Programme
Time
Programme
08:30 - 09:00
Registration and Welcome
Opening Ceremony
09:15 - 10:15
Welcome speech
Prof. Priscilla Leung Mei-fun, Founding President, Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Speech by Guest of Honour
The Hon John LEE Ka-chiu, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China Officiating Guests
Prof. Priscilla Leung Mei-fun, Founding President, Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Speech by Guest of Honour
The Hon John LEE Ka-chiu, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China Officiating Guests
- The Hon John LEE Ka-chiu, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
- Mr Yan-xiong ZHENG, Director, Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Mr Jin-peng HUAI, Minister of Education of the People's Republic of China
- Mr Jian-chun CUI, Commissioner, Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- The Hon Andrew LEUNG Kwan–yuen, GBM, GBS, JP, President, Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Mr Tim LUI Tim-leung, GBS, JP, Chairman of the University Grants Committee
Session 1 - The Importance of Knowledge Globalization for Humanity
10:15 – 11:20
By fostering interconnectedness and interdependence across countries, globalization has become
an essential process in shaping our collective future. This session will explore the philosophies,
values, and economic, cultural, and political ideas behind globalization. The increasing integration
of economies through free trade and global supply chains, the exchange of cultural practices, and
political collaboration through international organizations highlight globalization's profound impact
on society. Universities play a central role in shaping these values through their research, curriculum
development, knowledge distribution, and advocacy efforts.
In this session, speakers will discuss how to sustain academic cooperation in a rapidly changing
world, emphasizing the importance of virtual collaboration and innovative knowledge
exchanges. Additionally, globalization’s critical influence on human social values is highlighted
as it is critical in promoting diversity, inclusion, and ethical responsibility. We will delve deeper
into these topics, offering valuable insights into the role of knowledge globalization in driving
human progress and how we can continue to foster academic collaboration and social change
in an interconnected world.
Session Chair
Prof. Nancy Y. IP, SBS, BBS, MH, JP, President, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Nancy Y. IP, SBS, BBS, MH, JP, President, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Jiang-feng DU, President, Zhejiang University (China)
- Prof. Pradeep K. KHOSLA, Chancellor, the University of California, San Diego (U.S.)
- Prof. Dame Nancy ROTHWELL, Former President & Vice-Chancellor, The University of Manchester (U.K.)
- Prof. Ahmed Ali ALRAEESI, Vice-Chancellor, United Arab Emirates University (UAE)
- Prof. Yujin YAGUCHI, Vice President & Director of Center for Global Education, The University of Tokyo (Japan)
11:20 – 11:30
Coffee Break
Session 2 - Data Science and a New International Order
11:30 - 12:30
Data science is transforming many aspects of our life, particularly on reshaping international
relations and global governance. This session will explore how data-driven processes such
as machine learning, analytics and networks are influencing foreign policy, diplomacy, and
security strategies worldwide. The rise of data-rich nations is shifting global power structures,
with multinational technology conglomerates shaping how we view and advance algorithmic
justice and governance. While data science offers new opportunities for international
collaboration on pressing global issues, it also raises significant ethical and privacy concerns
that demand global standards.
Speakers in this session will discuss the evolving role of data science in shaping the
future of global governance, highlighting the need for fair data practices to foster a fair
international order
Session Chair
Prof. Xiang ZHANG, President and Vice–Chancellor, The University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Xiang ZHANG, President and Vice–Chancellor, The University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Zheng YOU, President, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China)
- Prof. Brad MACKAY, Deputy Principal & Vice Principal, University of St. Andrews (U.K.)
- Prof. Lily KONG, President, Singapore Management University (Singapore)
- Dr. Peter Q. BLAIR, Associate Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education (U.S.)
13:00 – 14:30
Luncheon (By invitation only)
Session 3 - Ethics and Value Building of AI Technology in Society
14:30 - 15:35
Artificial intelligence has significantly transformed our society. As AI systems become more
integrated into daily life, concerns are rising about issues such as algorithmic bias, data
privacy, and the lack of accountability and transparency. Given the societal impact of these
technologies, it is crucial to establish ethical frameworks for AI to ensure its development aligns
with societal values like equity and inclusivity. Additionally, AI’s role in decision-making, from
healthcare to criminal justice, underscores the importance of building AI systems that reflect
ethical standards and avoid perpetuating harmful biases.
