HKUST president leads delegation to UAE securing partnerships on research, tech transfer and talent development

A high-level delegation from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) concluded a successful trip to Abu Dhabi and Dubai last week Led by HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP, the delegation established valuable ties and partnerships with prominent institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to foster education, research, and innovation. 

The visit took place during the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road (B&R) initiative when both the Hong Kong government and HKUST had pledged to enhance cooperation in areas such as innovation and technology, and investment and infrastructure development with key B&R members such as the UAE.

During the four-day trip between April 15 and 18, the HKUST delegation engaged with prominent institutions and organizations including the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), the University of Sharjah, Khalifa University of Science and Technology (KU), the United Arab Emirates University, and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Discussions focused on research collaboration, technology transfer, and talent development in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, medical technology, clean energy, and start-up incubation. The delegation also had the privilege of meeting Mr. ZHANG Yiming, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the UAE. Additionally, an alumni gathering was held to strengthen ties with HKUST alumni in the region.

Prof Nancy Ip described the trip as fruitful and rewarding. "During the visit, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress and investment the UAE has made in innovation and knowledge transfer, which aligns closely with Hong Kong's own advancements. I am excited about the many ways HKUST, with our unique edge in innovation, AI and entrepreneurship, can work with partners in the UAE to drive technology advancements in the region while fostering academic cooperation," she said.

HKUST signed two agreements during the trip. The one with DFF – a Dubai government entity with a mission to drive the city 10 years ahead by delivering high-quality futuristic impact – entails a wide range of collaborative activities including joint research and knowledge transfer projects, incubation and exchange programs for startups, students and researchers, as well as sharing of resources and facilities.

The second agreement, signed with the University of Sharjah, focuses on academic collaboration, which includes dual degree programs, joint graduate supervision, joint research programs, sharing of academic materials and scientific information, as well as other exchange initiatives.