator: Dr FU Yaru (HKMU)
Abstract
In the era of swift urban development, the concept of digital twins has surfaced as a transformative technological advancement poised to overhaul the planning, administration, and sustainability of smart cities. Digital twins are virtual replicas that mirror the physical characteristics and actions of tangible entities. Through consistent data collection on the operational status of physical infrastructure and subsequent data processing, digital twins enable seamless real-time synchronization between physical and digital realms. This synchronization, in turn, streamlines the management, optimization, and strategic decision-making processes for practical systems.
While digital twins hold great promise, their practical applications encounter several challenges and unresolved issues. These include ensuring the seamless integration of data from diverse sources to construct accurate and comprehensive digital twins, improving the fidelity and precision of digital twin models to capture real-world intricacies, developing scalable frameworks adaptable to the dynamic nature of physical systems, and fortifying digital twin edge networks and data against cybersecurity threats while upholding data privacy. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary research and collaborative efforts. Specifically, the successful implementation of digital twins and the realization of smart cities depend on collaborative endeavors across various fields such as computer science, intelligent communication, manufacturing, robotics, and beyond. Thereby, a gathering is of high necessity to bring together various stakeholders, enabling them to exchange up-to-date knowledge and experiences.
Under the circumstances, we will use this project to organize a two-day symposium titled “Digital Twin Research and Applications: Advancing Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future”. This symposium aims to explore the multifaceted applications and complexities of integrating digital twins into diverse smart city applications. Through this two-day symposium, we plan to provide a collaborative platform for experts from academia, industry, and government to exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster interdisciplinary collaborations in advancing digital twin technologies. In detail, multiple keynote speeches will be delivered during this symposium to explore the diverse applications of digital twins in smart city infrastructure, transportation systems, energy management, environmental sustainability, and sixth-generation communication systems (6G). Moreover, industry practitioners will be invited to share their innovative solutions, testbeds, and perspectives on utilizing digital twins in smart city contexts. Furthermore, policymakers will be invited to share strategic insights during the event.
Throughout the project implementation, we plan to engage undergraduate students, research scholars, and faculty members from Hong Kong Metropolitan University, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, and other institutions to participate. Doing so can be beneficial for fostering university students’ interest in conducting research based on the topics proposed in this project and developing multiple perspectives that will benefit students in their further studies and career aspirations. Furthermore, the topics covered in this symposium are essential components that could be integrated as new chapters within the curricula of related courses offered by the self-financing universities. In summary, the goal of this project is to create a mutually beneficial environment for students, faculty, and stakeholders, paving the way for the successful implementation of digital twins in smart cities within Hong Kong.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS14/P01/25
Project Title: Data Science Frontier: Expanding Horizons through Mathematical and Statistical Innovations
Principal Investigator: Dr LAM Shu-yan (HSUHK)
Abstract
The field of data science is undergoing rapid expansion, profoundly reshaping various aspects of our society. Technological advancements have granted us access to vast amounts of data in diverse formats, presenting us with both challenges and opportunities. One domain where data science has made a significant impact is e-commerce, where the analysis of streaming data provides real-time insights into customer behavior, enabling personalized recommendations and enhancing shopping experiences. Similarly, in the healthcare sector, data analysis of medical imaging and sensor readings yields valuable information for researchers, leading to innovative approaches in the treatment of chronic diseases.
At the heart of data science lie mathematics and statistics, serving as foundational pillars for the development of powerful tools such as deep learning models, a widely employed form of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Essential to solving data science problems is the transformation of real-world challenges into mathematical and statistical formulations. A comprehensive understanding of the underlying mathematics and statistics behind these tools, along with their adaptation to specific scenarios, applications, and problems, not only facilitates the discovery of improved solutions but also empowers researchers to develop novel data science tools. However, the current focus in data science education and practice often leans toward computer programming and software utilization, with insufficient attention given to the critical role of mathematics and statistics.
Therefore, the primary objective of this project is to organize a symposium that places a strong emphasis on the application of mathematics and statistics in the development of advanced data science tools for tackling complex problems. The symposium will bring together distinguished speakers from local organizations and renowned universities worldwide, who will share the latest trends and developments in four key thematic areas:
1. Machine Learning and AI: Exploring how these technologies can enhance operational efficiency and productivity, ultimately enabling automation and liberating human workers.
