Past Events
"International Public Policy Association (IPPA) International Summer School on Public Policy (Hong Kong Edition 2026)"
Jointly organised by the International Public Policy Association, HSUHK School of Transdisciplinary Studies, HSUHK Graduate School and HSUHK Centre for Public Policy Research on 22 - 26 June 2026
The inaugural Hong Kong edition of the International Public Policy Association (IPPA) International Summer School on Public Policy officially commenced today at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK). This highly selective program received 140 applications globally, accepting 92 elite participants. The on-site cohort features 43 emerging scholars who ultimately traveled to Hong Kong reflect remarkable international diversity. Representing 42 world-renowned institutions across 18 countries and 16 nationalities, the cohort spans five continents: Asia (67.4%), Europe (18.6%), North America (7%), South America (4.7%), and Africa (2.3%). Their home institutions include leading global universities such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), University of Hong Kong (HKU), University College London (UCL), Humboldt University of Berlin, Jagiellonian University, Beihang University and University of Warsaw —underscoring the program’s broad international reach and academic distinction.
In his opening remarks, Professor Philippe Zittoun, General Secretary of the IPPA, emphasized the Summer School’s mission to propel the internationalization of public policy research. “This Summer School marked our inaugural launch in Hong Kong and serves as a crucial five-day intensive program designed for PhD students and early-career researchers to build international networks, engage with globally renowned scholars, and receive rigorous feedback to elevate their research papers,” Professor Zittoun stated. ‘It is our great honor to invite Professor Aza Singh Bali from the University of Melbourne, Professor Laura Chaqués Bonafont from the University of Barcelona and IBEI, Professor Mok Ka Ho, and Dr Eva Hung to deliver lectures at the Summer School.’
Welcoming delegates to the campus, Professor Joshua Mok Ka-ho, Provost and Vice-President (Academic and Research) and Dean of the Graduate School at HSUHK, highlighted the university’s strong initiative in partnering with the IPPA to bring this prestigious event to Hong Kong for the first time. Professor Mok underscored HSUHK’s unique educational model, which blends liberal arts and professional education to foster whole-person development.
“At HSUHK, we strongly believe in research with impact, and impact with care,” Professor Mok remarked. “We look forward to co-creating this platform with the IPPA to enable scholars and future academic leaders to collaborate on meaningful, evidence-based, and ethically grounded solutions for global human society. In a divided world, our core goals remain anchored in two C’s: Connectivity and Collaboration.” Professor Mok also highlighted Hong Kong’s strategic momentum as an international higher education hub, noting government talent initiatives such as the Top Talent Pass Scheme and investments in global student engagement.
Dr Hung Po-wah, representing HSUHK’s Center for Public Policy Research (CPPR), introduced the Center’s role as a cross-disciplinary platform driving impactful local and regional policy studies, such as youth micro-entrepreneurship and public governance challenges. He invited the international cohort to leverage the CPPR network for future academic exchanges and collaborative research projects.
The 5-day high-intensity program features morning lectures led by internationally renowned scholars and afternoon paper presentation workshops, providing a deeply immersive and holistic learning experience.
"A Multifaceted Analysis of Strengthening Stage-specific Support System for Youth Micro-entrepreneurship in Hong Kong" Press Conference & Public Seminar on 19 May 2026
On 19 May 2026, the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK held a press conference and a public seminar on the project “A Multifaceted Analysis of Strengthening Stage-specific Support System for Youth Micro-entrepreneurship in Hong Kong”.
This government‑funded project (Project No.: 2024.B12.009.24D) examined the stage‑specific needs, challenges, and support systems for youth micro‑entrepreneurs in Hong Kong. Using large‑scale survey data and in‑depth qualitative interviews, the study provided evidence‑based recommendations to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem across different business phases – from ideation to growth. The press conference was delivered by Principal Investigator Dr Victor C.M. Chan (Fellow, CPPR), who presented the major policy implications and responded to media questions.
