InnoTech Scholarship Awardee Report 2021

2021
Project Report
Create our future with global vision
Serve our community with intelligence
視野開拓未來
知識貢獻社會
贊助及支持機構全力支持主辦機構

Sponsored and Supported by Supported by Organised by
2021
Project Report
Create our future with global vision
Serve our community with intelligence
視野開拓未來
知識貢獻社會
Table of Contents
6 Scholarship Introduction
8 List of 2021 Awardees
10 Membership of Awardee Selection Commitee 2021
11 Membership of Scholarship Administration Commitee 2021
12 Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme
14 Mentorship Programme
15 Local Internship Programme
16 Service Project Programme
17 Reports of 2021 Awardees
68 Introduction of Innovation and Technology Commission
69 Introduction of HSBC
70 Introduction of The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Scholarship
The Scholarship comprises 4 components:
I.
Introduction
Overseas/ Mainland
Attachment Programme
Innovation and Technology Scholarship

“Innovation and Technology Scholarship” was first launched in 2011 and has Awardees were sponsored to take part in one
achieved remarkable results. Under the joint sponsorship and support from the or more attachment, research or other learning
Innovation and Technology Commission and HSBC, The Hong Kong Federation programmes at renowned overseas/ Mainland
of Youth Groups organises the Eleventh Scholarship in 2021. universities/ institutions in order to broaden their
international exposure.
The Scholarship aims to recognise outstanding science undergraduates from
local universities. Every year, it selects and awards twenty-five of the students
nominated by the Vice-Chancellors/ Presidents of universities. Each awardee
has been granted a scholarship up to HK$150,000 for a series of elite training
programmes tailored for young people passionate for science and technology
to expand their exposure to the industries and develop an international
perspective, for the grooming of innovation and technology talents.
6
II. III. IV.
Mentorship Local Internship Service Project
Programme Programme (Optional) Programme
Each awardee was assigned to a mentor, Each awardee could opt for an internship Awardees contributed to the promotion
who is an outstanding personality in the of 4-12 weeks in a local technology of innovation and technology through
field relevant to the student’s study for company, organisation or government their participation in community services/
advice and guidance to the awardee not department related to his/ her field of activities, e.g. educational activities
only throughout the awarded year but study in order to gain some hands-on organised for local primary and secondary
hopefully thereafter. knowledge of the industry in a real-life school students to arouse their interest in
setting. Overall internship period should science and technology.
not exceed 24 weeks.
In this report, 25 awardees will share
their experiences and thoughts about
the Scholarship’s programmes. It also
serves as a recap of their learning process
in science and technology. It is hoped
that they will stretch their wings and
contribute themselves to the innovation
and technology industries in the future.
7
List of 2021 Awardees
Miss CHAN Hiu Man, Monica 陳曉汶 Mr CHU Wang Yee, Allan 朱宏懿
City University of Hong Kong The University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
香港城市大學香港大學
獸醫學學士內外全科醫學士
Mr CHAN Ho Fung, Jacky 陳浩楓 Miss CHUI Siu Wa, Zara 徐韶華
The Chinese University of Hong Kong The University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
香港中文大學香港大學
內外全科醫學士生物醫學學士
Miss CHAN Wing Lam, Vanora 陳泳霖 Mr HO Chun Wa, Edwin 何駿華
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and Business Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences
香港科技大學香港中文大學
理學士（生物科技及商學）生物醫學理學士
Miss CHAU Yat Che Charlene 周逸姿 Miss LAM Rainbow Yi Hung 林綺虹
The University of Hong Kong The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Technology
香港大學香港科技大學
內外全科醫學士理學士（環境管理及科技）
Miss CHEUNG Yin Chi, Meryl 張彥芝 Mr LAU King Heng, King 劉璟恆
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Bachelor of Science in Earth System Science
(Atmospheric Science & Science, Technology and Research Stream)
香港理工大學
職業治療學理學士香港中文大學
地球系統科學理學士（大氣科學及科研星耀專修範圍）
Miss CHOI On To Sonja 蔡安淘 Miss LOO Hiu Tung, Kristy 盧曉潼
The Chinese University of Hong Kong The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Bachelor of Science in Physics Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
(Enrichment Stream in Theoretical Physics)
香港理工大學
香港中文大學生物醫學工程理學士
物理理學士（理論物理精研）
Mr CHOW Bak Yue, Matthew 周伯儒 Mr NG Chit Yui Jeffrey 吳哲睿

The University of Hong Kong The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
香港大學香港理工大學
內外全科醫學士物理治療學理學士
8
Mr NG Ming Hin, Harvey 吳銘軒 Miss YAU Hui Ching, Charlie 游栩晴
City University of Hong Kong The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Bachelor of Engineering in Financial Technology
香港城市大學香港中文大學
理學士（電腦科學）金融科技學工程學士
Miss POON Hiu Ling Stephanie 潘曉鈴 Miss YEO Victoria Anna 楊潔雯
The University of Hong Kong The University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
香港大學香港大學
內外全科醫學士內外全科醫學士
Miss SHAM Sze Tung Tiffany 沈思彤 Mr YEUNG Yuen Hei 楊沅熹
The Chinese University of Hong Kong City University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
(Global Physician-Leadership Stream)
香港城市大學
香港中文大學理學士（電腦科學）
內外全科醫學士（環球醫學領袖培訓專修組別）
Mr WONG Ho Chi, Andy 黃皓智 Mr YUEN Lok Cheung, Vincent 袁樂彰

City University of Hong Kong The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Business Administration in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Global Business Systems Management (Global Physician-Leadership Stream)
香港城市大學香港中文大學
工商管理學士（環球商業系統管理）內外全科醫學士（環球醫學領袖培訓專修組別）
Miss WONG Tsz Yan, Cherry 黃梓欣

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and Business
香港科技大學
理學士（生物科技及商學）
Miss WONG Wai Ning, Emily 黃慧寧

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Bachelor of
Business Administration in General Business Management
香港科技大學
工學士（計算機科學）及工商管理學士（綜合商業管理學）
Miss WONG Wing Yan, Yanny 黃詠茵

The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
香港中文大學
內外全科醫學士（環球醫學領袖培訓專修組別）
9
Committees 2021
Membership of Awardee
Selection Committee 2021
Chairman
The Hon Bernard CHAN, GBM, GBS, JP
陳智思先生 , GBM, GBS, JP
The Then Convenor of the Non-official Members
Executive Council, HKSAR
時任香港特別行政區行政會議非官守議員召集人
Members
Mr David GRIMME Dr George LAM, BBS, JP
紀睿明先生林家禮博士 , BBS, JP
Group General Manager, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific Chair, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) Sustainable Business Network
香港上海滙豐銀行有限公司集團總經理兼亞太區營運總監 (ESBN)
聯合國亞洲及太平洋經濟社會委員會（UN ESCAP）
可持續發展企業網絡（ESBN）主席
Ir LAM Sai Hung, JP Mr LEE Chung Sin, Esmond, JP

林世雄工程師 , JP 李忠善先生 , JP
The Then Permanent Secretary for Development (Works) Deputy Secretary for Education
HKSAR Government HKSAR Government
時任香港特別行政區政府發展局常任秘書長（工務）香港特別行政區政府教育局副秘書長
Dr Brian LI Ms PUN Ting Ting, Rebecca, JP

李耀祥博士潘婷婷女士 , JP
Vice Chairman & Executive Vice President, The Then Commissioner for Innovation and Technology
Gold Peak Technology Group Limited HKSAR Government
金山科技工業有限公司副主席及執行副總裁時任香港特別行政區政府創新科技署署長
Professor Timothy TONG, BBS, JP Professor Rosie YOUNG, GBM, GBS, JP

唐偉章教授 , BBS, JP 楊紫芝教授 , GBM, GBS, JP
Council Member Emeritus Professor in Department of Medicine
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups The University of Hong Kong
香港青年協會理事會委員香港大學醫學院榮休教授
10
Membership of Scholarship
Administration Committee 2021
Chairman
Dr Joseph LEE, GBS, OStJ, JP
李宗德博士 , GBS, OStJ, JP
Group Chairman
Wofoo Plastics Limited
和富塑化集團主席
Members
Mr Mohamed Din BUTT, MH Mr Wilson CHAN Man-ho
畢堅文先生 , MH 陳文浩先生
Executive Director Deputy Executive Director
The Hong Kong Productivity Council The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
香港生產力促進局總裁香港青年協會副總幹事
Mr William CHIU Dr Lucas HUI Chi Kwong