This session will explore the ethics and value-building surrounding AI technology in society.
Speakers will discuss the critical need for transparent AI governance, responsible innovation,
and collaborative efforts between policymakers, technologists, and civil society to ensure AI’s
development benefits humanity while upholding ethical principles. Through these discussions,
we will gain valuable insights into shaping the future of AI to serve the common good
responsibly and equitably.
Session Chair
Prof. Jin-guang TENG, President, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Jin-guang TENG, President, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Zhe-min TAN, President, Nanjing University (China)
- Prof. Shu-cai LI, President, Shandong University (China)
- Prof. Sir Anton MUSCATELLI, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of Glasgow (UK)
- Prof. Ilaria VALENTE, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Politechnico di Milano (Italy)
- Prof. Jon GARIBALDI, Provost and Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University of Nottingham Ningbo China (China)
15:35 - 15:50
Coffee Break
Session 4 - Art Technology & Youth Psychology
15:50 - 16:55
The intersection of art, technology, and psychology has significantly contributed to the
cognitive and emotional development as well as holistic wellbeing of youth today. This session
will explore how technological advancements in digital and interactive art are shaping artistic
expression and youth psychology, focusing on the ways these new forms of art influence
identity formation and self-expression. Speakers will examine how digital platforms like social
media and emerging technologies such as virtual reality provide both creative opportunities
and challenges for young people, highlighting case studies of their impact on cognitive and
emotional growth.
The session will also introduce the use of art technology in therapeutic settings, emphasizing its
role in mental health interventions and programming. These tools are essential for supporting
emotional well-being through creative expression. Additionally, speakers will address ethical
considerations, such as the risks of digital addiction and overexposure such as doom-scrolling,
and strategies to promote balanced engagement with technology. Speakers will provide
valuable insights into how the integration of art and technology can shape the psychological
development of youth, offering guidance on fostering healthy creative engagement in a rapidly
evolving digital world.
Session Chair
Prof. Alexander WAI Ping-kong, President and Vice–Chancellor, Hong Kong Baptist University (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Alexander WAI Ping-kong, President and Vice–Chancellor, Hong Kong Baptist University (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Jie-cai HAN, President, Harbin Institute of Technology (China)
- Prof. Michele ACUTO, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Global Engagement, University of Bristol (U.K.)
- Prof. Ji-hong YU, President, Beijing Normal University (China)
- Prof. Thomas BRADBURY, Distinguished Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (U.S.)
18:45 - 22:00
Dinner (By invitation only)
Time
Programme
08:45 - 09:00
Registration and Welcome
Session 5 - University Governance and Innovation
09:15 - 10:50
University governance plays a critical role in promoting knowledge exchanges in a globalized
world. This session will explore the increasing significance of governance in higher education,
focusing on how universities adapt to globalization while balancing local autonomy and
global collaboration. With innovative governance models such as international partnerships,
interdisciplinary research, and technology, global collaboration can be fostered and
sustainably maintained. These models are essential for addressing modern day challenges
that we face as a society together. Additionally, the role of visionary leadership in driving
innovation within academic governance will be discussed, along with strategies to foster a
sense of global academic citizenship and inclusivity among university campuses.
In this session, speakers will provide valuable insights into how effective governance can
shape the future of higher education, fostering global engagement and collaboration within
the academic community.
Session Chair
Prof. Freddy BOEY Yin-chiang, President and University Distinguished Professor, City University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Freddy BOEY Yin-chiang, President and University Distinguished Professor, City University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Dame Madeleine ATKINS, President, Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge University (U.K.)
- Prof. Xin-kai ZHU, Executive Vice-President, Renmin University of China (China)
- Prof. G. Q. Max LU, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Surrey (U.K.)
