Student Affairs Office E-newsletter Issue 5

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Welcome Message from the Interim Dean of Students

Dear Students

I am truly honoured to serve as your Interim Dean of Students and to contribute to this vibrant PolyU community in my new capacity. Having assumed this role on 16 January 2025, I am enthusiastic about the opportunities that await each of you.

With many years as a professor in the PolyU Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, I am excited to bring my longstanding commitment to education into this concurrent position in the Student Affairs Office. I am committed to fostering holistic education, ensuring that we not only provide academic support but also promote personal development for every student.

Our commitment to your growth remains steadfast. We strive to cultivate an inclusive environment where all students can thrive, connect and engage in meaningful experiences. This newsletter will serve as your guide to upcoming events, valuable resources, and initiatives designed to support your learning journey at PolyU.

I eagerly look forward to meeting many of you and hearing your ideas and insights as we continue to enhance your educational experience together.

Wishing you all the best in your studies and endeavours!

Warm regards

Horace Mui
Interim Dean of Students

A Home Away from Home: The PolyU Host Family Scheme

To enrich the experience of new Mainland Chinese undergraduate students, the Student Affairs Office has launched the Host Family Scheme for Mainland Students in 2012. Supported by the PolyU Staff Evangelistic Mission (SEM), approximately 1,500 students have been supported by the Scheme over the years. Dr Juanna Chan, Ministry Director of SEM, along with host family parents and student representatives, shared their experiences and the benefits they have derived from the Host Family Scheme for Mainland Students with SAO.

To learn more about this caring initiative, please click here to read the full article.

Rowing Club Wins Gold Medals at AISL Harrow Rowing Regatta 2024

PolyU earned first place in two of the University Championship events at the high-profile AISL Harrow Rowing Regatta 2024 held in Zhuhai on 30 November and 1 December. Among over 130 rowing teams from the Greater Bay Area and around the world, contestants from the PolyU Rowing Club outshone other elite rowers by winning gold medals in both the 4X+1000m and 4X+2600m Women’s Coxed Quads Sculls events.

Our PolyU rowers are proud to take on further challenges as they participate in other international competitions and, in so doing, help promote cultural exchange.

PolyU Student Awarded Bronze Medal at 2024 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships

Chan Chung-yin, a Civil Engineering student, demonstrated exceptional skill and precision to secure a bronze medal in the Men's Recognized Poomsae U30 Team event at the 2024 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships held in Hong Kong on 3 December.

Photo: Chan Chung-yin, Civil Engineering Student (1st from right)

PolyU Students Set New Hong Kong Record at 2024 World Aquatics Swimming Championships

Tam Hoi-lam, a Physiotherapy Master student, and Ng Lai-wa, a Medical Laboratory Science student, put in outstanding performances at the 2024 World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) in Budapest, Hungary on 10 December. Tam Hoi-lam broke the Hong Kong women's 50-metre butterfly record, followed by a remarkable collaboration with Ng Lai-wa to set a new Hong Kong women's 4x100-metre freestyle relay record. Their achievements underscore both their individual excellence and the power of teamwork.

PolyU Student Sets New Hong Kong Record at 318th Nittai University Long Distance Meet & 13th NITTAIDAI Challenge Game

Tse Chun-yin, a Marketing student, showcased incredible endurance by breaking the Hong Kong men's 10,000-metre record at the 318th Nittai University Long Distance Meet & 13th NITTAIDAI Challenge Game in Yokohama on 1 December.

Link University Scholarship 2024/25

Fourteen PolyU first-generation university entrants were awarded a Link University Scholarship in 2024/25. The Scholarships recognise outstanding performance in academic pursuits and community service, encouraging students to pursue their dreams. The outstanding PolyU students were presented with scholarship certificates at the Link University Scholarship Presentation Ceremony on 8 March.

Inauguration Ceremony of the Outstanding Student Academy

The Inauguration Ceremony of the Outstanding Student Academy was held on 20 February at the Wong Man and Tang Kit Wah Global Student Hub. The Academy was honoured to have President, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng present Academy Lapel Pins to the 15 Executive Committee (ExCo) members, recognising their all-round achievements. During the Ceremony, Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), highlighted the Academy’s four core objectives and its vision of empowering students to make meaningful impacts locally and globally.

The event also featured a speech by ExCo President Wang Yanze Steve, who expressed gratitude for PolyU’s support, and a Guzheng performance by ExCo member Ge Yufei Harriet.

Since its inauguration, the Academy has organised several workshops promoting Green Policy. Its upcoming initiatives include a High Table Dinner cum Dean of Students Talk Series and an overseas trip, designed to broaden members’ global perspectives and strengthen their sense of social responsibility.

"INSPIRE" Mentorship Programme Annual Gathering 2024

PolyU’s “INSPIRE” Mentorship Programme Annual Gathering 2024 was held on 9 January 2025 at Hotel ICON, with around 270 mentors and mentees coming together to exchange experiences of their invaluable mentoring journeys over the year.