招智輝先生許志光博士
Global Head of Future Skills, Group Corporate Sustainability, The Then Chief Technology Officer,
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research
香港上海滙豐銀行有限公司集團 Institute Company Limited
企業可持續發展部未來技能環球總監時任香港應用科技研究有限公司首席科技總監
Ms PUN Ting Ting, Rebecca, JP Mr Simon WONG Kwong-yeung, MH

潘婷婷女士 , JP 黃廣揚先生 , MH
The Then Commissioner for Innovation and Technology Chief Executive Officer
HKSAR Government Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre
時任香港特別行政區政府創新科技署署長物流及供應鏈多元技術研發中心行政總裁
Mr Peter YAN King-shun, JP

任景信先生 , JP
Chief Executive Officer
Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
香港數碼港管理有限公司行政總裁
11
Overseas/ Mainland
Attachment Programme
Programmes joined by 2021 awardees:
Host Institution Destination Host Institution Destination

Canadian Ophthalmological Society Canada Moorfields Eye Hospital UK
University of British Columbia Canada OMT Training UK
European Board of Medical Assessors Finland Oxford Eye Hospital / Moorfields Hospital UK
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Finland The Royal College of Surgeons of England UK
European Society of Retina Specialists Germany The Royal Society of Medicine UK
(EURETINA)
The University of Exeter UK
Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Germany
The University of Leeds UK
Physics (Albert Einstein Institute)
University College London UK
Eurasia Web Iceland
University of Cambridge UK
Embu Provincial Hospital Kenya
University of Manchester UK
Institute for Scientific and Engineering Mainland
Research (ISER) China Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Trust UK
Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Malaysia Royal College of Paediatrics and Child UK

Health
South Asia Institute for Research and Norway
Publication American Academy of Ophthalmology USA
The Arctic University of Norway Norway Association of Research and Vision in USA
Ophthalmology (ARVO)
Ottobock Philippines
Boston University USA
Asia Oceania Geosciences Society Singapore
Columbia University USA
Asia Pacific Association of Cataract and Singapore
Refractive Surgeons Harvard University USA
National University of Singapore Singapore Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory - USA

Columbia University
Singapore National Eye Centre Singapore
Massachusetts Institute of Technology USA
African Wildlife Ranch South Africa
Sloan School of Management
Asia-Pacific Association of Cataract and South Korea
Massachusetts Institute of Technology USA
Refractive Surgeons (APACRS)
NeurlPS USA
Institute for Technical and Academic South Korea
Research (ITAR) Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School USA
of Medicine at UCLA
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Switzerland
Lausanne (EPFL) The Association of Research and Vision USA
in Ophthalmology (ARVO)
Humanitarian Affairs Asia Thailand
University of Pennsylvania USA
FinTech World Forum 2022 UK
University of California San Diego USA
Lancaster University UK
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign USA
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS UK
Foundation Trust (LUHFT)
12
13
Mentorship Programme
Mentors 2021
Professor Francis CHAN, SBS, JP 陳家亮教授 , SBS, JP Dr Brian LI 李耀祥博士

Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Vice Chairman & Executive Vice President
Choh-Ming Li Professor of Medicine and Therapeutics Gold Peak Technology Group Limited
The Chinese University of Hong Kong 金山科技工業有限公司副主席及執行副總裁
香港中文大學醫學院院長及卓敏內科及藥物治療系講座教授
Professor LI Wen Jung 李文榮教授
Dr Helen CHAN 陳曦齡醫生 Chair Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
Chief Executive Officer, Vita Green Health Products Co., Ltd. Associate Provost (Resources Planning),
維特健靈健康產品有限公司行政總裁 Office of the Provost City University of Hong Kong
香港城市大學機械工程學系教授兼協理學務副校長（大學策略）
Professor Juliana CN CHAN 陳重娥教授
Professor, Department of Medicine & Therapeutics Professor Dennis LO Yuk-ming, SBS, JP 盧煜明教授 , SBS, JP
The Chinese University of Hong Kong Associate Dean (Research), Faculty of Medicine
香港中文大學內科及藥物治療學講座教授 Chairman, Department of Chemical Pathology
Professor Daniel M CHENG, BBS, MH, JP 鄭文聰教授 , BBS, MH, JP 香港中文大學醫學院副院長（研究）及化學病理學系系主任
Managing Director
Dunwell Enviro-Tech (Holdings) Ltd. Professor Irene NG Oi-lin 吳呂愛蓮教授
正昌環保科技（集團）有限公司董事總經理 Chair Professor of Pathology
Director of State Key Laboratory of Liver Research (HKU)
Professor CHIU Wai-yan, Philip 趙偉仁教授 The University of Hong Kong
Associate Dean (External Affairs) of the Faculty of Medicine, 香港大學病理學系講座教授及肝病研究國家重點實驗室（香港大學）主任
Professor and Head of Upper Gastrointestinal and Metabolic Surgery,
Department of Surgery Professor Paul TAM, JP 譚廣亨教授 , JP
The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chair Professor & Vice President
香港中文大學醫學院副院長（外務）及上消化道外科及代謝外科教授及主任 Macau University of Science and Technology
Emeritus Professor and Honorary Clinical Professor of Surgery
Dr Roy CHUNG, GBS, JP 鍾志平博士 , GBS, JP The University of Hong Kong
Co-founder and Non-Executive Director 澳門科技大學講座教授及副校長
Techtronic Industries Company Limited 香港大學榮休教授及榮譽外科臨床教授
創科實業有限公司創辦人及非執行董事
Dr Samson TAM, JP 譚偉豪博士 , JP
Professor Aleksandra DJURISIC Non-Executive Director
Professor, Department of Physics Group Sense (International) Ltd
The University of Hong Kong 權智（國際）有限公司非執行董事
香港大學物理學系教授
Professor Timothy TONG, BBS, JP 唐偉章教授 , BBS, JP
Mr David GRIMME 紀睿明先生 Council Member
Group General Manager The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific 前任香港科學院院長及創院院士
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
香港上海滙豐銀行有限公司集團總經理兼亞太區營運總監 Professor TSUI Lap-chee, GBM, GBS, JP 徐立之教授 , GBM, GBS, JP
Former President and Founding Member
Professor Nancy IP, SBS, MH, JP 葉玉如教授 , SBS, MH, JP The Hong Kong Academy of Sciences
President and The Morningside Professor of Life Science 前任香港科學院院長及創院院士
香港科技大學校長兼晨興生命科學教授 Mr WONG Ming Yam, SBS, BBS, JP 王明鑫先生 , SBS, BBS, JP
Former Chairman
Mr LAM Chiu Ying, SBS, JP 林超英先生 , SBS, JP The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute
Former Director of the Hong Kong Observatory 香港應用科技研究院前董事局主席
HKSAR Government
香港特別行政區政府前香港天文台台長 Professor Albert YU Cheung-hoi, JP 于常海教授 , JP
Founder and Chairman, Hai Kang Life Corporation Limited
Mr Fred LAM, GBS, JP 林天福先生 , GBS, JP Chairman, Hong Kong Biotechnology Organization
Chief Executive Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong 海康生命科技有限公司創始人兼主席及香港生物科技協會主席
香港機場管理局行政總裁
Dr Edwin YU Chau-leung 余秋良醫生
Professor Gabriel LEUNG, GBS, JP 梁卓偉教授 , GBS, JP Honorary President
Honorary Clinical Professor, School of Public Health Hong Kong Association for Integration of Chinese-Western Medicine
Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine 香港中西醫結合醫學會榮譽會長
The University of Hong Kong
香港大學李嘉誠醫學院公共衞生學院名譽臨床教授 Professor YUEN Kwok-yung, GBS, JP 袁國勇教授 , GBS, JP
Henry Fok Professor in Infectious Diseases
Professor LEUNG Suet-yi 梁雪兒教授 Chair of Infectious Diseases, Department of Microbiology
Associate Dean (Research), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong 香港大學霍英東基金教授（傳染病學）及微生物學系講座教授
香港大學李嘉誠醫學院副院長（科研）
14
Local Internship Programme
Local Internship Programme Supporting Organisations 本地實習計劃支持機構
Awardees can opt to work as an intern in a technology company, a university or a government department related to his/ her field of study.
BEAMPLUSLAB Limited Insight Robotics Limited