2. Economics and Finance: Investigating how data science empowers policymakers to make well-informed decisions, leading to more effective risk management, investment decisions, as well as fiscal and monetary policies.
3. Biostatistics and Health: Delving into the ways data science can uncover disease patterns, identify innovative treatments, and contribute to advancements in medical knowledge.
4. Industrial Data Science: Highlighting the pivotal role of data science in optimizing production processes, enhancing quality control, and improving resource allocation within industrial settings.
Each thematic session will conclude with an open discussion aimed at fostering meaningful interaction between speakers and participants, with a focus on effective research strategies. Many of our speakers are also associate editors or editors of academic journals, offering invaluable insights into identifying promising research directions, building networks, and publishing impactful work. This creates an important platform for all participants to exchange ideas and share their unique perspectives, enriching the academic and industry connections essential for the development of young researchers.
The symposium will be open to the public, including students and faculty members from local universities funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC), as well as self-financing degree-awarding institutions. By ensuring accessibility, the symposium strives to promote data science research to prospective students and expand the research interests of local scholars.
To summarize, this project aims to address the existing gap in highlighting the critical role of mathematics and statistics in data science. Through the symposium, it seeks to facilitate knowledge sharing, foster collaboration, and promote the development of advanced data science tools, ultimately benefiting academia and society.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS23/H01/25
Project Title: Transplantation of Shakespearean drama into Asian culture
Principal Investigator: Dr LAU Miriam Leung-che (HKBU SCE)
Abstract
2026 will be a significant year for Shakespearean scholars around the world. The biannual International Shakespeare Conference will be held in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, on the theme of “Shakespeare, Pleasure and Delight”, and the 12th World Shakespeare Congress on the theme of “Planetary Shakespeares” will be held soon afterwards in Italy’s Verona. Against the backdrop of these renowned international Shakespeare conferences, we propose to hold a hybrid online/face-to face conference to celebrate the fusion of Shakespearean drama and Asian performance art. This conference, entitled “Transplantation of Shakespearean Drama into Asian Culture”, will bring together the top Shakespearean scholars from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and the USA to discuss the localisation of Shakespeare in Asian theatre forms such as Cantonese opera (yue ju), Japanese noh, Taiwanese yu opera and Korean changgeuk opera.
Currently, there are three Shakespeare Associations in Chinese Mainland, the largest being the Chinese Shakespeare Association, which has around 300 members. The other two are the Chongqing Shakespeare Association and Hebei Shakespeare Association. Taiwan also has its own Taiwanese Shakespeare Association. While there is no active Hong Kong Shakespeare Association, Shakespeare is the most popular Western playwright among Hong Kong theatre practitioners and is thus integral to the construction of Hong Kong identity. Between 1997 and 2025, according to the dramall and artmate databases, Shakespeare was staged 120 times in Hong Kong, as compared to 19 times for Bertolt Brecht, 12 times for Henrik Ibsen, 10 times for Samuel Beckett, and 4 times for Bernard Shaw. Of the 120 Shakespearean performances staged by Hong Kong theatre companies post-1997, the most popular were Hamlet (staged 21 times), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (staged 16 times), Twelfth Night (10 times), Macbeth, King Lear, Romeo and Juliet and The Taming of the Shrew (staged 8 times), Titus Andronicus and The Merchant of Venice (staged 4 times), and finally Julius Caesar (staged 4 times). In view of the above repertoire, Shakespeare’s tragedies are slightly more favoured than his comedies by Hong Kong theatre practitioners
Shakespeare is staged both by large-scale repertory companies such as the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre and Chung Ying Theatre Company and by small-scale and experimental theatres like the Class 7A Drama Group. Children also perform Shakespeare’s plays; for example, primary school students from Shakespeare4All perform Shakespeare in English. Shakespeare has also been the inspiration for different art forms in Hong Kong; for instance, Utopia Cantonese Opera Workshop adapted Romeo and Juliet into the Cantonese opera of Martyrdom in 2013, and Keith Lai, a leading Cantonese opera actor in Hong Kong, similarly adapted Hamlet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream into Arrant Revenge and A Dream in Fantasia respectively in 2012 and 2021.
