On 21 August, 2024, a delegation from CUHK, led by Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments) Professor Chan Wai-yee, visited the Shenzhen Research Institute (SZRI) and CUHK(SZ). The delegation included representatives from key CUHK offices, under Professor Chan’s purview including Office of Innovation and Enterprise, Office of Strategic Development, Institute of Innovative Biomedicine, China Engagement Office, Office for Greater Bay Area Developments, and the CUHK Campuses Collaboration Office.

Morning Session: SZRI Visit

The visit to SZRI began with a warm welcome by Professor Yam Yeung, Director of SZRI, and Dr. Lin Huangquan, Executive Director of SZRI and Director of the Office for Greater Bay Area Developments. Dr. Lin provided an overview of SZRI’s development and key milestones. The delegation was then given an insightful tour of the institute, visiting two innovative startups—Gartec Safety Technology and VoiceAI Technology—in SZRI’s InnoHub. They also toured two key laboratories: the Genetics and Genomics Laboratory and the Cell-free DNA Laboratory, which highlighted SZRI’s cutting-edge research and technological advancements.

Afternoon Session: CUHK(SZ) Visit

In the afternoon, the delegation traveled to CUHK(SZ), where they were welcomed by Vice-President Mr. K.C. Yuen, Associate Vice-President Professor Cai Xiaoqiang, and Associate Vice-President Mr. Lu Guoshi. The visit aimed to deepen CUHK colleagues’ understanding of CUHK(SZ) and to explore opportunities for further exchange and collaboration between the two campuses.

Professor Chan and his teams engaged in fruitful discussions with CUHK(SZ) representatives on education, innovation, and technology collaboration. Following these discussions, the delegation toured several key facilities, including the CUHK(SZ) University Library and Shaw College, gaining insights into the rapid growth and developments at CUHK(SZ).

Looking Ahead

This visit not only broadened CUHK colleagues’ understanding of both SZRI and CUHK(SZ), but it also laid a solid foundation for future collaborative projects. At SZRI, the delegation gained valuable insights into its innovative research and technological advancements, while at CUHK(SZ), they explored opportunities for academic exchange and cooperation in education and technology. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the spirit of “One Brand, Two Campuses,” and expressed their dedication to strengthening ties that will enhance CUHK’s competitiveness locally, nationally, and internationally.

Reflecting on the visit, Professor Chan highlighted the vibrant growth and innovation at SZRI and CUHK(SZ). He emphasised that the close cooperation between the research and academic arms of both campuses will play a crucial role in advancing education, research, and technological innovation. Moving forward, he expressed optimism about the potential for in-depth collaborations across various fields, further promoting the development of higher education and scientific breakthroughs within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.