視野機器人有限公司
Cheung Hoi International Development Limited
長海國際發展有限公司 Institute of Digestive Disease,
Computer and Technologies Holdings Limited 香港中文大學消化疾病研究所
科聯系統集團有限公司
Koln 3D Technology (Medical) Limited
Department of Health Technology and Informatics, 科能三維技術（醫療）有限公司
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
香港理工大學醫療科技及資訊學系 Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Limited
李氏大藥廠（香港）有限公司
Development Bureau, HKSAR Government
香港特別行政區政府發展局 Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine,
Dunwell Industrial (Holdings) Limited 香港大學李嘉誠醫學院
正昌（集團）有限公司
Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Limited
Ecopia (HK) Limited 納米及先進材料研發有限公司
雅高環保香港有限公司
NVIDIA
Eu Yan Sang (Hong Kong) Limited 輝達
余仁生（香港）有限公司
Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong Limited
Faculty of Medicine, 奧雅納工程顧問
香港中文大學醫學院 Prosthetics and Orthotics Department,
Prince of Wales Hospital
Falcon E-Trade Limited 威爾斯親王醫院義肢及矯形部門
富勤通貿有限公司
Queen Mary Hospital
Food and Health Bureau, HKSAR Government 瑪麗醫院
香港特別行政區政府食物及衞生局
Rehab-Robotics Company Ltd
General Electric 復康機器人技術有限公司
通用電氣
Sanomics Limited
German Pool 善覓有限公司
德國寶
Sanwa BioTech Limited
GreenSafety Technology Limited 三和生物科技有限公司
綠色安全科技有限公司
SenseTime
Gold Peak Technology Group Limited 商湯集團
金山科技工業有限公司
School of Biomedical Sciences,
Hai Kang Life Corporation Limited The University of Hong Kong
海康生命科技有限公司香港大學生物醫學學院
Henderson Land Development Company Limited School of Chinese Medicine,
恒基兆業地產有限公司 The Chinese University of Hong Kong
香港中文大學中醫學院
HM Environmental Technologies Limited
恆木環保科技有限公司 The Hong Kong Productivity Council
香港生產力促進局
Hong Kong Aero Engine Services Limited
香港航空發動機維修服務有限公司 The TeleEye Group
千里眼集團
Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology
Research Institute Company Limited Vita Green Health Products Co., Ltd.
香港應用科技研究院有限公司維特健靈健康產品有限公司
Hong Kong Observatory, HKSAR Government Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology
香港特別行政區政府香港天文台 Pharmaceutical Limited
兆科眼科
15
Service Project
Programme
Ser vice Project Programme, as one of the key
components in the programme, requires awardees
to provide service to the community by designing
different science workshops for the youths. In the
Scholarship 2021, awardees contributed to promoting
innovation and technology through their participation
in communit y ser vices, for example delivering
educational activities at public science carnivals, local
community centres, science-related competitions
and online workshops to arouse students’ interest
in science and technology. Around 530 primary and
secondary students and the public had benefited from
the service projects provided by awardees.
16
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY SCHOLARSHIP 2019 PROJECT REPORT
Reports of 2021 Awardees
17
Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme
International Conference on Bioinformatics, Biomedicine,

Biotechnology and Computational Biology, Eurasia Web,
Iceland
Attending the International Conference on Bioinformatics,

Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Computational Biology was an eye-
opening experience that provided me with insights into the latest
research and methodologies in the field. Witnessing global experts
present their research findings and methodologies was valuable,
and I gained soft skills and an understanding of how international
conferences operate. The conference allowed me to appreciate the
diversity of research methodologies employed based on research
scale, regional availability and practical considerations. I learnt
about the latest trends and developments in these fields, and this
knowledge will be valuable when I further pursue my career in the
industry. Overall, the conference was a valuable experience that has
developed my knowledge and skills.
CHAN Hiu Man, Monica Nanotherapeutics—how nano biotechnology is revolutionising
healthcare, University of Cambridge, the UK
City University of Hong Kong
Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine Attending the Institute for Continuing Education at the University
of Cambridge provided me with a deeper understanding of
human and animal physiologies and the real-world applications of
nanotherapeutics. I learnt about the broad range of applications of
nanotechnology in veterinary medicine and how researchers are
The InnoTech Scholarship provided me with utilising it to develop more targeted approaches to the diagnosis,
prevention and treatment of various veterinary diseases. The
diverse opportunities to learn and grow,
programme also gave me the opportunity to learn from leading
including a research internship at the Li Ka experts in the field, engage in discussions and ask questions. It was
Shing Faculty of Medicine, attending an an immersive experience that will be invaluable to me in my future
international conference and organising a career in veterinary medicine.
STEM workshop on electrophoresis. I also
studied animal behaviour and nanotherapeutics
at the University of Cambridge, and health data
science and data analytics in healthcare at
University College London during my summer
break. In South Africa, I completed an internship
at a wildlife ranch that promotes animal welfare
and conservation. These experiences allowed
me to gain practical experience and insights
into the latest research and technologies, and to
immerse myself in different cultures.
An Introduction to Animal Behaviour, University of Cambridge,
the UK
Enrolling in the animal behaviour course at the University of

Cambridge allowed me to gain a better understanding of animal
behaviour in a more specific way. The course provided a framework
for analysing animal behaviour and developed my logical thinking
and critical reasoning skills, which will be invaluable in my future
work in animal handling. The practical aspects of the programme,
such as hands-on experience in animal behaviour and training, were
also invaluable. I had the opportunity to interact with guide dogs and
observe their behaviour firsthand.
Overall, the experience of studying at a world-class university and

socialising with people from around the world was unforgettable.
The animal behaviour course provided me with a unique approach to
understanding animal behaviour, and the practical experience will be
beneficial in my future career in veterinary medicine.
18
Healthcare Data Science and Data Analytics in Healthcare (level

2) (credit-bearing), University College London, the UK
The data science programme at University College London was

an intensive and valuable experience that provided me with a solid
foundation in coding and data analytics. I had the opportunity to
explore various research tools for data cleaning and analysis, as
My research internship at The University of Hong Kong was eye-
well as machine learning. The lectures also provided guidance on
opening, offering valuable experience in public health research.
self-learning beyond the scope of the short course. A highlight of
Working on a regional research project related to One Health allowed
the programme was the group project where I collaborated with
me to practise data handling and analysis, graphic presentation of
fellows from different fields to develop machine learning models for
data and literature review. I also had the opportunity to observe the
predicting risks of breast cancer based on big data. The programme
management of a large-scale research project involving multiple
also allowed me to develop critical thinking skills and adopt a
institutions. Dr Chan's mentorship was invaluable, providing useful
collaborative approach to work on data. Overall, the skills and
reading materials on my areas of interest and inspiring me to
knowledge gained during the programme will be valuable to me in
start my own research on animal welfare legislation. Overall, the
my future studies and career, and the connections I made during the
internship provided a unique experience and valuable skills that are
short course create the potential for future collaborations. I highly
beneficial in my future studies and career.
recommend the programme to anyone interested in data science.
Service Project Programme
Electrophoresis & Vaccine Research and Development
Organising and instructing a workshop as part of the Service Project

Programme was a rewarding experience for me. It allowed me to
contribute to secondary education whilst promoting the concept
of One Health and the critical role of veterinarians. The workshop
focused on electrophoresis, a technology widely applied in various
industries and scientific research, and was developed with original
teaching materials suitable for the children's levels. Instructing the
children allowed me to develop my teaching and communication
skills, which will be invaluable in my future career as a veterinarian.
Overall, the experience was enriching, and I look forward to more
future opportunities for community service and education.
Internship Programme, Cango Wildlife Ranch, South Africa
Overall Evaluation
Working with exotic wildlife species at Cango Wildlife Ranch
was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provided a hands-on
opportunity to understand their dietary requirements, medical The Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme was an enriching
needs, mental and physical health as well as welfare. Local experience that allowed me to integrate learning and apply
zoologists and conservation biologists enriched my understanding knowledge in interactive environments while fully immersing
of local conservation, breeding programmes and epidemiology. myself in different cultures. The trips to Cambridge, London
The experience reshaped my expectations for sanctuaries and and South Africa offered unforgettable academic and cultural
highlighted the importance of culture and education in society's role experiences, as well as opportunities to broaden my horizons and
in wildlife conservation. Interactive lectures at Cango Wildlife Ranch gain new perspectives by socialising with people from all over
provided insight into relevant international accreditations of zoos and the world. The Programme also allowed me to develop practical
aquaria. Additionally, I had the opportunity to assist in the sedation skills in animal behaviour and training, coding, data analytics and
and clinical examination of a Cape cobra and an eclectus parrot, and wildlife conservation. The interpersonal and life skills I acquired are
the opportunity to observe and practise this in a clinical setting was invaluable and have prepared me for future opportunities.
a rewarding experience.
19
The timing of this opportunity, coinciding with the rise of artificial
intelligence, has been nothing short of providential and has sparked
a newfound passion within me to explore the potential of technology
in my medical practice.
Under the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic on

overseas exchanges and attachments, my planned overseas visits
to some prestigious institutions were suspended. However, with the
support of the Scholarship, I was able to adapt my plans and enrol in
an online course.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Fundamentals and