The proposed conference will enrich our understanding of the transformative power of Shakespeare in contemporary society. The publication of the conference proceedings as two edited volumes tentatively entitled Shakespeare Heterotopia and Shakespeare Transmedia by Routledge will strengthen scholarship on Shakespeare.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS24/B03/25
Project Title: Generative AI in Sustainable Marketing and Consumer Well-being: Promises, Challenges and Future Research Directions
Principal Investigator: Dr LEE Suet-mui (PolyU SPEED)
Abstract
Sustainable marketing is a marketing practice promoting products and services in a way that considers the impacts on individuals, society, and the environment. It aims to meet the needs of consumers while ensuring that future generations can meet their own needs, emphasising ethical practices, responsible consumption, and long-term ecological balance. It goes beyond promoting eco-friendly products and encompasses a holistic strategy that considers the long-term impacts of marketing activities. By adopting sustainable marketing, businesses can support the United Nations' SDGs, particularly SDG-3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG-12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), while fostering meaningful stakeholder relationships.
Advances in Generative AI (GenAI) are revolutionising marketing strategies. AI can drive sustainable marketing by promoting sustainable practices, hyper-personalising customer experiences, and enhancing program effectiveness and efficiency. While GenAI offers benefits for sustainable marketing, it also poses challenges that could harm consumer well-being. Research is essential for developing frameworks that ensure both effective and responsible use of AI and for comprehending the economic and social implications of AI-driven marketing. The marketing field is at a critical point where technological innovation must be balanced with sustainable and ethical considerations. Generative AI has the potential to significantly impact marketing strategies, but its use requires a thorough understanding of its broader implications. While commercial marketers increasingly incorporate GenAI into their marketing strategies, scholars encounter challenges in keeping pace with technological advancements and identifying research gaps in leveraging its potential, challenges, and implications for sustainable marketing and consumer well-being.
This proposal plans to organise seminars, workshops and a conference on emerging research directions in applying GenAI in sustainable marketing. The activities will feature distinguished speakers, including both international and local scholars as well as senior professionals who are renowned in the field of AI-driven sustainable marketing. The project will be led by a team of marketing researchers from different institutions, with research centred on sustainable marketing and consumer well-being. The event will create a platform for academics, practitioners, and stakeholders to exchange insights, foster collaborations, and identify new research opportunities, aiming to advance scholars' research capabilities to promote consumer and social well-being in the GenAI era.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS24/H03/25
Project Title: Co-Creating Assistive Robot Design to Facilitate Aging in Place
Principal Investigator: Dr LEE Wing (PolyU SPEED)
Abstract
Hong Kong is facing tremendous aging challenges, with more than 1.45 million, i.e., 20.5% of the population aged 65 or above (Census and Statistics Department [CSD], 2021) and the dependency ratio increasing from 198 in 2014 to 494 in 2040 (Our Hong Kong Foundation, 2017), causing immense burden on the long-term care system with extended waiting times. Moreover, the pressure and demand on residential care services remain significant (CSD, 2021). In response to such problems, the government advocates aging in place (AIP)—to live and age in one’s own home or community while maintaining independence, which is also an option aligning with the overwhelming preference of older adults. The barriers associated with AIP include insufficient assistive equipment, limited manpower, inadequate resources, fragmentation of the AIP ecosystem, and fear of burdening others (Lee et al., 2024; Woo, 2023).
A promising solution is assistive robots for older adults, which include two main types: physically assistive robots that provide assistance with daily living tasks, and socially assistive robots that offer companionship (Maalouf et al., 2018). These robots make AIP more achievable by helping older adults with daily living activities, enhancing mental health through companionship, and improving cognitive functioning through stimulating exercises (Wong et al., 2019). Research indicates positive outcomes when integrating assistive robots with the daily lives of community-dwelling older adults, maximizing their autonomy, preserving dignity, and delaying institutionalization (Bemelmans et al., 2012). The impact and benefits also extend to caregivers. Recent caregiver-related suicides and fatal incidents have highlighted the crisis in caregiver mental health and support. Robots can help with daily living tasks and monitor the safety of older adults, hence decreasing caregiver burden and enhancing well-being (Wong et al., 2019). Although caregivers are key stakeholders in both the adoption and actual use of assistive robots, developers often inadvertently overlook the importance of their input. For assistive robots to more effectively facilitate AIP, it is of paramount importance to examine and improve their user-friendliness, perceived usefulness, and design aesthetics. These improvements can enhance the adoption of assistive robots through the participatory design approach, i.e., a collaborative approach synergizing various disciplines and stakeholders to co-create products (Fang et al., 2016; Lee et al., 2025). Through this approach, assistive robots can be designed to closely address older adults' cognitive, psychological, and physical needs and day-to-day challenges (Rogers & Fisk, 2010). Technology acceptance is key to the adoption of robots in AIP. A crucial research gap is the scarcity of research integrating technology acceptance models with the participatory design approach to understand users’ needs. Notably, current findings indicate that significant enhancements in older adults’ awareness, acceptance, and trust towards assistive robots are needed (Chen & Wong, 2023).
