Student Affairs Office E-newsletter Issue 4

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Welcome to SAO Connect!

This newsletter is designed to keep you updated on the latest developments, significant student achievements and exciting opportunities from the PolyU Student Affairs Office (SAO). We hope you find this newsletter engaging and that it helps you stay connected with our community!

Ceremony Luncheon for Outstanding Contribution Award and Welcoming New Members of the PolyU Student Flag Raising Team

The Ceremony Luncheon for the Outstanding Contribution Award and the welcoming of new members of the PolyU Student Flag Raising Team was held on 20 November 2024. Officiating at the Ceremony, Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) welcomed all Team members and extended his warmest congratulations to the 17 students honoured with the Outstanding Contributions Award. He praised their commitment, recognising their considerable effort in practising and performing flag-raising ceremonies amidst their demanding academic schedules.

The Ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Prof. James DAI, Associate Dean of Students, who invited awardees and new members to join in singing “Ode to the Motherland” 《歌唱祖國》, celebrating their shared love for the Nation. This event not only recognised individual achievements but also reinforced the commitment to patriotism within the student body and the broader PolyU community.

PolyU Student Awarded One Gold, One Silver and One Bronze Medal at “The 3rd Taolu World Cup”

A PolyU Wushu athlete achieved remarkable results at the 3rd Taolu World Cup held in Yokohama, Japan, in October 2024.

SHAM Hui Yu Lydia, a student of the BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy, won a total of three medals - a gold medal in Women’s Qiangshu, a silver medal in Women’s Duilian and a bronze medal in Women's Jianshu.

PolyU Student Awarded Silver Medal at “World Aquatics Swimming World Cup 2024 - Stop 2”

Congratulations to a PolyU swimming athlete for an outstanding result at the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup 2024 - Stop 2, held in Incheon, Korea, in October 2024.

NG Lai Wa, a student of the BSc (Hons) in Medical Laboratory Science, secured second place in the Women's 1500m freestyle event.

PolyU Student Awarded Bronze Medal at “17th Asian Cross Country Championships”

PolyU cross country athletes and alumni achieved impressive results at the 17th Asian Cross Country Championships held in Hong Kong in October 2024.

TSE Chun Yin, a student of the BBA (Hons) in Marketing, and LO Ying Chiu, an alumna of the BA (Hons) in Chinese & Bilingual Studies, won a bronze medal in the Men's Senior Team 10km event and the Women's Senior Team 10km event, respectively.

PolyU Sports Teams Clinch Top Places and Set Records at “2024/25 Inter-Collegiate Competitions”

PolyU Sports Teams have demonstrated exceptional performance in the first phase of the 2024/25 Inter-Collegiate Competitions, organised by the University Sports Federation of Hong Kong, China (USFHK).

The Swimming Team excelled in the competition held on 13 October 2024, with both the Men’s and Women’s teams finishing as 1st runners-up, collectively securing the title of Overall Champion. This remarkable achievement highlights the teams' dedication and skill. Notably, NG Lai Wa, a Medical Laboratory Science student, set a new record in the Women’s 200M Individual Medley, showcasing her exceptional talent, while the PolyU Women’s 4x100M Freestyle Relay team also made headlines.

In the Cross Country race on 10 November 2024, the Men’s Team secured the 1st runner-up position, demonstrating their competitive spirit and endurance, with TSE Chun Yin, a Marketing student, crowned Individual Champion. The Women’s Team and Overall standings also saw PolyU achieve 2nd runner-up status, further solidifying the team's reputation in this challenging sport.

The Water Polo competition on 1 December 2024 saw the Men’s Water Polo Team emerge as Champion, marking a significant triumph for the team. Individual awards were also earned, with CHING Tsz Shun, a Hospitality Management student, being named Top Scorer, and YUEN Ting Lun, an Applied Biology with Biotechnology student, receiving the Most Valuable Player award.

As the second phase of the Competitions approaches, anticipation builds for further noteworthy achievements from our dedicated student-athletes. Best of luck to all teams!