Applications, MIT PRO
The launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 represents a major paradigm

shift in productivity. I was thrilled to learn about this easily accessible
technology and how it can help us, doctors, comprehend complex
and large patient data sets in a faster and more efficient manner
CHAN Ho Fung, Jacky during our daily routine. My excitement inspired me to pursue a
programme led by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (MIT) titled ‘Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Fundamentals and
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Applications’ in May 2023.
Despite being conducted in an online format, the seven-week

programme, led by distinguished experts in the fields of computer
science and medicine, was a truly enlightening experience. Through
the course, I was able to acquire a solid technical foundation in AI
The InnoTech Scholarship 2021 provided me
by delving deeply into the theories and basic algorithms of machine
with a unique opportunity to immerse myself learning, including logistic regressions, decision trees, support
in the world of automation-driven healthcare vector machines and neural networks. The course also introduced
technologies and neuroscience. Although I the extensive ongoing and potential medical AI products from
was unable to carry out my initial plans for around the world. The capability to process vast amounts of data
instantaneously and extract consequential, easily comprehensible
overseas clinical attachments due to the
information makes AI an invaluable tool for pattern analysis with great
COVID-19 pandemic, I feel incredibly fortunate
potential in medical image analysis and the pharmaceutical industry.
to have been able to enrol in a Massachusetts
Institute of Technology (MIT) course on Local Internship Programme
artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies in
healthcare. I was also able to benefit from local The field of neuroscience is a captivating and multifaceted discipline
mentorship programmes and attachments at that seeks to elucidate the brain and its influence on human
esteemed medical institutions. behaviour, cognition and emotion. The complexity and vastness of
this field make it a compelling and intellectually rewarding area of
study. As an aspiring medical student, I have been deeply invested
in understanding the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric
disorders, which continue to pose significant challenges to modern
medicine.
Asia-Pacific Neuroscience Student Congress 2021
I participated in the Asia-Pacific Neuroscience Student Congress

(APNSC) 2021, a remarkable three-day academic conference that
brought together medical students, scientists and physicians from
across the Asia-Pacific region.
The conference introduced new hypotheses on the neuronal network

of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the impacts of COVID-19 on
the neurological system, and the latest advances in spinal surgery.
The conference also featured inspiring speakers who presented
innovative approaches to the diagnostics and treatments of
neurological diseases. For example, utilising robotic limbs for stroke
rehabilitation and developing machine learning algorithms on retinal
imaging analysis for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
20
The APNSC was an insightful and rewarding experience that and knowledge in the field. Professor Tam's unwavering passion and
has enriched my understanding of the latest advancements in commitment to his area of interest, as well as his relentless pursuit
neuroscience research and inspired me to continue pursuing my of excellence, are a remarkable inspiration to me. I am grateful for the
academic and professional goals in this exciting field. invaluable insights and experiences the mentorship has afforded me.
Education is an essential component of the city’s innovation and

technology development. I felt honoured to have the opportunity to
contribute to the community by organising a STEM workshop ‘肌不
可失’ during the summer of 2022, which aimed to provide primary
school students with a brief introduction to the musculoskeletal
system and the benefits of regular physical activity.
Using a combination of videos, animations and hands-on activities,

I explained the anatomy, functions, and coordination of muscles
and bones. The hands-on activity was a highlight of the workshop,
Clinical Attachment at Division of Neurology, Prince of Wales where participants built their own biceps muscle model with simple
Hospital materials such as wood sticks, straws and plastic bags. This allowed
them to reinforce their memory of the 3D structures of muscles,
In the summer of 2022, I had the privilege of conducting a two- tendons and bones, and provided a tangible way for them to apply
week clinical attachment at the Division of Neurology at the Prince the knowledge they had learnt.
of Wales Hospital, under the guidance of Professor Bonaventure Ip.
The feedback from the participants after the workshop was very
I was also allowed to attend research clinics at the SHKP Kwok Brain encouraging and reinforced my belief in the importance of education
Health Research Centre and present interesting cases in weekly in promoting innovation and technology development.
department grand rounds. These allowed me to develop a deeper
understanding of the latest advancements in clinical neurology
research and to appreciate the importance of the integration of clinical
practice and research in improving patient outcomes. One of the
most rewarding sessions in my clinical attachment was participating
in a literature review session with other shadowing students,
during which we compared patient selection models on mechanical
thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke patients. Through this
session, I gained familiarity with essential statistical tools in medical
research and learnt to identify important clinical problems that could
potentially lead to new research directions.
I had the honour of participating in the Mentorship Programme under Overall Evaluation
the guidance of Professor Paul Tam, a pioneering figure in paediatric
surgery and the Chair Professor of the Department of Surgery at The Receiving this prestigious Scholarship is a great honour, and I am
University of Hong Kong. deeply grateful for the opportunity it has afforded me to meet
with distinguished clinicians and scientists from around the world.
I also had the privilege of participating in a variety of programmes
and activities that have broadened my horizons and expanded my
understanding of the world.
I am deeply grateful to The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups,

the Innovation and Technology Commission as well as The Hongkong
and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited for their generous
support and sponsorship. Moving forward, I am committed to using
my passion, enthusiasm for innovation and technology, and the skills
I have developed during the Scholarship programmes to bring a
positive impact to the community.
During our meeting at the university, Professor Tam generously

shared his career path and the joys and difficulties he encountered
during his tenure in the United Kingdom. He also imparted to me
precious advice on how to prepare myself to become a medical
professional and researcher, drawing on his extensive experiences
21
With the InnoTech Scholarship, I met a community of like-minded
people with a passion for science and technology. In the future, I
look forward to continuing my journey in healthcare and promoting
innovation and technology to the next generations.
With financial support from the Scholarship, I participated in an

overseas exchange programme at the École Polytechnique Fédérale
de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland from February to June 2022. Being
a biotechnology and business student, I am interested in translational
medicine and implementing biotechnology knowledge with an
emphasis on healthcare applications. Hence, I took two courses,
namely ‘New Tools & Research Strategies in Personalized Health’
and ‘Nutrition: From Molecules to Health’ respectively. I enjoyed
these interactive courses and discussed recent developments in
personalised health solutions with classmates and professors.
During in-class case studies, I was always encouraged to express
my opinions on issues of public health and gained a lot of inspiration
CHAN Wing Lam, Vanora from my classmates and lecturers.
Being an exchange student, I was fortunate to have an opportunity

The Hong Kong University of Science and
to participate in a lab immersion in the Laboratory of Biomaterials
Technology for Immunoengineering, and I was mainly involved in the project of
Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and ‘Reprogramming immune cell metabolism with engineered proteins’.
I got hands-on experience in designing study plans, conducting
Business experiments and performing data analysis. I had a good time learning
new lab skills and getting along with my lab mates throughout the
project.
It was my honour to be selected as one of

the InnoTech Scholarship awardees in 2021.
With the support of the Scholarship, I got the
chance to intern at a local pharmaceutical
company, launch a STEM workshop, connect to
an experienced professional in the healthcare
industry, and study at the École Polytechnique
Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland.
This Scholarship is one of the greatest