Informed by both research and practice, recent trends and findings regarding assistive robots in aging in place will be shared and discussed through a two-day hybrid conference, featuring 13 distinguished invited talks in the plenary and main track sessions and 12 contributed papers presented across four parallel sessions. Two post-conference workshops will help consolidate knowledge and skills in co-creation research and practice. Advances in research and industry practice will be disseminated by leading experts in the field with cutting-edge, impactful research and extensive field experience from Canada, Greater China, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK, facilitating knowledge transfer among stakeholders, including academics, researchers, practitioners (designers, robot developers, technology experts, healthcare practitioners, policymakers, etc.), older adults, caregivers, and students, aiming to equip academics, particularly those from the self-financed sector, with skills to enhance their research capabilities, informed and inspired by practice and experience. In a similar vein, practice will also be enhanced by the latest research advances.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS13/E01/25
Project Title: Seminar Series on Artificial Intelligence applications in Health Science and Dental Science
Principal Investigator: Prof LO Wai-lun (Chu Hai)
Abstract
The rapid development of high-performance computing technology and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) over the past decade has significantly accelerated research and applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various industrial and commercial sectors. Furthermore, breakthroughs in deep learning and Artificial Neural Networks have fostered numerous practical AI applications in engineering and scientific fields. In Dental Science, AI applications such as the automated interpretation of radiographs, 3D image analysis for surgical planning, and monitoring treatment progress and predicting prognosis have been popular research topics. Additionally, there are many practical AI applications in health science and nursing, including diagnostics and medical imaging analysis, predictive analytics for patient deterioration, personalized treatment plans, virtual nursing assistants, and monitoring patient safety and mobility, among others.
This project will organize a three-day seminar series consisting of keynote lectures, invited speeches, and student workshops on AI applications in health and dental science. For the first two days, leading scholars in dental science and health science, computer science experts, and IT professionals from local and overseas institutions will be invited as guest speakers to share their research experiences. The seminar topics will cover the latest advancements in AI applications in health science, dental science, nursing, and physiotherapy. The seminar on the third day will introduce undergraduate students to the fundamental concepts and software development skills of AI applications. This series provides an interdisciplinary forum for researchers and experts to discuss recent innovations and applied AI research in health and dental sciences. It also offers students an overview of state-of-the-art applied AI research and serves as an opportunity to inspire local computer science educators to develop and enhance their program curricula by incorporating advanced topics in AI applications. This initiative aims to better prepare graduates for further research and professional career development.
The target audience includes academic and research staff as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students from local institutions. They may come from fields such as computer science, information technology, engineering, nursing, dental science, and health science. We expect this seminar series to promote a research culture within local institutions and advance research on the applications of AI in nursing, dental science, and health science.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS16/H01/25
Project Title: Aging, Subjectivity and Culture: Existential Psychological Issues of Chinese Seniors Living in Hong Kong
Principal Investigator: Prof MAN Eva Kit-wah (HKMU)
Abstract
This proposed project, exploration and understanding in purpose, focuses on the issue of subject autonomy and the cultural impacts on Chinese subjects living through aging processes in Hong Kong, under the influences of Confucian culture and its discourses of values in life. The aim is to achieve a deeper understanding of the cultural impacts on local elderly’s daily practices and decision-making. It is believed that the psychological state of local Chinese aging community incorporates cultural influences, among which the Confucian culture is the most dominant in Hong Kong. The tensions between these values and the subjective feelings of the aging groups offer important insight for social psychologists and policy makers, who help to refine the social services provision to local Chinese aging communities.
