CityUHK co-organises SCMUN 2026 - Empowering future global young AI leaders through innovation, science, and culture

City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), in partnership with See Change Education and the Hong Kong Innovative Education Association (HKIEA), co-organised the SCMUN – Model United Nations Conference and Global Conference Leadership Camp 2026 from 3 to 9 August 2026. This transformative event provided an immersive learning experience and brought together 170 young participants from 58 schools from across Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, the United Kingdom, and Mongolia.

As a co-organiser, CityUHK is delighted to host student delegates from across the globe to collaborate, exchange ideas, and hone essential skills,” said Professor Chan Chi Hou, Vice-President (Community Engagement) at CityUHK. “The University plays a pivotal role in enriching this experience by providing our vibrant campus, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert-led lectures. Our commitment to internationalisation and innovation ensures that every participant gains a global perspective, particularly in communication—a cornerstone of success in education, professional careers, and beyond the classroom.”

Some local secondary school students received scholarships sponsored by HKIEA to take part in the event, broadening their horizons and enhancing their leadership skills through cross-cultural exchanges and discussions on international issues. Thanks to the generosity of the organisers, 12 scholarships were awarded to exceptional local secondary school students through CityUHK Connect, ensuring inclusive and equitable access to this enriching educational opportunity.

Reflecting on the experience, Jett Lai Li-ting from Heung To Middle School noted that he met many friends and industry professionals, giving him valuable networking opportunities, and described the event as a unique chance to explore different fields. Gwyneth Chung Mi-fu from Kowloon True Light School described the conference as an eye-opening experience, allowing her to connect with delegates from different schools and learn more about the real-world issues facing society today.

“Technology is reshaping the world, with AI, data science, and advanced materials profoundly impacting humanity's future,” said Ms. Rita Pang Yat Sum, CityUHK Council Member and Founder of See Change Education. “By collaborating with CityUHK, I hope students will experience both innovative technology and international affairs, cultivating leaders who blend technological thinking with humanitarian values to solve global challenges.” She also added, “SCMUN sets out to help young people find their voices. Today, we're building the next generation of amplified thinkers at a pivotal time in our history, a time where creative, intentional use of AI for good will set the stage for human flourishing.” She further advised students to think, speak, and read more, and seize the opportunities to play with purpose.

The Global Conference Leadership Camp immersed participants in CityUHK’s young and international campus environment. Students attended inspiring masterclasses led by CityUHK scholars, including Professor Ho Chin-pang, Associate Head of the Department of Data Science, and Professor Vincent Ko Chi-chiu, Professor in the Department of Chemistry, exploring cutting-edge topics such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), smart materials, and sustainability.

Participants also engaged in exclusive campus tours and lab visits, exploring the JCC Anatomy Teaching Laboratory, the JCC Necropsy Suite, and the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Health (SKLMEH). This was complemented by special exhibitions, including Story of the Ocean Giants Exhibition: Cetacean and Sea Turtle” and “The Power of Play at the Indra and Harry Banga Gallery. To further experience university life, participants also stayed at the student residence in Ma On Shan. A unique highlight of this year's camp was an inspiring fireside chat on character and leadership featuring Mr. Leung Kwun Chung, FIFA World Cup Commentator and professional football player. Furthermore, See Change Education provided professional training in Model United Nations and debate skills. In addition, students participated in four workshops led by industry experts covering media, business, sports, and cybersecurity.

During the SCMUN Conference, students stepped into the shoes of diplomats, deliberating on pressing global issues in simulated United Nations committee meetings. These rigorous debates sharpened their leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, better preparing them for real-world global challenges.

CityUHK is dedicated to delivering innovative, interactive, and inspiring education to shape the next generation of global leaders. Recently ranked as the Most International University in the world by Times Higher Education, CityUHK continuously strives to empower young leaders with a global perspective, broadening their horizons and enabling them to pursue their aspirations with confidence.

Young people from various countries and cultural backgrounds gather at CityUHK this summer to exchange ideas, discuss solutions to global challenges, and experience university life.

Particpants at the "Power of Play" exhibition.

The event offers an array of activities. 

The event concludes with a closing ceremony.

(From left): Officiating guests include Mr Armstrong Lee, MH, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hong Kong Education City, who noted that the AI era calls for empowering students with core soft skills and leveraging digital education support; The Honourable Dennis Leung Tsz-wing, MH, Legislative Councillor, encouraged youth to develop their skills and problem-solving abilities; Ms Rita Pang Yat-sum, Founder of See Change Education, is program organiser, alongside with CityUHK, as co-organiser, represented by Professor Chan Chi-hou, Vice-President (Community Engagement) of CityUHK.