Four CityUHK students awarded Innovation and Technology Scholarship
Four outstanding undergraduates from City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) were awarded the Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2026, in recognition of their innovative ideas and dedication to science and technology. Each awardee will receive HK$150,000 to undertake a series of elite-nurturing initiatives, including overseas and Chinese Mainland attachments, internships and mentorship programmes. They will also have the opportunity to engage in community outreach activities to translate their insights into practice and give back to society.
The awardees represent the disciplines of veterinary medicine, environmental engineering and energy science. Their cutting-edge research concepts vividly demonstrate the ambition and capability of CityUHK students to address pressing societal needs.
Lou Pak-yin, a Year 3 student in the Bachelor of Engineering in Environmental Science and Engineering programme, aspires to become an environmental engineer. He is dedicated to developing alternative solutions that integrate seamlessly into everyday life, reducing environmental impacts without requiring changes to daily habits.
His current research focuses on tyre particle pollution. He has been developing a prototype device that demonstrates the particle release process and plans to use his scholarship to acquire professional hardware and software to optimise this eco-friendly prototype.
He said, "I hope to extend my research into product design in the future, specifically by installing collectors on vehicles to reduce pollutant emissions. I also intend to make full use of the scholarship to participate in an overseas exchange programme to examine sustainable development systems abroad."
To address the current low recycling rate in Hong Kong, Leung Yuen-ying, a Year 3 student in the Bachelor of Engineering in Energy Science and Engineering programme, has conceptualised an innovative smart recycling facility. Her project explores how integrating a transparent design, a rinsing system, solar power and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to monitor recycling conditions can mitigate contamination at the source and improve overall recycling efficiency.
She plans to use her scholarship to participate in an overseas university exchange to study the sustainability concepts and circular economy models from different regions, with the aim of adapting and implementing these practices within Hong Kong's urban landscape. "My goal is to integrate engineering technology, digital innovation and sustainable policy to develop high-potential green tech solutions that support carbon neutrality targets,” she explained. “Ultimately, I intend to leverage my expertise in the commercial and engineering fields to actively drive the development of a circular economy in Hong Kong."
Molly Tsang Nan-ju is a Year 2 student in the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme, whose research focuses on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to optimise aquaculture efficiency. She plans to leverage AI based computer vision and sensor data to monitor fish growth in real time and automate feeding schedules, thereby reducing feed waste and lowering costs. She intends to use her scholarship to participate in the prestigious AQUAVET programme at Cornell University.
"The exceptional academic environment at CityUHK has deepened my aspirations in innovative technology, sustainability and community service,” says Molly. “I hope to apply my expertise to foster exchange and cooperation between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, driving the long-term development of the aquaculture industry. Looking ahead, I would like to collaborate with international organisations to help provide a safe, healthy and sufficient food supply for the world."
In the field of animal health and genomics, Javin Wong Chak-fung, also a Year 2 student in the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme, aims to develop a rapid, cost-effective genetic testing platform for clinical and on-site farming applications. The platform is designed to screen for hereditary diseases, improve livestock welfare, and minimise the use of antibiotics. To further broaden his expertise, he plans to utilise his scholarship to participate in internships and exchange programmes in both the Chinese Mainland and overseas, gaining worldwide experience in cutting-edge clinical applications of genetic testing.
"This scholarship will help broaden my international scientific horizons and deepen my understanding of the developments and strengths in animal genomics across different regions,” said Javin. “I look forward to participating in related research projects in the future to overcome technological barriers and make animal genetic testing more accessible, ultimately benefiting society."
The Innovation and Technology Scholarship, jointly established in 2011 by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Government of the HKSAR, the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited and The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, is designed to recognise and nurture outstanding local undergraduates. Each year, 25 students are selected for elite mentorship and development programmes that broaden their global outlook, strengthen their industry knowledge and foster a passion for innovation and technology, thereby contributing to Hong Kong’s scientific and technological development.
As an international university committed to excellence, CityUHK is at the forefront of interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research, actively nurturing future leaders in innovation and technology with global perspectives, an innovative mindset and a strong sense of social responsibility. The University also provides diverse experiential platforms that enable students to integrate cross-disciplinary knowledge and translate ideas into practical solutions to address pressing societal challenges. CityUHK will continue to collaborate closely with various sectors, contributing dynamic young scientific talent to Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology hub.