recognitions and encouragements for me
to continue my journey in innovation and
technology.
22
Outside coursework and lab immersion, I also spent quality time with
other international and exchange students. The student association
ESN EPFL organised a wide range of social events, including
local tours, sports and international dinners. During these cultural I was honoured to be one of the mentees of Professor Albert C H
exchanges, I was delighted to meet students from all over the world Yu. Professor Yu is a neuroscientist and bio-entrepreneur, and is
and learn about different cultures. It was a great time to chat with experienced in neuroscience and infectious disease research. He
people from different educational backgrounds about a wide range of is the Founder and Chairman of Hai Kang Life Corporation Limited,
topics such as food, celebrities and hobbies. I was proud to be one Vice-Director of the Neuroscience Research Institute, Professor of
of the Hong Kong students to promote and share our unique culture the Department of Neurobiology and Professor at the Infectious
and lifestyle. Disease Center at Peking University. He was kind and willing to give
advice on my career planning. Our first meeting was joyful, and I felt
To better understand the cutting-edge research projects in EPFL, motivated and full of energy after sharing with him my passion in life
I also participated in the events organised by the School of Life science.
Science Engineering. Events such as MT180 and the School’s
20th Anniversary Garden Party provided a platform for students to Service Project Programme
network with other researchers and professors. It was a valuable
opportunity for me to meet students from other labs and share our I organised a STEM workshop entitled ‘Can You See DNA? Kiwi
interest in science. The Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme DNA Extraction’ at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park.
was undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences I The targeted participants were primary school students and their
have had in my four-year undergraduate study. With the generous parents. The goal of the workshop was to let participants explore
financial support from the Scholarship, I got the chance to widen my science in their daily life and stimulate their interest in innovation
international exposure and spend valuable time in a lab immersion. and technology. In this experiment, children and their parents had a
chance to extract DNA from a kiwi using everyday material at home.
Local Internship Programme During the workshops, I was impressed by the students’ curiosity
and creativity. I was pleased to see all participants enjoy this hands-
on experience.
Overall Evaluation
Thanks to the InnoTech Scholarship, I was able to make my dreams

come true. All the experiences I gained through the Scholarship will
provide me lifelong benefits. With the support of the Scholarship, I
was able to explore the world, polish my lab skills and meet people
with the same interests in science and technology. I express my
deepest gratitude to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation
Limited, the Innovation and Technology Commission and The Hong
Kong Federation of Youth Groups. Through this Scholarship, I met
many wonderful people including my mentor and supervisors from
I joined Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology Pharmaceutical Limited the internship programme, and other brilliant awardees. Without this
for my Local Internship Programme. Zhaoke Ophthalmology is a Scholarship, my university life would not have been so fruitful and
spin-off from its parent company, Lee’s Pharmaceutical Holdings unforgettable. Although the InnoTech Scholarship 2021 has ended, I
Limited. The company was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange believe it is just the start of my journey in innovation and technology.
in 2021. It was my pleasure to join this fast-growing company and I wish to continue to contribute to society through my innovative
learn about pharmaceutical developments in eye diseases. Zhaoke insights in the future.
Ophthalmology has a comprehensive drug pipeline including both
innovative and generic treatments covering six major eye diseases.
I was assigned to the Research and Development Department and
supervised by the business development manager. During the three-
month internship programme, I mainly worked on market research
and assisted in drug project management. Colleagues were friendly
and willing to give me advice on my work and career planning. With
their help, I was able to collect scientific news about ocular diseases
and their corresponding drug developments. I also got the chance to
perform analysis on clinical studies. It was a valuable opportunity to
connect to healthcare professionals and experience working in the
pharmaceutical industry.
23
I visited two eye hospitals, the Oxford Eye Hospital and the
Moorfields Eye Hospital, during the Scholarship period. Working
with a group of clinicians specialising in retinal surgery at the Oxford
Eye Hospital, I learnt more about various vitreoretinal pathologies and
surgical techniques. What piqued my interest the most, however, is
their work on inherited retinal diseases, which represent a spectrum
of diseases that constitutes a major cause of blindness worldwide.
There are more than twenty phenotypes, depending on the underlying
pathology. However, they may present with similar clinical features,
especially towards the latter stages, with irreversible characteristics
like cell death and retinal atrophy. To further add to the diagnostic
challenge, the genetic makeup of these diseases has much inter-
allelic and intra-allelic overlap and variability. Owing to such clinical
and genetic heterogeneity, there remain significant unmet challenges
in terms of diagnosis and management.
Having encountered these patients at the clinic at Oxford Eye Hospital,

CHAU Yat Che, Charlene I was able to witness the substantial psychological and economic
burden these diseases pose. Major advances in diagnosis have
The University of Hong Kong been made, and these have been made possible by genetic testing
technologies such as next-generation sequencing. These have paved
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery the way for therapeutic advancements for the purposes of sparing
or restoring vision. The group I was visiting was investigating viral
delivery systems as a means for in vivo ocular gene therapy; that is,
using viruses as vectors to deliver therapeutic nucleic acids through
I was honoured to be awarded the InnoTech transduction.
Scholarship. The COVID-19 pandemic has been
challenging for us all in every aspect of life. I The COVID-19 pandemic has also been a pivotal turning point in
was very grateful to the Scholarship committee healthcare, bringing about many innovative solutions to medicine and
streamlining patient care. Apart from the effort to optimise health
for extending the Scholarship period, allowing
systems against the unprecedented health burden and breakthroughs
us to enjoy what the Scholarship offers in its in the field of vaccinations, there has been a shift to digitalisation. A
entirety. As an aspiring ophthalmologist, I landscape change can be witnessed with a focus on telemedicine
took the opportunity to explore the existing at the clinics. Some ophthalmology departments have experimented
knowledge in the field as well as its newest with telehealth management protocols for hybrid visits for patients
advances and challenges. with inherited retinal diseases. By changing some of the diagnostic
processes to a virtual process, including virtual consent for genetic
testing and the actual testing itself using saliva kits, the continuity of
care during the pandemic was ensured with no difference in patient
satisfaction. Whilst this has not been adopted at the Oxford Eye
Hospital yet, I think this is a promising avenue to explore in the future.
The pandemic has also changed the landscape for medical students
worldwide. The incorporation of telemedicine into the curriculum has
inadvertently developed our digital literacy and our awareness of data
confidentiality and patient safety. Through virtual education, I had the
opportunity to participate in the neuro-ophthalmology conference
held by the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC). The masterclass
included clinical skills transfer sessions, whereby ophthalmology
residents would perform the clinical examination on real patients,
followed by instant feedback on areas for improvement. I was able
to reflect on my own examination techniques and the diagnostic
approach I use to reach the most probable diagnosis.
My attachment at the Moorfields Eye Hospital has also provided

me with key insights into neuro-ophthalmology. The clinicians’ clear
diagnostic approach and critical thinking to narrow down possible
differential diagnoses for each patient has been extremely valuable
as it has been widely recognised as a challenging subspecialty
requiring a multi-disciplinary and comprehensive perspective.
24
Through these clinical experiences, I learnt what it is like to work
in the National Health Service (NHS). Despite having done a few
attachments before I applied to medical school and as a medical
student, gaining more clinical experiences meant that I could
fully appreciate the similarities and differences between the two
healthcare systems. Notably, the differences in the IT systems
demonstrated the importance of technological infrastructure in
determining efficiency, costs, and staff morale. The NHS computer
system, previously dubbed one of the biggest IT failures, has since
improved. However, I noticed that each facet of patient care needs
to be brought up separately, which means more waiting time for the
software to load and is often the cause of much frustration amongst
doctors. In contrast, in Hong Kong these are embedded within one
system with seamless transition between different facets.
Conversely, the NHS has largely digitalised patient care, such as

the use of e-vitals (digitalising the vital signs for each patient) aids in
monitoring and record keeping, whilst Hong Kong still uses a mix of
both paper and digital.
Having worked as a house officer in the Hospital Authority in Hong

Kong for half a year prior to this trip, I also shared my own experiences
working in the Hong Kong public healthcare system. I am of the belief
that such open discourse internationally will expedite discovery and
innovation. We also exchanged research ideas, particularly on the Overall Evaluation
intersection between artificial intelligence and medicine.
The Scholarship has been incredibly rewarding. I hope to further
Service Project Programme apply what I have learnt to my field, doing my part to transform Hong
Kong’s healthcare landscape with passion and innovation.
I gave an interactive workshop to primary school children at the Hong
Kong Science Park. It was titled ‘Windows to the Soul’ which was an
introduction to the visual system. ‘See one, do one, teach one’ is an
old adage that is customary in clinical practice. Whilst familiar to me
from my time as a medical student, this service project was a valuable
opportunity. First, I could interact and share my STEM knowledge
with the younger generation, inspiring brilliant young minds to
pursue relevant fields in the future, which is vital for innovation and
technology. I was surprised by the knowledge these primary school
children possessed. At the start of my session, I asked them to
draw their versions of an eye. Instead of a simplistic cartoon figure,
many children were able to draw a detailed diagrams with accurately
labelled parts, for instance, pupil and iris. Many children also raised
questions which were thought-provoking and demonstrated their
ability to think independently.
Second, I was able to learn from other InnoTech Scholars during

their sessions about the disciplines they are passionate about.
From the inner mechanics of prostheses to the newest advances in
radiotherapy, it was enlightening to exchange scientific ideas with
other inspired individuals. Third, this opportunity allowed me to polish
my own event planning and public speaking skills. Despite having
planned events as part of various committees, my target audience
was typically adults and medical professionals. Having to present
to primary school children, I had to alter my presentation with more
creativity and digestible analogies. As Einstein once said, ‘If you
can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough’. Having
to expound on the anatomy and physiology of the visual system to
children served to further consolidate my knowledge.
25
Artificial Intelligence in Health Care, Massachusetts Institute of