This project shares the view with the World Health Organization (WHO) that Culture matters, and that attention should be paid to the cultural contexts of living to enhance social policy-making. It is believed that cultural understanding is integral to the full complexity of being a subject and a holistic, lived experience and well-being. This project, through conversations and dialogues with academics and social workers, shares the observation attained in their care practices. It also learns from the self-narratives of the local aging subjects, integrating the complexities of lived experience under cultural context into an expanded evidence base.
To achieve its objectives, the proposed project is designed to be an integrative and interdisciplinary study of Humanities and Social Sciences, asserting the subjectivity stand then proceeds to examine the cultural impacts first and foremost. The PI of the proposed project researches on Confucian ethics and its contemporary impacts on body and emotion theories, and the issues of Confucian subjectivity. The Co-Is are social psychologists and gerontologists. The project acts as an exploratory platform for provoking thoughts, sharing observations and understanding the senior subjects’ psychological and mental struggles through their self-narratives. It also hosts exchanges with social practitioners on the ways to better serve and enhance the well-being of our elderly subjects.
The project invites 4 keynotes, who are local and international scholars from the UK and Canada, to deliver their insights and share their research findings related to the subjectivity and cultural issues. It hosts 4 professional workshops in which local social agencies in Senior care sectors share their observations regarding autonomy and cultural impacts from their work experience. Participants in the workshops will hear invited Senior subjects talking about their feelings regarding their well-beings and comments on the care they received from social agencies. The project is followed by a two-day symposium with the same theme with invited paper presentations. All the keynote deliveries and papers presented in the seminar will be published in book form as the project deliverable. With the design to gather experts and public audiences, the whole project will last for 4 days, with the first 2 days catering to the 4 workshops, and the subsequent 2 days for a symposium with 4 sessions. Each of the 4 keynotes will open a session and lead the discussion on the following topics: subjectivity and autonomy in aging; Confucian notions of aging and living values; influences of cultural values on well-being; and the social understanding and misunderstanding in the living of Hong Kong Seniors. It is expected that the conversation will involve revealing comparative studies on the subject in the UK and Canada.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS16/M01/25
Project Title: Exploring AI and Big Data Strategies in Environmental Sustainability
Principal Investigator: Dr PAN Min (HKMU)
Abstract
The seminar series titled "Exploring AI and Big Data Strategies in Environmental Sustainability" aims to foster dialogue among stakeholders and provide valuable insights from both local and international speakers on the role of AI and Big Data in environmental sustainability. This series will be held quarterly, with each seminar focusing on a specific topic. The topics include: ”AI and Big Data for Environmental Monitoring and Sustainability: Current Status and Breakthroughs”, ”Solutions and Approaches to Tackle and Monitor Environmental Degradation, and Identification of Habitats and Populations at Risk”, ”Challenges for AI and Big Data in Sustainability: Data Quality, Scalability, Governance, and Compliance”, and ”Future Research Directions for AI and Big Data in Environmental Sustainability”.
Each seminar will feature three speakers, including internationally renowned experts from various fields such as policymaking, planning, design, implementation, and monitoring. These experts will share their insights into the persistent challenges in our current environmental sustainability efforts and discuss how to enhance decision-making through large-scale data collection and data mining. The target audience includes university students, practitioners, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), commercial sectors, professional members in the field of environmental management and design, and the general public.
The goal of this seminar series is to initiate an exploration among stakeholders of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing framework and provide insights from both local and international speakers on the role of AI and Big Data in environmental sustainability.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS21/E01/25
Project Title: Application and Challenges of Blockchain Technology in Cross-Border Data Security: Practices and Prospects
Principal Investigator: Dr QU Bo (CTIHE)
Abstract
The rapid advancement of blockchain technology and its integration with emerging digital innovations have created transformative opportunities in cross-border data security, a critical issue for maintaining global stability and fostering economic growth. Cross-border data flows, valued at over 11 trillion USD in 2022, are essential for international trade and technical cooperation. However, they are increasingly threatened by data breaches, regulatory challenges, and geopolitical tensions. The introduction of laws such as The Data Security Law of the People's Republic of China and the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), alongside controversies like the Microsoft Ireland case, highlights the growing global competition over data sovereignty and governance frameworks. In this context, blockchain technology emerges as a promising solution to address these challenges.
