Media

The President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Professor Xiang Zhang, welcomes the initiatives announced in the 2026-27 Budget today (25 February) to foster the integrated development of education, technology and talent.

“The policy framework and resources outlined in the Budget will accelerate the University’s strategic goals,” said Professor Zhang. “HKU remains committed to collaborating with the government, industry, and research partners to pioneer scientific breakthroughs, ensuring Hong Kong retains its leadership in innovation and economic growth.”

The Budget’s focus on “AI+” and technological advancement aligns with HKU’s existing initiatives, including mandatory AI literacy training for undergraduates and further supporting the University’s vision of becoming an AI-enabled campus with applications integrated across all academic disciplines. HKU School of Computing and Data Science will further leverage its dual-site programme in Hong Kong and Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park to strengthen industry-academia partnerships and advance data-driven innovation.

Professor Zhang also welcomes the government’s increased support for aerospace and low-altitude economy (LAE) development. HKU is poised to contribute through its Research Institute for Civil Low-Altitude Aviation and Laboratory for Space Research (LSR), which are advancing the research in low-altitude economy and planetary science. The establishment of the Hong Kong Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics (HKIAA) in late 2025 will further enhance national astronomical research.

In addition, Professor Zhang supports the measures to accelerate technological and industrial innovation, including the development of Hetao Hong Kong Park. HKU Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine has been appointed as one of the operators of the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute (GBAICTI). The University will continue working with the government and key stakeholders to advance the Park’s development, foster cutting-edge research, and reinforce Hong Kong’s long-term competitiveness.

The Budget’s plan for the Northern Metropolis University Town, backed by a HK$10 billion loan scheme to support campus development, was also welcomed by Professor Zhang as a transformative step for higher education, enhancing Hong Kong’s academic and research excellence.

Finally, Professor Zhang commended the government’s commitment to aligning Hong Kong with the national 15th Five-Year Plan and formulating the city’s first local five-year development blueprint. This strategic integration will amplify Hong Kong’s contribution to national growth while solidifying its leadership in research and talent development.