Anti-Deception Campaign: A Student Sharing on Successfully Preventing Students from Being Deceived

Recently, there was a case of telephone fraud on campus involving a scam where the caller pretended to be an official. A vigilant student recognised the scam and promptly notified SAO and the Police, leading to timely intervention and the prevention of potential financial loss for his classmate.

His quick action followed a three-step process:
1) Applying the anti-fraud knowledge he learned from the Anti-deception Learning Kit, identifying that his classmate was at risk of falling victim to the scam;
2) Seeking help immediately through the WeChat group with the Police; and
3) Through collaboration between the Police and the Non-local Student Services Team staff, swiftly locating the victim and stopping him from completing any transaction.

After the incident, the victim shared his experience in a video, detailing how he was threatened and manipulated by the scammers.

President’s Sharing Session with Students of the 2024/25 Academic Year

To enhance dialogue between students and University Management, the first President’s Sharing Session with Students of the 2024/25 academic year was held on 24 October 2024, with over 100 students participating.

The session offered an invaluable opportunity for students to connect directly with the PolyU Senior Management Team, sharing their perspectives and posing questions. President Jin-Guang TENG kicked off the event with a presentation on the latest developments and initiatives at the University, followed by Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) Prof. Ben YOUNG, who highlighted the various student support services available at PolyU.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A session, addressing key student concerns regarding campus facilities, dining options, accommodation and academic matters, fostering open communication and a better understanding of student experiences.

Outstanding Student Academy: Achieving Unity in Diversity

The newly established Outstanding Student Academy aims to nurture outstanding students as the next generation of leaders. In 2024/25, 19 awardees of the Outstanding Student Awards and Presidential Student Leadership Awards joined as Exco members of the Academy. To date, Exco members have met four times to strengthen their connection, vote on the Academy’s logo and discuss upcoming activities.

On 2 November 2024, Exco members, along with students from diverse backgrounds, enjoyed an unforgettable time at the Bamboo Lamp Workshop held in Mui Wo. Students immersed themselves in the art of bamboo scaffolding and bamboo lamp-making. Each beautifully crafted lamp stands as a testament to their hard work and creativity. Some of the lamps were donated to the elderly in the community, sharing love and care beyond PolyU.

The workshop also featured a session on low-carbon cooking, in which participants learned how to prepare delicious meals using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable cooking methods. This enriching and meaningful activity allowed students to appreciate the diversity of talents and backgrounds, fostering a sense of collaboration and celebrating “Unity in Diversity”.

President’s Luncheon with Students

The President’s Luncheon with Students, organised by SAO, was held on campus on 14 October 2024. Hosted by President Jin-Guang TENG, the event brought together students from diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines, and fostered lively interactions and meaningful connections.

Attendees included Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), Prof. Kwong-yin WONG, Vice President (Education), Prof. Daniel T.L. SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme), and Prof. James DAI, Acting Dean of Students, who contributed to enriching discussions.

Over a delicious meal, participants shared ideas, experiences and aspirations, making it a memorable afternoon that strengthened bonds within the PolyU community and left a lasting impact on all involved.

EAGLE the Adventurers Celebrate Student Achievements with Society Leaders and Guests

On 18 October 2024, the “EAGLE: Global Youth Leadership Programme” (EAGLE) gathered 90 students, society leaders, partners and guests to celebrate students’ accomplishments in the EAGLE the Adventurers 2023/24. These students led self-designed sustainable social innovation and co-creation projects aimed at solving various community problems in Nepal.

During the evening, Prof. Ben YOUNG, PolyU’s Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), expressed the University’s heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support from the PolyU community, alumni and partners. The graduating students of EAGLE the Adventurers 2023/24 also shared their leadership experiences at the panel discussion, in front of guests who included CEOs, faculty deans, department heads and other society leaders.