Blockchain's decentralized architecture eliminates single points of failure, reducing the risks associated with traditional centralized systems. Its cryptographic techniques ensure data traceability and integrity, while smart contracts automate processes, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on intermediaries. Practical applications already demonstrate blockchain's potential: Hong Kong's "Trade Linkage" platform secures trade document exchanges, and the EU's eIDAS 2.0 initiative enables cross-border identity verification while safeguarding privacy. Future advancements in cross-chain interoperability and federated learning integration are poised to tackle complex compliance issues across jurisdictions, further enhancing blockchain's role in secure data flows.
Hong Kong is strategically positioned to excel in this field, capitalizing on its geographic advantages, well-established legal infrastructure, and deep connectivity to the Greater Bay Area's integrated financial, legal, and technological ecosystem. This project aims to leverage this position by organizing an international conference on "Blockchain Technology: Advancing Cross-Border Data Security." This event will serve as a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration among scholars, practitioners, and industry leaders to explore blockchain's applications in cross-border data security. The conference will feature six plenary lectures, two panel discussions, eight parallel sessions, poster presentations, and pre- and post-conference workshops. These sessions will delve into state-of-the-art research on blockchain's potential to enhance data security infrastructures while addressing challenges such as regulatory harmonization and ethical considerations. Workshops will provide hands-on training in designing and implementing blockchain solutions tailored to cross-border contexts.
Additionally, the project aims to support the growing demand for skilled professionals in distributed ledger systems, cybersecurity, international compliance, and policy coordination. By hosting an international conference to facilitate knowledge sharing and showcase industry advancements, it seeks to raise awareness of career opportunities, attract new talent to the field, and provide existing practitioners with access to cutting-edge insights for professional development.
Ultimately, the project aspires to deepen understanding of blockchain's societal impacts, forge global collaborations for evidence-based solutions, and position Hong Kong as a hub for innovation in cross-border data governance. This initiative will not only contribute to secure digital globalization but also enhance resilience against cyber threats while fostering economic development through secure data exchanges.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS16/E01/25
Project Title: Workshop Series on Reliable and Interpretable Deep Learning: Challenges, Theories and Applications in Biomedical Informatics
Principal Investigator: Dr WANG Dan (HKMU)
Abstract
Background: As a powerful part of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning has become ubiquitous nowadays, responsible for the underlying algorithms of many tasks like making personalized recommendations on Netflix and providing smart assistance via Siri. Beyond this, deep learning techniques have been extensively applied to various emerging areas, however, without sufficient quantification of reliability or explanation of the working mechanisms. Both academia and industry have raised many concerns about the unrestricted applications of such techniques, particularly in biomedical and healthcare contexts (as stated in ‘Warnings of a Dark Side to A.I. in Health Care’ from The New York Times). Acquainting the potential users of those techniques with the latest advancements of reliable and interpretable deep learning is therefore quite necessary, which boosts the initiation of this project.
Project objectives: Key problems in attaining reliable and interpretable deep learning often lie in three aspects, including data-related challenges, difficulties in measuring the reliability/ interpretability, and specific requirements from detailed application fields. Targeting these three aspects, this project aims to provide a comprehensive platform for sharing state-of-the-art knowledge in this field and equipping the participants with hands-on coding experience. Through this workshop series, attendees will have a better understanding of the major challenges, mainstream theories and future directions of reliable and interpretable deep learning. Besides, they will be familiar with the specific applications in biomedical informatics. In addition, academics and students from local institutions will have opportunities to collaborate with each other and communicate with overseas institutions for multi-dimensional development.