Following the press conference, a public seminar was held to allow for deeper discussion of the research methodology, survey findings, and practical recommendations. The seminar speakers included Dr Victor C.M. Chan, Dr Eva Hung, and Dr Thomas W.Y. Man (Chief Education Officer, Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong). Mr Ernest Ng (Unit-in-charge, Youth Research Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups) served as the discussant. The event attracted lively engagement among participants from academia, policy bodies, and youth service organisations.
"Seminar on the Meaning and Application of Psychological Resilience in Global Public Governance" Seminar on 25 February 2026
On 25 February 2026, the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK invited Professor WANG Chun-yuan from the Department of Police Administration at Central Policy University, to deliver a seminar on the Meaning and Application of Psychological Resilience in Global Public Governance.
In this seminar, Professor WANG explored the theoretical foundations and practical applications of psychological resilience within the context of global public governance. He traced the evolution of resilience theory from early studies in stress and developmental psychology to contemporary life-course and ecological perspectives, emphasising resilience as a dynamic process of positive adaptation to adversity.
The seminar highlighted the integration of individual-level psychological resilience with system-level governance resilience, underscoring their interactive relationship in disaster management and public administration. Two empirical cases were examined: (1) police job burnout and (2) community resilience to disaster-related rumors. These cases illustrated how psychological resilience can mitigate stress, enhance adaptive capacity, and strengthen governance effectiveness. In his research, the findings suggest that cultivating psychological resilience is crucial for improving public sector performance and advancing effective crisis governance.
"Evolution of Labor Policy in Hong Kong: a Variety of Capitalism Perspective" Research Seminar on 20 November 2025
On 20 November 2025, the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK invited Dr Chris LI and Prof Kim-ming LEE for a talk on the “Evolution of Labor Market Policy in Hong Kong: a Variety of Capitalism Perspective.”
Dr Li and Prof Lee examined the evolution of Hong Kong’s labor market through a revised Varieties of Capitalism (VoC) framework. They argued that Hong Kong’s historical legacy as a classic Liberal Market Economy, deeply shaped by colonial-era “positive non-interventionism,” has created structural, long-term challenges. This left the city with a weak social safety net and minimal institutional protections for workers. The speakers traced how these historical vulnerabilities persisted as the economy transitioned through distinct phases, from the contested neoliberalism to a period of strategic re-orientation aligning with China mainland’s national development goals.
The talk highlighted that recent shifts in policies have created a “state-led hybridization” phase. In this current era, labor policy is used as a strategic tool to import high-skilled talent for initiatives like the Greater Bay Area, while largely overlooking the needs of the local low-skilled workforce. Their research concludes that these policies are creating a dualized labor market, deepening inequalities while integrating Hong Kong into China mainland’s strategic ambitions.
"Public Administration and You: Insights from The Ombudsman" Seminar on 19 November 2025
The “Public Administration and You: Insights from The Ombudsman”, jointly hosted by the Centre for Public Policy Research and the Office of the Ombudsman, was held on 19 November 2025. The Office of the Ombudsman, as Hong Kong’s community watchdog, was dedicated to promoting fairness and quality in public administration across government departments and major public organisations. Through independent, objective, and impartial investigations, the Office addressed grievances arising from maladministration and drives improvements in the quality and standards of public service.
Ms Mok, Senior Investigation Officer, and Ms Fung, Investigation Officer, served as speakers for the seminar. They outlined the Office’s three core strategies and shared frontline experiences and case examples. The seminar also featured an interactive session, enabling participants to gain deeper insights into the Office’s work and culture, as well as career opportunities within the organisation.
"Challenges and Opportunities in Public Governance Seminar"
Jointly organised by the Department of Social Science, the Centre for Public Policy Research, and the Graduate School of HSUHK on 18–19 November 2025
The “Challenges and Opportunities in Public Governance Seminar”, jointly hosted by the Department of Social Science, the Centre for Public Policy Research, and the Graduate School of HSUHK on 18–19 November 2025, concluded successfully after two days of vibrant intellectual exchange. Bringing together over twenty distinguished scholars from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, the event provided a dynamic platform to examine pressing issues—from digital transformation and aging populations to post‑pandemic recovery—and to explore pathways toward more resilient and innovative governance.