EAGLE the Adventurers 2023/24 has been showcased in a programme video and impact report:

EAGLE 2023/24 Programme Video - https://polyu.hk/wdwiU
EAGLE 2023/24 Impact Report - https://polyu.hk/VMURt

Induction for 2024/25 Elected Members of Council and Senate, and Appointed Student Representatives of University Committees and Institutional Services

Nineteen appointed student representatives of University Committees and Institutional Services came together with the elected student members of Council, and Senate and its Committees for an engaging Induction cum Luncheon with the PolyU President on 13 November 2024. The programme, jointly hosted by SAO and the Academic Registry, featured practical information from the Assistant Secretary to Council, the Registrar and the Secretary to Senate. Students networked with committee secretaries and staff members of institutional services, fostering connections within the University community. The induction session concluded with closing remarks from the Acting Dean of Students.

Congratulated on their appointment, student representatives were invited to a luncheon with the PolyU President and Vice President (Global and Student Affairs) for insightful interactions and a rich exchange of innovative ideas.

Navigating Your Path to Psychological Wellness

This semester, we have aimed to empower students with resilience and well-being activities to further weave meaningful connections among peers and the PolyU community: +VE Power Up organised Sound Healing Workshops and insightful talks by an animal-assisted therapist and a counselling psychologist; Support Hunting provided encouragement to students during the intense mid-term period; Wellness Recharge Week, held from 28 October to 1 November 2024 in collaboration with internal and external partners, refreshed students both physically and mentally; while a talk titled "Understanding Adult Attachment Styles and the Importance of Setting Social Boundaries", held on 12 November 2024 to highlight self-awareness and healthy relationships, served as a prelude to upcoming events in Semester Two.

PolyU Alumni Career Sharing Night

On 22 November 2024, PolyU Alumni Career Sharing Night brought together 100 students and alumni from various sectors of society. Recent alumni shared their job experiences and offered first-hand insights into the latest market trends. The gathering fostered an environment where PolyU students could enhance their career readiness, acquire essential industry knowledge and explore potential career paths.

The alumni emphasised the importance of lifelong learning for holistic development and provided valuable advice on career planning as well as job hunting. The event was a resounding success, inspiring student in their career development and strengthening connections between students and alumni.

Dialogue with Vice President (Student and Global Affairs)

Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), along with SAO management representatives, held fruitful discussions with PolyU taught postgraduate students, hall associations and student hall tutors on 17 October, 18 November and 16 December 2024 respectively. These sessions provided an essential platform for students to express their concerns and share their experiences, while allowing management to engage directly with students regarding various matters.

During the gatherings, students shared their experiences and raised concerns on a range of topics, covering academic studies, employment, university development, accommodation, hall mechanisms and student resources.

SAO Courtesy Visit

On 21 November 2024, SAO made a courtesy visit to Mr Stephen WONG, the newly-appointed Director of Campus Facilities and Sustainability. The visit provided an opportunity to exchange views about SAO's initiatives. Prof. Albert CHAN, the Dean of Students, along with Prof. James DAI, the Associate Dean of Students, engaged in a productive dialogue with Mr Wong. During the discussion, SAO acknowledged the professional security and crowd control support provided by the Campus Facilities and Sustainability Office for University-wide events organised by SAO. Both sides also shared ideas on enhancing services and support for non-local students and expressed their eagerness to maintain close collaboration in the future.

Engage and Energise: A Series of Hostel Activities

The Inter-Hall Dodgeball Competition 2024, held on campus over the weekend of 12 and 13 October 2024, provided a vibrant display of sportsmanship, cultural exchange and unity. Teams from various halls, each with a mix of students from different cultural backgrounds, including local, mainland and international students, competed together, transcending cultural boundaries and fostering an inclusive atmosphere. The event not only promoted physical fitness but also strengthened bonds among students, creating lasting memories and a sense of community.

In talks titled "What is Intercultural Understanding?", Prof. Kwok-ying LAU shared insights into intercultural exchanges among Chinese, Indian and European cultures, along with lessons to be learnt from "primitive societies" studied by anthropologists. He highlighted how these societies' cultural practices, social structures and respect for nature provide valuable lessons for us when facing contemporary social and environmental challenges. The talks concluded by advocating for enhanced intercultural understanding to promote peace and equality.