Technology
Coming from a non-technical major, it is hard for me to learn about

artificial intelligence (AI) in a structured way. Experts introduced the
fundamentals of AI and provided examples of how AI could be used in
diagnosis, patient monitoring, and patient care. Professors introduced
how we could acquire sufficient training data to do machine learning
to predict a person’s risk of getting breast cancer. Another eye-
opening experience was the guidance from professors on my mini
AI project. I handed in reports for my project by considering different
perspectives, from data collection to algorithm selection to test and
retest methods. Experts pointed out their concerns and opinions on
my project, which further strengthened my thinking skills.
International Summer School, University of Cambridge
CHEUNG Yin Chi, Meryl

I spent two weeks in the University of Cambridge studying business
and philosophy. Although these courses might seem irrelevant to
technology, the teachers inspired me greatly to generate new ideas
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and reflect on the ethics of using technology in healthcare. One of
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy the most inspiring courses was ‘Creating Innovative Ideas’, taught by
a seasoned entrepreneur Mr Andrew Hatcher. Mr Hatcher introduced
us to his definition of creativity. What impressed me most was that
he said creativity is inside all of us. Yes, we are born with creativity but
I am honoured to be awarded the InnoTech it is discouraged by schooling, so we need courage to resist habitual
thinking. Creativity is a mindset but never a skillset. He then taught
Scholarship 2021. It is far more than financial
us about the creative process of a product or service, which echoes
support; it is a precious tool that enabled me what I witnessed in my internship programme in Rehab-Robotics.
to explore the world and unleash my potential
to contribute to the innovation and technology Another interesting course was ‘Philosophy of Mind: the Nature of
development in Hong Kong. I joined an Conscious Experience’, taught by Dr Jon Phelan. It was my first time
attending a philosophy class! Different theories including dualism,
online course, went on two summer school
materialism, and functionalism were introduced to solve the mind-
programmes in the United Kingdom, took up
body problem. We had a heated debate on whether AI could be
a local internship, and designed a workshop to considered a ‘person’ and whether it should be used in the healthcare
promote occupational therapy and cognitive field extensively. Of course, there was no concrete conclusion. But I
health to primary school students. was provoked to think about the benefits and threats brought by AI:
All these eye-opening experiences have ignited could these machines have consciousness just like humans?
my passion in becoming an occupational

Other than the intellectual stimulation, I had so much fun meeting
therapist to help patients in the front line and people from different backgrounds. I got chances to mingle at the
hopefully benefit people with my innovations in college high table dinner. My buddies and I explored the city together
the future. and tried punting on the river. We also shared great times talking
about our college and work lives.
26
Health Data Science and Data Analytics in Healthcare,
University College London (UCL)
I spent three weeks in UCL to learn programming languages including My mentor, Dr Roy Chung, GBS, JP, is the Co-founder and Non-
Python and SQL to process health data. My group mates and I Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Company Limited. He
worked on a project to build a machine learning algorithm to help eagerly shared his journey to become a distinguished industrialist
diagnose a group of indigenous Indians called PIMA who are prone starting from scratch. He gave me valuable advice on my career plan.
to suffering from diabetes mellitus. We tried on preprocessing the I have always wanted to work in academia in the field of rehabilitation
database, selecting the appropriate supervised models and building or public health. But then he suggested that I work in the field before
our own machine learning pipeline. furthering my studies as work enables young adults to know how big
the world is and understand the possibilities in life.
He encouraged me to expose myself to technology-related topics.

Specialising in clinical skills and knowledge is not enough as the use
of technology is equally essential for the growth of all industries.
He motivated me to join different programming courses using the
Scholarship.
Intern at Rehab-Robotics Company Ltd
I was honoured to begin the internship at Rehab-Robotics mentored

by the CEO and occupational therapist Dr Ben Yip. Rehab-Robotics
is a medical device research and manufacturing company developing Service Project Programme
rehabilitation devices. I assisted in providing training using the device
‘Hand of Hope’, a surface electromyography-driven robotic hand
I held an online workshop about occupational therapy and memory
therapy device for upper-limb stroke rehabilitation.
（你記得幾多——記憶力工作坊）with primary school students. I
introduced different types of memories and memory tricks. It was a
I was also involved in the research and development of a knee brace
challenging yet fun experience to promote my profession and teach
for patients with osteoarthritis. Not only was I required to do extensive
them something related to their occupation. I have learnt to adjust the
literature reviews, but I also needed to discuss the prototype with Dr
course content according to participants’ ages and education level. I
Yip and the engineers. Another highlight was that I was invited to
hope they found my workshop useful.
sit in a meeting testing the prototype of a newly developed orthotic
for patients suffering from neurological problems. I witnessed the
process of trial and error the group experienced before the product Overall Evaluation
was finalised. I was fascinated by how different disciplines work
together to create something new. The Scholarship has been a blessing to me and exposed me to a
greater world that I had never imagined. It has offered me ample
Dr Yip’s passion for innovation in healthcare inspired me a lot. He opportunities to learn about data science and how it could help
shared his journey in innovation and encouraged me with his life to improve rehabilitation services. The enthusiastic experts and
motto ‘Successful people believe before they can see the result’. I classmates I encountered have enlightened me and helped better
am ready to equip myself with more medical knowledge and then to equip me to become an innovative occupational therapist.
embark on my own innovation journey.
The Scholarship is the start of my innovation journey. I wish to further
enhance my studies in health data science and contribute to make
rehabilitation more effective to users. I am looking forward to being
an innovator to make patients’ lives more functional and meaningful.
I would like to express my gratitude to Professor Kenneth Fong and
Dr Yvonne Han for their support throughout the Scholarship period.
27
Center for Astrophysics (CFA), Harvard & Smithsonian
I spent my 2021 summer working on a radio spectroscopy project

with Dr Nimesh Patel from the CFA. Unfortunately, as COVID-19 hit,
I had to stay in Hong Kong during the whole programme period. Still,
this online research experience was not diminished by my not being
physically present at the CFA. I developed a computer programme
to calculate the Doppler corrections for spectral line frequencies of
radio sources within the Milky Way galaxy. The programme now
helps observers quickly identify the ‘correct’ spectral line in their
observations for further analysis.
I also had the opportunity to remotely control the Greenland Telescope

(GLT) for observations. I helped calibrate the GLT and made spectral
line measurements. I still vividly remember the thrill of sitting in my
living room at 5 am, pushing a few buttons on my keyboard, and
seeing the giant telescope moving under my command through the
CHOI On To, Sonja real-time camera. It was truly an eye-opening experience.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong Dr Patel walked me through the thinking process of people who came
up with brilliant experiments despite being limited by technology. For
Bachelor of Science in Physics example, people used the concept of coherent waves to determine
(Enrichment Stream in Theoretical Physics) the size of a star, back when advanced telescopes with high resolution
were not technologically possible.
In terms of personal growth, I have become more independent in