The participant list featured renowned institutions such as Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, alongside leading universities from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, including The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong, University of Macau, and National Taiwan University. The robust participation of Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, South China Agricultural University, Southern Medical University, and Guangzhou University underscored the vital role of Greater Bay Area (GBA) collaboration in addressing shared challenges.
The seminar addressed the most critical issues of our time. Professor Yu Xunda from Zhejiang University opened with a profound analysis of the Chinese governance model. Professor Mok Ka Ho, Joshua, Vice-President (Academic and Research) of HSUHK, offered a comparative perspective on tackling societal aging in East Asia. Subsequent sessions, led by Professor He Jingwei from HKUST and Professor Yeh Kuang-shih from Chung Hua University, explored lessons from past health crises and the mechanics of successful public-private partnerships.
A highlight of the second day was the keynote by Professor Zhu Xufeng, Dean of the School of Public Policy and Management at Tsinghua University, who challenged the audience to envision a new paradigm for public administration in the age of artificial intelligence.
A dedicated roundtable on “Greater Bay Area Development and its Governance Needs,” chaired by Professor Mok, generated significant insight. The three participants shared insightful viewpoints. Professor Cheung Bing-leung from EdUHK aruged that the Greater Bay Area should reinforce strategic and operational policy coordination. Professor Ng Tak-wing from University of Macau, discussed challenges emerged in the Heiqin district, jointly developed by Zhuhai and Macau, and stressed that removing barriers to talent mobility is essential for strengthening soft connectivity within the Greater Bay Area. Dr. Wu Junfei, leader of the Bauhinia Party, offered perspectives on Greater Bay Area development from the standpoint of the central government’s strategic objectives.
In the closing remarks, Professor Mok highlighted the seminar’s significance. “This gathering was more than an academic conference; it was a testament to the power of collective wisdom. By fostering dialogue between Hong Kong’s international outlook and the dynamic spirit of the Greater Bay Area, HSUHK is committed to contributing actionable solutions for the future of regional governance.”
The seminar has laid a solid foundation for future inter-institutional research and talent development initiatives, reinforcing the position of HSUHK as a proactive hub where governance theory meets practice.
"Shifting Political Trust and Citizenship in Hong Kong" Research Seminar on 14 April 2025
This seminar brought together new survey evidence to examine how political trust and citizenship in Hong Kong have shifted under political change. Drawing on territory-wide surveys from 2020 and 2024, Dr Chi-kit Chan and Dr Gary Tang showed that trust in both the HKSAR and central governments has modestly increased, closely linked to external efficacy and dutiful citizenship norms, even as collective efficacy and pan-democratic identification declined. The presentations highlighted that changing expectations of “good citizenship” are reshaping state–society relations and the perceived possibilities for civic participation in Hong Kong.
"The 11th Seminar on Hong Kong Culture and Society" on 2 November 2024
The Seminar for Hong Kong Culture and Society is a biannual event that aims to promote Hong Kong studies and bridge the gap between academia and society. This year, the Centre for Public Policy Research was honored to serve as a supporting unit for this meaningful event.
On 2 November 2024, the seminar was successfully held at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. It featured 5 panels with 15 presentations covering a variety of topics, including journalism, Hong Kong cinema, and Hong Kong intellectual history. We want to express our deepest gratitude to all the speakers, moderators, and participants for their excellent contributions and insightful questions.
"Seoul Future Heritage: Collective Memories as Civil Heritage" Seminar on 14 October 2024
How could memories of the common people be preserved and become the heritage of our future generations? This is the crux of the Seoul Future Heritage project led by Dr MIN Hyunsuk, a senior urban planner at the Seoul Institute.
In this seminar, Dr Min shared the vision of future heritage to preserve cultural artifacts, cultural acts and stories, and the physical background in which these artifacts and stories are formed. In particular, he highlighted the role played by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in supporting this bottom-up initiative in defining the memories of the Seoulites, and the economic value it has brought to the city.
