From Skepticism to Applause: Building Rapport with Local Fish Farmers
Prof. Sophie ST-HILAIRE, Professor in the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, has worked in many roles throughout her career, from practising veterinarian and government officer to researcher and academic. Yet when asked which role she enjoys most, her answer is simple: being a researcher. Research allows Sophie to satisfy her natural curiosity, ask meaningful questions, and develop solutions to real-world challenges.
Since 2018, she and her team have led a project funded by Hong Kong's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) to provide fish health and disease management services to local fish farmers, with the goal of increasing locally cultured fish production double by 2028 and tenfold by 2038.
Building on years of field experience and data collection, the team is now developing an AI-powered platform that will help farmers source fish, monitor fish health, diagnose diseases, and access expert advice through a single integrated system.
The work has not been without challenges. Gaining the trust of farmers has taken years but currently the veterinary service has close to 100 clients and conducts over 200 site visits a year. They work with farmers on improving water quality, improving efficiencies in growth, and ensuring good fish health through disease prevention and control. A program that started as a 2 year pilot is now in its 8th year of operation. Recently, during a workshop, local farmers applauded when Sophie's name was mentioned. Although she did not understand the Cantonese being spoken, she immediately understood the message behind the applause. It was a sign of trust and appreciation earned over years of dedicated service.
Their journey from scepticism to acceptance is a powerful reminder that impactful research is built not only on scientific excellence, but also on trust, partnership, and sustained community engagement.
Sophie's passion for aquaculture began long before her academic career. As a student, she volunteered with a local fish farmer and developed a deep appreciation for the industry. She believes there is a growing need for fish veterinarians and aquaculture professionals, particularly as aquaculture continues to be the world's fastest-growing food production sector.
Looking ahead, her team is exploring innovative technologies for aquaculture, including electrolysis applications for water disinfection in shrimp farming and robotic aeration systems for remediation of aquaculture pond and marine sediments.
From improving fish health to harnessing AI for aquaculture, Prof. Sophie ST-HILAIRE's work shows how research can create tangible benefits for both industry and community, one fish farm at a time.
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