The InnoTech Scholarship has opened me up to acquiring knowledge. I cherished this opportunity to work with
someone so experienced in observations and instruments, so I
many valuable learning opportunities where I
made myself rethink the science we discussed after our meetings,
collaborated with the world’s leading scientists
and asked questions whenever possible. I also tried hard to fill my
and participated in research projects that pushed knowledge gaps to keep up with my supervisor while working with
the boundaries of science and technology. him.
Through the Service Project Programme, I
shared my knowledge and passion for science
with the public and gave back to society.
28
The University of Arizona
I worked with Dr Chad Bender at The University of Arizona (the UA)
for six months on prototyping the Large Fiber Array Spectroscopic I chose astrophysics as the topic for my workshop. While preparing
Telescope (LFAST). It is an array of small telescope mirrors that can for my talk, I started to regret it—many of the concepts involved
be mass-produced at a much lower cost than existing telescopes are too abstract for primary school children. But then I recalled the
of similar ability. One of the scientific goals of LFAST is to study famous quote by Einstein: ‘If you can’t explain it simply, then you
the atmospheres of exoplanets, which are planets outside our solar don’t understand it well enough.’ Perhaps out of the determination
system. Studying the chemical composition of their atmospheres to uphold my pride as a black hole researcher, I decided to stick to
reveals the planets’ evolutionary processes and enhances our this topic. I read up on designing experiments to visualise scientific
understanding of the physics behind the formation of stellar objects. concepts and learnt to explain them in a language my younger
audience would understand.
My work focused on the fabrication of optical fibres. The core of
the fibres is made out of glass with a radius much smaller than that During the workshop, I first introduced the history of astronomy and
of a piece of human hair, posing a considerable challenge to the the tools that scientists use to observe distant objects in the universe.
fabrication process. During the assembly and polishing, factors such I explained the physics behind launching a rocket with an experiment
as pressure, stress, abrasive grit size, etc. all come into play and of a rocket propelled by a deflating balloon. Lastly, I explained how a
affect how light is transmitted through the fibre. My research aimed black hole is formed while showing how my simple black hole model
to create a fabrication recipe so that the LFAST optical system can expanded and contracted due to internal and external forces. The
have minimal light loss. students jotted down the procedures for the experiment and told me
they were very excited to try it at home. All the time and effort I spent
I also learnt that only being good at research is insufficient for a designing these experiments were worth it.
successful career in science—I must also know how to market my
work. I got to attend the progress meeting with representatives During the Q&A session, the questions they asked showed that
from our funding organisation. I saw how a science project can be they could keep up with my teaching and grasp the main idea behind
presented to business people with minimal technical details while the complicated theories. It gave me a huge sense of achievement.
still interesting them with the scientific potential of our telescope. I could also tell that this was not the first time that some of them
While reading through our proposal, I learnt how to draw a realistic had learnt about black holes—they asked questions about advanced
timeline and propose a reasonable budget for a project. topics like General Relativity. I could see their enthusiasm for
astrophysics research. I cannot wait for these young, brilliant minds
The United States has a mature STEM industry with state-of-the- to grow up and contribute to the Hong Kong science field.
art infrastructure to support scientific research and technology
commercialisation. For example, The UA Tech Park is located around Overall Evaluation
15 miles away from the campus. It has tech offices, laboratory
facilities, and conference rooms where lots of R&D and industrial- I am grateful to have met two motivating supervisors during my
scale manufacturing take place, including our telescope assembly attachment programmes, who inspired me and have been very
and mirror measurements. The close connection between industry supportive of my research. Dr Patel introduced me to the world of
and academia is crucial to the sustainable development of technology. instrumentation, and I put my knowledge into practice while working
on Dr Bender’s telescope project. These experiences have broadened
Mentorship Programme my horizons and significantly impacted my future research direction.
My mentor, Professor Djurisic, has given me useful advice on treading
My mentor is Professor Aleksandra Djurisic from the Department of the academic career path. I would like to thank the benefactors of the
Physics at The University of Hong Kong. She is an experimentalist Scholarship for supporting my overseas research and the Secretariat,
in nanomaterials and energy. Professor Djurisic talked a lot about who was very helpful during my preparation of the service project.
her academic experience, such as selecting research topics and
looking for a faculty position. She also shared with me the hurdles
that an experimentalist encounters, including setting up a lab from
scratch, interpreting unexpected experimental results, hiring the right
graduate students to work with, and writing proposals for funding. I
was having a hard time making graduate school decision back then.
She helped me revise my education plans and encouraged me to be
ambitious.
29
Genomics is a relatively new discipline which developed into its

current form around 20 years ago, during the creation of the first-
ever sequenced human genome through the Human Genome
Project. The analysis and interpretation of genomic data is one of the
central foci of bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary field that requires
proficiency in both computer science and biology. However, there
is currently a severe lack of medical professionals who can bridge
the gap between bioinformaticians (who analyse genomics data) and
clinicians (who can potentially use the analysed results for improving
patient outcomes), especially in Hong Kong.
As a medical student with an interest in oncology, I enrolled in a

master’s degree in genomics and precision medicine at UCL to
learn the skills essential for a solid foundation in cancer genomics
research. Throughout my master’s degree, I equipped myself with
many skills, including designing and performing genetic experiments,
implementing machine learning algorithms, and creating programmes
CHOW Bak Yue, Matthew that could handle many gigabytes of genomic data. My prior medical
training mainly revolved around human physiology and disease, so
The University of Hong Kong being exposed to the computational side of biology was a completely
different experience that really broadened my horizons. Learning
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery simultaneously about bioinformatics and its far-reaching implications
in medicine was really fascinating and piqued my interest in
computational genomics research.
In 2021, I was blessed to be one of the

25 awardees of the prestigious InnoTech
Scholarship. With the support of the
Scholarship, I set out for the United Kingdom
(the UK) to undertake a one-year master’s
degree in University College London (UCL)
in the fields of genomics and precision
medicine. These disciplines are becoming
increasingly important in biomedicine,
with applications ranging from cancer
detection to drug design. The UK is a global
powerhouse in genomics research, and UCL
I was very fortunate to be accepted as a visiting researcher by
in particular has strong collaborations with Professor Charles Swanton at The Francis Crick Institute, the
leading institutions in genomics such as the largest biomedical laboratory in Europe. The Swanton Lab has won
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, numerous accolades for their groundbreaking work in tracking the
The Francis Crick Institute, and the EMBL evolution of cancer, most notably via the decade-long TRACERx
European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL- study. With the kind guidance of Professor Swanton and his lab, I
was able to kickstart a project based on TRACERx for my master’s
EBI). I am very thankful to the Scholarship
dissertation. I am very thankful to him and his team for giving me
for granting me this chance to learn from guidance throughout my project.
pioneers of genomics research in the UK.
30
My experience throughout my master’s degree and research
attachment was nothing short of eye-opening. I am really grateful that
I was able to undertake my master’s degree and research project in
person rather than online. Not only have I been able to experience the The Scholarship also gave me the opportunity to organise a workshop
culture of a different city, but I was also able to forge friendships with aimed at sharing knowledge with primary school students in a fun
my colleagues and network with many other like-minded scientists. and engaging manner. I decided to teach my students the exciting
My year abroad has bolstered my wish to follow in their footsteps and science underlying my master’s degree: genetics.
conduct research alongside my future clinical duties.
Since genetics is typically taught at rather senior levels (usually in the
secondary school biology curriculum), I had to think of simple and
creative ways to engage children and stimulate their interest in the
topic. I decided to borrow the concepts of Mendelian inheritance in
humans to create an interesting workshop called ‘Alien Genetics’ （
遺傳大揭秘——外星人也有基因？！） Even though the fifth wave of
COVID-19 in Hong Kong meant the workshop could only be held via
Zoom, it attracted more than 50 participants. Many of them asked
inspiring questions not just about the content of the workshop, but
also about careers in biology and medicine. It felt truly amazing to
know that I could be playing a part in shaping the future of bright
young minds and inspiring them to pursue careers in biomedicine.
Ever since my time tutoring students in high school, I have been
interested in educating our future generations, and this service
project really consolidated this interest. One day, I hope to join the
ranks of the teachers and professors I have always admired and pass
on the light of knowledge to future generations.
Aside from overseas experiences, the InnoTech Scholarship also

provides invaluable opportunities in the form of connections with
experienced mentors who are well-established in their respective
fields. My mentor, Professor Philip Chiu, is a renowned academic
surgeon in Hong Kong known for pioneering advances in robotic
surgery. Professor Chiu was kind enough to share with me his
experiences in performing robotic surgery and how he worked with
the robot manufacturers to make improvements to their design and
functionality. He invited me to tour his robotic design workshops and
showed me how he experiments with surgical techniques. He also
shared with me valuable career advice and walked me through the Overall Evaluation
career crossroads I would face in the future.
This has been a truly inspiring and life-changing year for me, both as a
I am really grateful to Professor Chiu for taking time out of his busy future clinician-scientist and as a person. I have experienced growth
schedule to meet me in person and share with me his pearls of far beyond my comfort zones and into new, exciting territories. I
wisdom. He is a truly inspirational clinician-scientist, and I aspire to have not only gained valuable new skills in laboratory work and
do for my future patients and mentees what he has done for us—to computational biology, but also connected with and befriended a
spearhead innovation and technology in Hong Kong and shed light diverse group of amazing peers and mentors. I have always wanted
upon the unknown depths of medical science. opportunities to learn from top scientists in Hong Kong and overseas,
and I am so grateful to the Scholarship for making my dream come
true. I hope that young children interested in this field will also enjoy
the opportunities provided by my beloved city and become the future
leaders of Hong Kong’s scientific landscape.
31
St Paul’s Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, NHS