The seminar has attracted more than 40 attendees and they were intrigued by the policy support of the project. There were also some fruitful exchanges and discussion about the deliberation process of what counted as “common memories”
"專題講座 -- 香港特區公務員的變與不變 " (2024年4月24日)
Professor Patrick Nip, the former Secretary for Civil Service, delivered a presentation entitled “The Change and Unchange of Civil Servants of HKSAR” (香港特區公務員的變與不變).
He reviewed how Hong Kong’s civil servants have dealt with various challenges arising from shifting public demands and the changing dynamics between Mainland China and HKSAR. The audience displayed great enthusiasm, seeking Professor Nip’s perspectives and exchanging opinions about Hong Kong civil service.
"VTubing Series - Defining Self in Meta World: VTuber and Its Creative Industry in Asia"
Jointly Organised by the HSUHK Centre for Public Policy Research, Department of Art and Design, and Department of Social Science
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK along with various units, including Department of Art and Design, and Department of Social Science, co-organised the “VTubing Series – Defining Self in Meta World.” This included lectures and a workshop.
Notable sessions were “Digital Idols: The Emergence of VTuber in Asia”, “VTubing 101: Crafting a Career in the Virtual World”, and a workshop “Becoming a VTuber”.
"Symposium - Transforming East Asian Welfare States Post-COVID-19"
Jointly Organised by the HSUHK Centre for Public Policy Research, Lingnan University and National Taiwan University (NTU) on 15-16 March 2024
In collaboration with Lingnan University and National Taiwan University (NTU), The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK co-organized a symposium titled “The Transformation of East Asian Welfare States in the Post COVID 19 Era: Challenges, Opportunities and Futures.” The event took place at NTU in Taipei and brought together speakers and participants from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Over the course of two days, the symposium delved into various issues related to East Asian welfare states.
Professor Ka-Ho Mok from Lingnan University delivered a keynote speech at the symposium, exploring the topic of “Managing the rise of older adults in Hong Kong: Towards a community-based integrated care and health approach in the post-COVID-19 crisis era.” Professor Mok’s presentation examined the quest for a new social governance model to support the growing elderly population in Hong Kong.
Members of our CPPR presented papers focusing on different subjects during the symposium. Dr Chi-Kit Chan shared insights into media narratives surrounding the post-COVID Chinese economy, while Dr. Rami Chan discussed the motivations behind emigration in the post-COVID period. Dr Ying-Ho Kwong compared the utilisation of contact tracing technology in several Asian countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Dr Gary Tang and Dr Eva Hung presented a paper addressing the impact of people’s perception of work precarity on their neoliberal orientation.
Furthermore, the symposium marked the launch of the Inter-university Consortium for Social Change, Wellbeing, and Social Policy Studies, jointly established by HSUHK, Lingnan University, and NTU. The Consortium aims to promote regional and international comparative research on social development and social policy in East Asia. It offers an open platform for academics and researchers to engage in research, symposia, conferences, student and staff exchanges, and collaborative research projects. Core partners of the Consortium include Sun Yat Sen University, University of New South Wales, and National Chung Cheng University. The Consortium welcomes participation from other institutions in East Asia and plans to host the next symposium in Hong Kong.
"Public Support for Social Inclusion Policies" Seminar on 13 November 2023
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK hosted a seminar titled “Public Support for Social Inclusion Policies.”
Dr. Siu-yau Lee from Hong Kong Baptist University introduced the Support for Social Inclusion Score (SFSIS), a survey tool designed to measure public attitudes toward social policies affecting marginalized groups such as the elderly, new immigrants, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities. Utilizing data from a representative telephone survey in Hong Kong (N=1,010), Dr. Lee explored how social inclusion attitudes correlate with demographic and psychological variables.
"Mosaic Cultural Talk - SDGs as Global Language"
Jointly organised by the HSUHK Centre for Public Policy and Lee Yick Hoi Lun Mosaic College on 27 October 2023
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK co-organised a talk with Lee Yick Hoi Lun Mosaic College.