Two study tours to the LINK Sustainability Lab were conducted on 16 November for hall residents to learn ways to make sustainable living accessible, actionable and achievable. Inspired by the study tours, participants created short videos featuring practical green living suggestions for the Green Tips Video Competition on 20 November 2024.

Inclusive Activities for Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Between October and November this year, the SEN Caring Team organised a variety of inclusive activities to create integration platforms for SEN students to unwind and connect with their peers in enjoyable ways.

On 7 October 2024, 15 SEN students joined a badminton gathering, energising themselves during their busy study schedules and building new friendships through the joy of playing sports. Additionally, a further 15 SEN students and “Limitless” ambassadors shared laughs and made new friends while exploring Ocean Park Hong Kong on 19 October 2024. A relaxing board game night and dinner gathering, held on 24 October 2024, brought together around 40 SEN students and “Limitless” ambassadors to celebrate their hard work after the mid-term examinations. These inclusive activities offered students with SEN opportunities to more actively engage in campus life.

Abilities Unbound: Human Library for Supporting Diverse Workplace Needs

Organised on 15 November 2024, the event, which aimed at enhancing employer understanding of employees with diverse needs and thereby embracing inclusive employment, gained support from over 50 representatives from 30 companies/organisations in various sectors and industries.

Following the welcoming speech by Acting Dean of Students Prof. James DAI, Co-founder and CEO of CareER, Mr Walter TSUI, M.H., along with four PolyU students with diverse needs, opened their hearts and shared personal stories about their workplace experiences with the employer and partner guests who sought a deeper understanding of key considerations for inclusive talent management. Our great thanks go to all the guests and speakers for their commitment to fostering a more diverse, equitable and inclusive employment landscape.

Exercise is Medicine on Campus (EIM-OC) – Fitness Challenge 2024

The EIM-OC Fitness Challenge 2024, held on 29 and 30 October 2024, was a dynamic event celebrating fitness and personal growth. Participants engaged in a series of assessments, including the Vertical Jump, Grip Strength and Sit Up, to evaluate their fitness levels.

With expert guidance from qualified fitness consultants, participants then received personalised exercise plans to achieve their training goals. They also had the opportunity to redeem exciting gifts based on their fitness levels, adding an element of fun and motivation. The event fostered a community of health enthusiasts, inspiring everyone to continue their journey towards improved fitness and well-being.

Group Leader Appreciation Dinner

On 22 November 2024, SAO hosted the Group Leader Appreciation Dinner to recognise our outstanding Group Leaders who have made significant impact throughout the semester.

The Dinner acknowledged their commitment and support in helping non-local and exchange students adapt to university life. Our Group Leaders work closely with the Non-local Student Services Team, playing a crucial role in fostering personal growth, building connections across cultures and creating a sense of community. We celebrated their achievements, guiding their peers and forging lasting bonds that unite us all. Their efforts help ensure that every student feels welcome and valued, laying a strong foundation for a diverse and inclusive environment.

We are immensely grateful for their dedication and the positive influence they have had in our community.

Exploring Hong Kong Series

On 3 November 2024, the Non-local Student Services Team took over 100 students to Ngong Ping and Tai O. Not only did the students enjoy the Crystal Cabin cable car ride with its spectacular views and visit the giant Buddha statue, but they also experienced making salted egg yolk and fishing nets with their schoolmates. They saw the traditional stilt houses during the boat trip and walked around Tai O, accompanied by tour guides to discover this historic fishing village!

On 13 November 2024, around 50 students experienced the fantastic night-view of Hong Kong Island on an open-top double-decker bus, learning more about Hong Kong through the on-board commentary.

Fun and Fuel

From getting free steamed rice pudding and local street food postcards with encouraging messages designed by students, to enjoying fortune cookies, mini-games, card design and the experience of making local snacks (ding-ding candy), around 230 students had a well-deserved break in a delicious and relaxing atmosphere at “Fun and Fuel” on 8 November 2024.

Many thanks to Dr Kelvin CHENG, Acting Dean of Students, Miss Joyce CHEUNG, Section Head (Student Resources and Support) and our Group Leaders (senior students) from the Non-local Student Services Team for cheering and supporting our students!