The Gathering, themed “Igniting Flourishing Paths”, commenced with a celebratory toast from PolyU Council and Court members who are also mentors, along with the PolyU Senior Management Team. During the event, appreciation videos were shown to highlight the remarkable connections built, while performances by the PolyU Student Affairs Office Chinese Orchestra celebrated the spirit of camaraderie fostered through “INSPIRE”.

PolyU Welcomes 2025: A Celebration of Prosperity and Stability at New Year Flag-Raising Ceremony

PolyU ushered in the New Year with a vibrant flag-raising ceremony on campus on 1 January. As we stepped into 2025, this annual event served as a heartfelt celebration, symbolising hope and prosperity. Conducted by the PolyU Student Flag-Raising Team, the Ceremony also aimed to foster a spirit of patriotism among both students and staff. Attendees gathered to witness the National, Hong Kong and University flags being raised, sharing in a collective wish for prosperity and stability for both Hong Kong and the Nation. This event not only marks the beginning of a new year but also reinforces the University’s commitment to community and national pride, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

PolyU Awarded Good Organisation Award at Good Citizen Award (GCA) Presentation Ceremony 2024

We are thrilled to announce that PolyU has been honoured with the "Good Organisation Award" at the “Good Citizen Award Presentation Ceremony 2024” held by the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) on 23 February 2025. The Ceremony recognised 80 citizens and seven organisations for their contributions to crime prevention and public safety.

In collaboration with HKPF, PolyU launched the "Online Anti-deception Learning Kit" in 2024, requiring all new students to complete the kit before enrolment. As of December 2024, over 13,000 students had participated, leading to a significant reduction in telephone deception cases targeting PolyU students, particularly among non-local students.

In the third quarter of 2024, the number of victims on campus decreased by 50% year-on-year, accompanied by a notable reduction in financial losses. Meanwhile, the University continues to hold anti-deception seminars on campus to promote increased awareness among students.

This recognition highlights our commitment to supporting the HKPF and promoting good citizenship within the community.

President’s Sharing Session with Students

The President's Sharing Session with Students 2024/25 was held on 20 March this year, highlighting the University's commitment to fostering open communication and engagement with the student community. Students actively participated, sharing their perspectives and posing questions directly to the Central Management Team (CMT).

Our President, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, provided updates on recent developments and initiatives at PolyU, and underscored the University's commitment to creating a comprehensive learning environment. Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), Prof. Ben Young, elaborated on the wide array of student support services available, encouraging students to utilise them for a more fulfilling university experience.

The engaging Q&A session addressed key concerns including the university's development in the medical school, artificial intelligence (AI) development, student integration, and academic-related matters raised by students. CMT members listened attentively and provided insightful responses, reaffirming their dedication to understanding and addressing student needs. The session promoted open dialogue, allowing for valuable insights into students' experiences and challenges, and reflecting PolyU's ongoing commitment to cultivating an inclusive university community through active student engagement.

PolyU Co-organises “WeTech for Good” with Tencent

On 15 March, Tencent hosted “WeTech for Good” at Chiang Chen Studio Theatre, co-organised by PolyU. During the event, Tencent announced the establishment of the Tencent WeTech Academy, marking a significant step as the city transitions towards a technology-driven economy and aligns with national strategic goals for innovation and development.

The Academy was officially launched by officiating guests, including Mr Paul Chan, the Financial Secretary; Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President; and Mr Dowson Tong, Tencent Senior Executive Vice-President and CEO of Tencent’s Cloud and Smart Industries Group. During the ceremony, Prof. Horace Mui, Interim Dean of Students, delivered an insightful introduction to PolyU, emphasising the diverse range of support and services available to students. Following this, Mr Paul Chan officiated at the ceremony and highlighted the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing productivity and modernising traditional industries.

Limitless Festival 2025 and Inclusive Activities for Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN)

This year’s Limitless Festival, the annual signature event for enhancing inclusion awareness on campus, commenced in mid-February. On 12 February, around 100 students, staff and guests joined the ceremony at the Wong Man and Tang Kit Wah Global Student Hub, to support the launch of this year’s month-long Festival. As in previous years, a series of activities were arranged with support from PolyU departments, non-governmental organisations, social enterprises and Limitless ambassadors, all with the aim of enhancing PolyU students' and colleagues' understanding of community members with disabilities and students with special educational needs (SEN). Activities included exhibition game booths, inclusive sports, workshops, a treasure hunt and a mental health first aid course, and attracted nearly 780 attendees to join hands in embracing diversity.

Apart from the Festival, which promotes inclusion awareness on campus, the SEN Caring Team has organised various inclusive activities giving SEN students a chance to mingle with their peers in enjoyable ways. On 7 January, 14 students with SEN and Limitless Ambassadors went on a memorable tour to Mai Po Nature Reserve, followed by a DIY Natural Lip Balm Workshop. During the trip, they not only explored nature and learned about the benefits of natural ingredients but also formed bonds with their peers. Additionally, 24 students with SEN and Limitless Ambassadors enjoyed a fun-filled BBQ night, where they shared delicious food and engaged in light-hearted conversations, filling the evening air with laughter and joy.