- Prof. Ruksana OSMAN, Senior Deputy Vice–Chancellor: Academic, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (South Africa)
- Prof. Franck RICHECOEUR, Director of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees, CentraleSupelec Paris–Saclay University (France)
- Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj KUMAR, Vice Chancellor, O.P. Jindal Global University (India)
- Prof. Alojzy Z. NOWAK, Rector, University of Warsaw (Poland)
- Dr. Dieter DE BRUYN, Senior Policy Advisor at Rector’s Office, Ghent University (Belgium)
10:50 - 11:05
Coffee Break
Session 6 - Artificial Intelligence in Meeting Biomedical and Societal Challenges
11:05 - 12:10
Artificial intelligence is increasingly playing a crucial role in addressing biomedical and
societal challenges, from accelerating research to developing technologies in advancing areas
such as personalized medicine, innovative biotherapies, mental health intervention, climate
change modelling, risk assessment, and education and training. Additionally, emerging
markets, cross-sector partnerships, interdisciplinary research, and international partnerships
continue to drive innovation. However, regulatory complexities, high research costs, and
ethical concerns represent obstacles and issues such as intellectual property disputes, data
privacy and security, and a shortage of specialized talent further complicate the landscape.
In this session, speakers will explore these pivotal issues, providing insights into the evolving
role of AI in different fields and their combined future impact on global health and society.
Session Chair
Prof. Rocky S. TUAN, Vice–Chancellor & President, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. Rocky S. TUAN, Vice–Chancellor & President, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Prof. Bin YANG, Vice-President, Tsinghua University (China)
- Prof. Dawn FRESHWATER, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Auckland (New Zealand)
- Prof. San LING, Deputy President and Provost, Nanyang Technological University (Singapore)
- Dr. Jun WANG, Assistant Provost, University of California, Riverside (U.S.)
- Prof. Tony F. CHAN, Immediate Past President, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Saudi Arabia)
12:15 - 13:45
Luncheon (By invitation only)
Cyberport Presentation
14:00 - 14:05
Speaker
Dr. Crystal FOK, Director of AI Applications, Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
Dr. Crystal FOK, Director of AI Applications, Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
Dr. Crystal FOK
Session 7 – AI Development and its Law and Ethics
14:05 - 15:10
The intersection of law and artificial intelligence (AI) is constructing a new way of how we
practice law and how the capacity of law and order can be furthered with the addition of AI
technologies. These emerging tools are revolutionizing legal systems and frameworks and
influencing all aspects from automating criminal justice decision-making processes to aiding
due diligence and compliance in the commercial legal space. However, as AI starts to carry
increasing weight in powers of decision, it raises major concerns about its transparency, lack of
accountability and overall, the general consumption and involvement of these technologies in
a field that values confidentiality and fairness. Ensuring that AI’s development and presence in
upholding and furthering justice and order is crucial for maintaining trust in the justice systems.
This session will explore the role of AI in law and order and its implications for the quality and
outlook of legal systems in the future. Our speakers will discuss the importance of building
robust and ethical AI guiding frameworks in law that promote transparency, fairness, and
security.
Session Chair
Prof. S. Joe Qin, President of Lingnan University (Hong Kong, China) Session Co-Chair
Prof. Gui-guo WANG, Chairman of the Hong Kong WTO Research Institute (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
Prof. S. Joe Qin, President of Lingnan University (Hong Kong, China) Session Co-Chair
Prof. Gui-guo WANG, Chairman of the Hong Kong WTO Research Institute (Hong Kong, China) Speakers
- Dr. David LASSNER, President, University of Hawaii at Mānoa (U.S.)
