PolyU celebrates its 85-year history, while looking to Hong Kong’s future and its transition to an international I&T hub

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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is coming to the climax of a year of celebrations to mark its 85th anniversary, with a slew of ambitious plans that aim to capitalise upon its research and teaching capabilities and consolidate its position as a world-class educational institution. The university has undergone significant change over the past eight decades, evolving as Hong Kong’s economy has evolved, beginning life as a government trade school and obtaining official university status in 1994.

PolyU’s president, Professor Jin-Guang Teng, who first joined the institution as a lecturer a month before it achieved university status, says its evolution from a teaching institution into a leading research-based university demonstrates its dedication to addressing societal needs – a theme that underpins its new plans.

“The institution was set up to support industry in Hong Kong, and therefore the economic development of the city,” says Teng. “It has a very strong tradition of close partnership with the community and this is a special feature of the university. We have a strong emphasis on directly benefiting society and this model will still be the spirit of the university that will lead us in the future.”

In October, The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 placed PolyU 79th – up 12 places from the previous year and citing teaching and research among its key performance indicators – an achievement the university sees as an endorsement of its performance.

“The rankings are a reflection of our progress and a recognition of our efforts,” says Teng. “They tell us we are good, and they reflect on our strengths and identify areas for further improvement. Of course, they are important in attracting students and staff – it’s a virtuous cycle that we want to continue.”