Mr Ivan Siu-lun Chu, a co-founder of the Hong Kong Sustainable Development Research Institute, shared his valuable insights on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Attendees were inspired by his comprehensive understanding and expertise in the global language of sustainability.
"Intensive course – Introduction to Social Data Analytics for Public Affairs with R" on 2 September to 28 October 2023
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK hosted an intensive 8-week course titled ‘Introduction to Social Data Analytics for Public Affairs with R.
R has become an essential tool in data analysis. This course explored various R applications commonly used in social science research, with practical examples and exercises. It aimed to equip students with skills essential for computational analysis and visualization of diverse datasets including online public opinion, media content, election outcomes, and cross-national surveys. Fifteen students from diverse backgrounds participated, including HSU students and staff, NGO practitioners, and journalists. We look forward to organizing more courses that contribute various tools and knowledge related to public policy research to society.
"Seminar on Digital Education in the AI Era: The Future of Innovative Teaching?" Jointly organised by the HSUHK Centre for Public Policy Research, the Department of Politics and International Relations of Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG), and the education technology company Preface on 25 May 2023
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK, in collaboration with the Department of Politics and International Relations of Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG), and the education technology company Preface, held a seminar titled “Digital Education in the AI Era: The Future of Innovative Teaching?”
This seminar delved into the role of AI in education and its implications for digital literacy. As AI technologies like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into educational settings, understanding how to harness these advancements for educational innovation and adapt to evolving social and youth development needs becomes paramount.
The seminar featured insights from speakers across academia, youth organisations, professional education, and media. They discussed research findings, personal experiences, and strategies on AI and digital literacy, exploring AI’s potential to foster innovative teaching methods and the collective responsibility in promoting digital literacy. Speakers included Dr Ka-wai Ip from HKBU, Ms. Emily Tsang from South China Morning Post, Mr. Tommie Lo, CEO of Preface, and Mr. Ying-kit Chan from the HKFYG, each offering unique perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education.
"Achieving Trustworthy AI: Trustworthiness, Socio-technological Assemblage, and the AI Act" Seminar on 29 March 2023
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK hosted a seminar titled “Achieving Trustworthy AI: Trustworthiness, Socio-Technical Assemblage, and the AI Act.”
Dr. Pak-Hang Wong, a Berlin-based philosopher and ethicist in the fashion and e-commerce industry, explored the ethical, social, and governance dimensions of AI technologies. He discussed the challenges of trustworthy AI and the implications of the European AI Act’s regulatory requirements.
"The 10th Seminar on Hong Kong Culture and Society" on 5 November 2022
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK was one of the supporting units for the 10th Seminar on Hong Kong Culture and Society, held on November 5, 2022, at HSUHK.
The seminar consisted of five panels with 13 presentations covering topics such as popular culture, rural areas, intellectual history, precarious society, and digital development. More than 150 people attended the seminar.
"Campus, Learning, and Development: Seminar on Hong Kong's Youth Wellbeing" Jointly Organised by the HSUHK Centre for Public Policy Research and Save the Children Hong Kong on 26 October 2021
The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) of HSUHK and Save the Children Hong Kong jointly organised the seminar ‘Campus, Learning, and Development: Seminar on Hong Kong’s Youth Wellbeing’ on 26 October 2021, and around 30 guests took part in it.
The seminar was officiated by Professor Y V Hui, Provost and Vice-president (Academic & Research), and Ms Carol Szeto, CEO of Save the Children Hong Kong, who gave their respective opening remarks.
The seminar was divided into two sessions. In the first session, Mr KS Chan, Acting Senior Policy, Research & Training Officer of the Equal Opportunities Commission; Dr Gary Tang, Associate Director of CPPR; and Mr Angus Chan, Researcher of MWYO presented their research findings and observations on the youth trends in Hong Kong. It was followed by a second session, in which Dr Chi-kit Chan, Director of the Institute for Youth Sustainability Leadership, and Ms June Luk, Senior Domestic Programme Manager of Save the Children Hong Kong, shared their thoughts on the trends and challenges in training and services on youth well-being and development.