- Prof. Bipin ADHIKARI, Professor of Law, Kathmandu University School of Law (Nepal)
- Prof. Dr. Farhana Helal MEHTAB, Professor of Law & Dean, School of Arts & Social Sciences, Southeast University (Bangladesh)
- Datuk Supperamaniam MANICKAM, Former Ambassador/ Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the World Trade Organisation (Malaysia)
- Prof. Nohyoung PARK, Former Dean of Korea University Law School (South Korea)
Session 8 – Demographic Change & Education in Future
15:10 - 16:10
Demographic changes are reshaping the future of education, presenting both challenges and
opportunities for adapting modes of learning to a rapidly evolving global population. Falling
birth rate, aging society, urbanization, emerging patterns of migration have all in various ways
influenced the composition of student populations and their consequent education needs. In
a post-COVID era, educational institutes continue to encounter unique challenges of new
learning systems, declining enrollment, shifting government funding, and so on. Specifically,
enrollment cliff, a term used to describe the expected decline in the number of traditional-age
college students, is an obstacle faced by many universities. Nevertheless, these challenges
pave the way for new opportunities - innovative approaches that can address how education
is provided and received in diverse learning environments that could lead to lifelong learning
opportunities. At the same time, technological advancements are offering new ways to
personalize education and make it more accessible to different demographic groups.
This session will explore how demographic changes are impacting the future of education and
the strategies needed to adapt. Our speakers will discuss how educational institutions can
adapt to meet the demands of a shifting population, focusing on building diverse and equitable
learning environments for the future generation.
Session Chair
Prof. John LEE Chi-Kin, President, The Education University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Session Co–Chair
Dr. Peter Q. BLAIR, Associate Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education (U.S) Speakers
Prof. John LEE Chi-Kin, President, The Education University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) Session Co–Chair
Dr. Peter Q. BLAIR, Associate Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education (U.S) Speakers
- Dr. Haji Abdul Hanif bin Dato Paduka Haji MAHADI, Assistant Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research, Innovation and Sustainability), University Brunei Darussalam (Brunei)
- Prof. Bert J. TUGA, President, Philippine Normal University (Philippine)
- Prof. Aliya AKTYMBAYEVA, Deputy Vice-Rector for Scientific and Innovation Activities for Sustainable Development, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (Kazakhstan)
- Dr. Kashif Imran ZADI, Acting Director and Associate Professor, School of Law & Policy, University of Management and Technology, Lahore (Pakistan)
16:10 - 16:20
Coffe Break
16:20 - 16:25
Micro movie “Legislator Walking into 2036"
Session 9 – Applied Science and New Age Development
16:25 - 17:30
Artificial technology has emerged as a powerful tool that both drives innovation and disruption
across many sectors and aspects of our society. While there is debate over whether technology
is truly an applied science, there is no denying AI's rapid rise and its profound impact on how
we pursue scientific inquiries. New age challenges such as global warming, space exploration,
preventative medicine, alternative energy sources and exploratory robotics can all potentially
be addressed with the support of AI. As exciting as it sounds to envision its full potential, AI has
also raised concerns about its disconnect and lack of rootedness in the more pressing issues
underserved but most impacted communities face.
This session will focus on how technology combined with applied science will impact or
facilitate issues of new age development in our life. It will also examine whether it is time to
discuss the creation of a global multi-disciplinary framework where science, technology,
society, environment, policies and regulations evolve together, each informing and progressing
on the other’s needs. Our speakers will discuss how universities can help facilitate such a
comprehensive framework to support this integrated approach.
Session Chair
Prof. Paul LAM Kwan-sing, President, Hong Kong Metropolitan University (Hong Kong, China) Session Co–Chair
Prof. Priscilla LEUNG Mei–fun, GBS JP, Education Panel Chairman, Legislative Council Speakers
Prof. Paul LAM Kwan-sing, President, Hong Kong Metropolitan University (Hong Kong, China) Session Co–Chair
Prof. Priscilla LEUNG Mei–fun, GBS JP, Education Panel Chairman, Legislative Council Speakers
- Prof. Xu-hong QIAN, President, East China Normal University (China)
- Dr. Cary ANDERSON, Executive Vice-Chancellor, Wenzhou–Kean University (China)
- Dr. Rajesh SHARMA, Associate Professor, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (Australia)
- Hyang I. MIHARDJA, Executive Director, EYR Center for Legal Studies & Sr. Advisor of Indonesia Mediation Center (Indonesia)
- Prof. Jun HU, President, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (China)
Closing Remarks
17:40 - 17:55
Dr. Christine CHOI Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China
Dinner (By invitation only)