Implementation plans: This workshop series will be hosted jointly by Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) and Saint Francis University (SFU). It includes three seminars held over three consecutive days, followed by four practical workshops conducted over the next two days. This will lead to a total of 26.5 hours of effective learning. Each seminar, composed of a keynote speech, three following talks and a discussion session, will cover one of the three key problems as above. The practical workshops will supply the participants with hands-on coding experience in reliable deep learning and its biomedical applications. These free-of-charge seminars and workshops will be open to local self-financing degree-awarding institutions and University Grants Committee-funded universities, aiming to engage 910 attendees throughout the whole series. A website will be created to introduce this workshop series, share the related materials and accept online registration from potential participants. Upon successful completion, participants will be granted certificates of participation and receive a follow-up survey for possible enhancements in future implementations. Overall, it will bridge the applying institutions with local or overseas institutions in a multifaceted way, and encourage the responsible, ethical, and effective applications of deep learning technologies across diverse communities.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS24/H05/25
Project Title: Interdisciplinary Explorations of Language Aptitude in the Digital and GenAI Era: Innovations and Opportunities
Principal Investigator: Dr WEN Zhisheng (PolyU SPEED)
Abstract
Language aptitude refers to the set of cognitive abilities that enable individuals to learn foreign or second languages more effectively and efficiently than their peers, when other factors, such as devoted time and motivation levels are equal (Wen, 2012; Doughty, 2019). Research on language aptitude began with John Carroll’s pioneering work at Harvard University in the late 1950s and 1960s. In his classic model, language aptitude comprises four key components: phonetic coding ability, grammatical sensitivity, inductive language learning, and associative memory. The Modern Language Aptitude Test (MLAT), designed by Carroll and his colleague Sapon (1959/2002), has been used to measure language aptitude for decades, providing an important reference for subsequent aptitude assessments (Li Shaofeng, 2015; Skehan, 2015).
Recent years have witnessed notable advances in language aptitude theories and assessment batteries (Wen, et al., 2019; Wen, Skehan & Sparks, 2023). Despite its significant predictive power, the nature of language aptitude and the mechanisms behind it remain largely unclear, as do its optimal applications and pedagogical implications for language learning in diverse contexts, including digital and metaverse environments (Li Ping, 2022). The recent crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with the emergence of large-language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek, have significantly complicated the intricate landscape of language learning and teaching. In the prevalent digital and GenAI era, new questions have arisen that call for new answers from language researchers and educators in general, and language aptitude researchers in particular. For example, will our existing understanding of language aptitude still hold true in this new era? Will aptitude theory function as effectively as before? Or, most importantly, do we need to develop new components or new theoretical models of language aptitude in the GenAI era when programming and coding languages are commonplace phenomena?
Considering these new developments and emerging issues, we feel the imperative to revisit the concept and assessment of language aptitude and re-evaluate its potential implications for language learning and teaching in today’s evolving landscape. That is why we propose to convene and organize this international conference with essential support from the Inter-Institutional Development Scheme. Through this project, we aim to bring leading experts, laboratory directors and active investigators with their world-distinguished expertise from multidisciplinary fields of applied linguistics, psycholinguistics, language testing, educational psychology, cognitive psychology, computational linguistics, genetics, and neuroscience to gather in Hong Kong for three days of intensive interdisciplinary dialogue. Through various formats, including pre-conference workshops, conference presentations and round-table seminar discussions, we seek to present an updated view of language aptitude theories and assessment tools, while further exploring new constructs, new theoretical models and new applications that will address and tackle the thorniest issues arising from the current digital and GenAI era.
Anticipated outcomes and deliverables, including a multi-authored position paper and a thematic special issue or volume highlighting major innovations and looming opportunities for language aptitude theories and tests are expected to have lasting impacts on academia and the broader community in the short, medium and long term. Ultimately, we aspire to deepen our collective understanding of language aptitude and underscore the importance of being bilingual and multilingual in today’s diverse learning environments.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS14/B01/25
Project Title: Bridging Theory and Industry Practice: Advancing ESG Excellence in Hong Kong and Beyond
Principal Investigator: Dr WONG Pauline Wai-yee (HSUHK)
Abstract
The symposium brings together academic insights and real-world business practices to promote excellence in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts in Hong Kong and beyond, focusing on how ESG reporting affects company financial reports and the relevant rules and standards from regions such as the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Hong Kong is aligning its ESG reporting with international standards to create a consistent framework for companies to disclose their sustainability performance. The event emphasizes the equal importance of both theoretical frameworks and practical experience in ESG reporting, showing how they complement each other. Its goal is to equip participants with knowledge and tools to enhance their ESG initiatives, especially in accounting and finance, enabling them to comply with regulations and effectively implement ESG strategies in their organizations.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS24/B02/25
Project Title: Generative Artificial Intelligence X Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
Principal Investigator: Dr WONG Helen Shun-mun (PolyU SPEED)
Abstract
In the age of digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and particularly Generative AI (GAI), has emerged as an essential tool for reimagining business operations. According to the 2024 Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 89% of CEOs acknowledge and harness the potential of GAI within their organizations (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2024). Numerous executives also anticipate considerable improvements in efficiency and innovation due to investments in AI-driven infrastructure that fosters further experimentation and adoption (MIT Technology Review Insights, 2023). This widespread acceptance of AI highlights the pressing need to identify effective applications of GAI, as well as to engage subject-matter experts to facilitate ongoing dialogue and drive progress in these areas.