Dialogue with Vice President (Student and Global Affairs)

On 17 February and 21 March, Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), along with Prof. Horace Mui, Interim Dean of Students, engaged in fruitful discussions with PolyU students and Outstanding Student Awardees. The occasion served as an essential platform for students to voice their concerns and share their experiences, while also offering university management the opportunity to directly engage with students and address issues they raised.

During the gatherings, students provided insights and raised concerns on a range of topics, covering academic studies, hall administration, student societies and extra-curricular activities.

A Warm Welcome: Celebratory Activities for Non-Local Students

On 10 January, the Non-local Student Services Team (NLSST) hosted an Info Session for 175 incoming exchange students, providing essential information and tips to help them settle in. Miss Joyce Cheung, Section Head (Student Resources and Support), delivered an inspiring welcoming address, while I-peers (senior students) actively engaged with new students, offering thoughtful gifts and support.

Following this, NLSST organised a lively “Welcome Back Day” on 16 January, featuring welcome gifts, fun games, a candy corner and DIY coaster making. Over 310 students participated, enjoying the joyful atmosphere while learning more about the support services of PolyU, SAO and NLSST. Special thanks go to the warm welcome provided by Prof. Horace Mui, Interim Dean of Students, Miss Joyce Cheung, Section Head (Student Resources and Support), and I-peers!

The excitement continued the next day with a “Hong Kong Style BBQ”, where nearly 190 students savoured traditional dishes including Chinese roast pig and enjoyed an enchanting sunset. This vibrant event fostered connections among students from diverse backgrounds, creating an unforgettable experience.

Education and Student Development Salon on “Overview of Support Services for Non-Local Students at PolyU”

The 34th Education and Student Development Salon, “Overview of Support Services for Non-Local Students at PolyU”, was held on 3 March.

The Salon aimed to familiarise participants with the diverse one-stop services and support offered by the Non-Local Student Services Team (NLSST). The facilitators, Miss Joyce Cheung, Section Head of the SAO Student Resource and Support Section, Dr Andrew Chu, SAO Hall Manager, and Dr Apple Cheung, SAO Executive Officer, highlighted the invaluable support provided by NLSST, which helps foster integration and well-being among non-local students by offering services such as engagement programmes, accommodation support, counselling and career guidance. Two non-local student representatives, Angad Singh Grover and Du Haoxun, shared their experiences of studying at PolyU during the Salon.

Sports Festival 2025

The Sports Festival Funfair 2025 took place on 20 and 21 February at FJ Podium, celebrating the concepts of “sports for all”, well-being and community engagement. Participants had the opportunity to engage in various activities, including the challenging Ninja Obstacle Course and Reaction Light Challenge, which provided a stimulating environment for skill development.

Attendees also benefited from the WellFit App try-out and fitness consultations, which delivered valuable insights into personal fitness strategies. The event featured strengthening exercises and Nunchaku demonstrations, showcasing unique skills and promoting physical fitness.

The online self-help platform TourHeart+ contributed to the event by offering resources aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of students, thereby addressing some holistic aspects of health.

Interactive booths could be found throughout the venue, offering exciting prizes and fostering a sense of community among fitness enthusiasts of all levels. The participation and enthusiasm displayed by attendees was instrumental in making the event a significant celebration of health and community spirit. Further events are anticipated, building on the success of this year's Funfair.

International Cultural Night Series 2025: A Mosaic of Unity

Cultural Night Series 2025, hosted by the SAO non-local student associations, has energised our campus with four of five events completed. Held at the Wong Man and Tang Kit Wah Global Student Hub, these evenings fuse global traditions, games and cuisine into vibrant celebrations designed to unite PolyU’s diverse student community.

With over 600 attendees to-date, the Series underscores how student-led initiatives effectively drive cross-cultural integration. Don’t miss the finale: Indonesian Cultural Night on 28 March, promising a lively immersion into Indonesian heritage!

SAO continues to empower our non-local student associations as cornerstones of PolyU’s global engagement strategy. Stay tuned for 2026 collaborations – or join any of the associations to shape next year’s cultural dialogues!

ICAC Ambassador Programme 2024/2025

ICAC Information Day, held on 18-19 February 2025, was a resounding success. The event featured interactive exhibitions and exciting integrity games, allowing the 2024/25 ICAC Ambassadors, known this year as “Aletheia”, to engage meaningfully with students and staff. They effectively conveyed the mission of the Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) while fostering a culture of integrity.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about the structure and functions of the ICAC, reinforcing their commitment to integrity through enjoyable mini-games, while also receiving exclusive giveaway items. Through the Programme activities, “Aletheia” aims to inspire everyone to uphold honesty and integrity in their daily lives.

Looking ahead, “Aletheia” is dedicated to organising further engaging sessions to promote the values of probity and share the positive messages of the ICAC across campus.