The University Grants Committee (UGC) has introduced the Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE) in collaboration with the Quality Assurance Council (QAC). PolyU, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, has expressed its strong support for this groundbreaking initiative.
With a significant investment of AU$100 million, FITE aims to revolutionise teaching and learning practices in universities, fostering a culture of innovation and technological advancement.
PolyU firmly believes that the implementation of FITE will have a profound impact on the overall educational experience, empowering students to unlock their true potential and elevate their digital competency.
By leveraging this funding, PolyU envisions a significant enhancement in the quality of teaching and learning, fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, innovation, and the effective utilisation of technology for educational advancement.
PolyU recognises the impact of technological advancements on digital transformation across diverse industries. In response, the university is committed to revamping its curriculum to foster innovation, technology development, and interdisciplinary talent cultivation.
To this end, two programme components, namely “Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis” (AIDA) and “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” (IE), have been integrated into the General University Requirements. Additionally, PolyU has introduced new Master’s degree programmes such as blockchain technology, metaverse technology, artificial intelligence, and big data computing to better prepare students for the evolving demands of society.
PolyU has introduced the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS) and established the College of Undergraduate Researchers and Innovators (CURI) to foster the development of future researchers and innovators. These initiatives provide undergraduate students with funding and valuable opportunities to engage in individual or collaborative scientific research projects under the mentorship of esteemed professors at the university.
By actively participating in these programmes, students can enhance their research capabilities, contribute to the progress of Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and the nation as a whole, and make significant strides in their academic journey.
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) also welcomed with the introduction of the Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE) by the UGC, as it brings additional resources to universities for the implementation of innovative teaching technologies.
HKUST supports the UGC’s recognition of ethical and legal concerns in emerging technologies. The university offers AI-focused courses and has a committee to guide policies on integrating AI responsibly. The establishment of CAiRE enhances interdisciplinary AI research. HKUST has introduced funds to promote AI adoption and looks forward to collaborating with partners through the FITE program to enhance learning experiences.
Meanwhile, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) also released a statement appreciating the UGC’s establishment of the Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE). CUHK anticipates that this initiative will enable the education sector to venture into new realms of teaching and learning, foster a digitally skilled and technologically responsible generation, and contribute to Hong Kong’s growth as a digital economy and global innovation and technology hub.
The Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education has allocated funding to support universities’ initiatives across four main themes: transforming pedagogies, curriculum, assessment, and student development; enhancing digital competencies for all; promoting technological social responsibility and academic integrity; and fostering academia-industry collaboration for authentic learning experiences.
Additionally, HK$20 million has been designated for inter-institutional collaborative activities. Universities are encouraged to submit their work plans and detailed proposals for consideration.