This project proposes a conference dedicated to exploring how GAI can be harnessed in marketing, human resource management, and supply chain management amid the rapid integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into today’s organizational practices. While GAI is widely recognized for enabling automation and personalization, it requires advanced socio-technical expertise to translate its conceptual value into meaningful and lasting impacts on societal well-being (Raman et al., 2024). Besides, the selection of marketing, human resource management, and supply chain management in this exploration is particularly relevant, as these business domains are integral to an organization’s value chain and involve the management of various salient internal and external stakeholders (Porter, 2000). As a regulatory framework, the disclosure of ESG practices integrated with GAI also supports daily organizational operations and provides a valuable guide for building an accountable, credible, and transparent organizational portfolio that ultimately contributes to corporate sustainability (Singhania et al., 2024). In sum, all these factors underscore the academic and practical significance of critically examining the intersection of GAI and ESG within these important business domains.
By convening academic and industry experts to share practical experiences, this conference will illuminate real-world use cases, common challenges, and actionable strategies. Such knowledge exchange is essential for expanding both research and practical applications, paving the way for innovative, consumer-centric, cost-effective, risk-averse, and sustainable transformations in these three critical business functions. This two-day hybrid conference will feature one seminar, 14 keynote presentations, and two parallel sessions, focusing on the latest advancements in marketing, human resources management, and supply chain management through the lens of GAI in alignment with the ESG framework.
The event aims to demonstrate how theoretical concepts can be effectively integrated with practical applications to drive innovation led by ESG standards, bringing together leading academics, industry professionals, managers, and students to exchange research insights, case studies, and personal experiences. The conference aspires to establish a cohesive network that fosters the advancement of GAI by incorporating diverse perspectives. Educators will have the opportunity to incorporate contemporary applications into their curricula, while researchers will gain insights to inform future investigations. Additionally, managers will learn to formulate more ethically and scientifically robust strategies, ultimately equipping society with a more responsible outlook.
Project Reference No.: UGC/IIDS14/H02/25
Project Title: AI Creativity, Ethics, and Interdisciplinarity: Symposium on Empowering Arts and Culture Communication through Generative AI
Principal Investigator: Dr WU Jing (HSUHK)
Abstract
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is among the most transformative technological advancements, presenting substantial opportunities and challenges for individuals and organisations. A recent report published by UNESCO underscored the significant impact of GenAI on the arts, culture and creative industries over the next five years. However, the widespread adoption of GenAI raises critical questions regarding its creative application, ethical considerations, and the need to balance risks and benefits – particularly in the domains of arts and culture communication, which involves the strategic management of the communication process about arts and culture contents and industries.
In Hong Kong, the arts, culture and creative industries have gained significant momentum, bolstered by the policies and plans of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), which designates the city as an international hub for East-West cultural exchange. To support this strategic vision, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau introduced the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development in 2024. Now, Hong Kong is home to over 1,000 arts groups that host approximately 8,000 performances annually, attracting more than 3 million spectators. Hong Kong is also one of the world's most significant art auction markets. International events such as the Hong Kong Arts Festival and Art Basel bring together top global artists and galleries, showcasing diverse cultures and creativity.
Aligning with these initiatives, the School of Communication at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong launched the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Arts and Culture Communication programme in 2024. In the era of AI, this programme plans to develop new knowledge, creative skills, and ethical frameworks for integrating AI as a meaningful and effective tool in teaching and creative communication. As more and more students and educators engage in the use of GenAI applications, it is essential to carefully balance the risks and benefits of integrating AI into creative and cultural industries while advancing teaching and learning in higher education.
To facilitate knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and practical applications, the project will include a two-day interdisciplinary international symposium focused on four key issues. Leading professionals from Finland, the U.S.A., Chinese Mainland, Macau, and Hong Kong will share valuable insights and up-to-date experiences on these key themes. The event aims to foster academic collaboration and encourage participants to integrate these discussions into their teaching and research.