Foundation Trust
The most memorable part of my Scholarship experience was the

month-long clinical and research attachment at St Paul’s Eye Unit in the
Royal Liverpool University Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust.
In the clinical realm, I was mainly immersed in the vitreoretinal team that
dealt with the posterior part of the eye. I observed a variety of intriguing
clinical cases, including macular hole, retinal detachment, and posterior
vitreous detachment. Following patients through their medical journey, I
felt appreciative of ophthalmologists’ efforts in restoring patients’ vision.
Every ‘thank you’ was truly rewarding. Diagnosis-wise, the attachment
also offered hands-on experiences with various ophthalmological
equipment essential for reaching a definitive diagnosis, representing a
fascinating glimpse into the eye’s intricacies.
CHU Wang Yee, Allan The first vitrectomy surgery I observed left a deep impression on
me. Looking through the surgical microscope, the view of a partially
The University of Hong Kong floating detached retina mesmerised me. The essence of vitrectomy
lies within its highly meticulous procedures requiring accurate depth
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery perception. Other surgeries I observed include Descemet's membrane
endothelial keratoplasty, phacoemulsification, and on a rare occasion,
Boston keratoprosthesis—an artificial cornea for transplantation. I even
assisted in an enucleation surgery, which was truly empowering.
The InnoTech Scholarship has been an
instrumental catalyst in my academic journey. Liverpool offered an enlightening perspective on work-life balance. I
I attended several international conferences in have realised that life extends beyond academics. Despite academic
success, life becomes less fulfilling should one not choose to enjoy
ophthalmology, immersing myself in a global
it. The local people are very open-minded, demonstrating a deep
community of medical professionals and
appreciation for life's pleasures.
leaders. I would like to thank the Innovation
and Technology Commission of the HKSAR As I continue my journey in medicine, I aspire to embrace the joy of
Government, The Hongkong and Shanghai learning and the pursuit of academic excellence without losing sight of
Banking Corporation Limited and The Hong the importance of personal fulfilment and enjoyment.
Kong Federation of Youth Groups for the

endowment, which enabled me to gain first-
hand insights in ophthalmology.
International conferences in ophthalmology
Participating in international conferences in ophthalmology

significantly broadened my medical knowledge and hands-on skills.
38th Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress
Held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in February 2023, the 38th APAO

Congress was a hub of intellectual exchange, attracting over 4,000
participants from 78 countries. Guided by my research supervisor Dr
Shih, my knowledge in ophthalmology has certainly been enhanced.
I engaged in interesting academic conversations with a group of
trainees from Singapore, exploring the differences in our public
32
health systems and interests in various sub-specialties. Meanwhile, Through our conversations, Dr Chan took an optimistic perspective
I attempted my first pars plana vitrectomy on an artificial eye, an on challenges in life. When dealing with failures, it is important not
invaluable opportunity to practise surgical skills. It was challenging to regard them as the termination of your advancement. Rather, Dr
to manipulate the probes bimanually within the eye’s interior, tracing Chan advised me to always have a final goal in mind, not to be overly
along retina’s curvature. These sessions underscored the meticulous bothered by the inevitable ups and downs on the journey to success.
nature of ophthalmic surgeries, serving as a reminder that a surgeon’s Much like the ‘my cup is half full, not half empty’ perspective, the
steady hand and focused mind are as crucial as their theoretical optimism elicited would aid in the perpetual pursuit for academic
knowledge. merits and goals in life.
Inspired by Dr Chan’s advice, I aspire to utilise innovation to make

a meaningful impact in our society. Be it building an academic
knowledge base or pursuing other endeavours, I aim to foster the
spirit of curiosity, dedication, and innovation that Dr Chan embodies.
My service project delved into the topic of mental health amongst

the youth. Recent studies have highlighted the increasing prevalence
of mental health issues in teenagers. In this context, I incorporated
a range of activities, including breathing exercises and craft making,
to actively promote mental well-being and stress management
techniques.
The students each created a ‘mood octopus’ that changed its

34th Asia-Pacific Association of Cataract and Refractive facial expressions when you twisted an outer paper cup, revealing
Surgeons (APACRS) Annual Meeting different emotions on the inner cup. The primary objective was to aid
the proactive expression of students’ feelings via a simple gesture,
The 34th APACRS Annual Meeting was held during June 2022 in peeking into their inner mentality. It was a pleasure teaching mental
Seoul, South Korea. Similar to the APAO conference, I showcased well-being and seeing students’ smiling faces throughout the course.
my research results in front of an international audience, contributing
to the global conversation on ophthalmology. During the conference, Overall Evaluation
I joined a discussion on the treatment options for corneal fibrosis
with a professor from South Korea. The pharmaceutical treatment This Scholarship has significantly influenced my educational journey.
includes mitomycin-C in South Korea, which overlaps with that of I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has
Hong Kong. This illustrated the universality of medicine and affirmed contributed to the Scholarship’s success. Innovation and technology
that innovations benefit patients worldwide. Another highlight was have become pivotal as societies rapidly evolve. They are the keys to
attempting my first simulated cataract surgery, inserting an intraocular progress and solutions to the challenges of our time. This is especially
lens into the eye. I was pleasantly surprised as I successfully inserted exemplified in ophthalmology, where the power of innovation has
the artificial lens on my first attempt. Serving as an encouragement, enhanced patient care and improved surgical outcomes. These
this rewarding experience further fuelled my motivation to continually experiences have been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations
hone my surgical skills. and have deepened my commitment to being part of this exciting
evolution in healthcare.
Dr Helen Chan, Director of Vita Green Ltd, was my mentor under

the Scholarship programme. Her perspectives on progress, success,
and interdisciplinarity have inspired me in my academic work and life.
33
Business Tour to Switzerland
I had the honour of attending a medical seminar and observing

company expansion in Switzerland as a research assistant for Koln
3D. Switzerland is a wealthy nation recognised for its engineering
technology, watch industry, pharmaceutical industry and financial
industry. I had never been in a formal business atmosphere before,
so the trip was an eye-opening experience. As a research assistant,
I helped with organising the logistics of the medical seminar and
welcoming guest speakers. The first several days were spent
mingling with speakers, creating a platform for cross-cultural
dialogue and getting ready for business and product presentations.
This was my first time assisting in academic seminars instead of
participating in one, which helped me to realise the importance of
effective communications in serving speakers from around the world
and to admire their cultural differences.
CHUI Siu Wa, Zara The second part of the trip comprised networking and commercial
negotiations, which involved resolving fiscal and legal concerns.
The University of Hong Kong I also visited nearby colleges, universities and hospitals to explore
prospects for collaboration and to make intellectual connections. The
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences first meeting with a renowned orthopaedic surgeon was stressful
but rewarding as I introduced the business and went through the
benefits of our orthopaedic products. The conclusion was positive
and I gained confidence in my ability to persuade them by addressing
The InnoTech Scholarship provided me their current problems. It was also essential to carefully consider
opportunities to connect with scientists and our industry rivals to stand out from the pack and win over clients.
entrepreneurs as well as to travel overseas. Overall, the experience I gained on the business trip allowed me
to have a glimpse of the diversified aspects that a company has to
The Scholarship allowed me to participate
consider during expansion.
in a medical seminar in Switzerland and a
lab internship in the United Kingdom. I also
spent a summer in a start-up to gain industry
experience. These experiences allowed me to
refine my prospect and brighten up my way to
pursue my dream as a scientist.
Lab Attachment in the University of Cambridge
I joined the Biointerface lab to create an artificial wound model using

3D bioprinting to demonstrate the application of a deployable pH-
sensing fibre. The wound model was proposed as a tool to validate
the in vitro application of the deployable pH-sensing fibre. The first
two weeks were spent working independently on academic projects,
developing the deployable pH-sensing fibre and using a custom-built
3D printer to produce hydrogels.
The group’s focus on designing fibres for biological applications

taught me to be creative and approach challenges from many angles.
For example, the team has been attempting to employ fibres, which
can be formed into webs and intricate meshes, as a medium to
facilitate neuron attachment.
34
While the educational system frequently teaches pupils to
be knowledge acceptors, in real research settings, scientists
welcome doubts and difficulties. Even as a newcomer, the team
acknowledged and accepted my feedback and queries beyond my I was fortunate to learn from Dr Tsui Lap-Chee, a renowned
project. In academics as in any industry, encouraging the sharing of geneticist, who shared his story of discovering the cystic fibrosis
ideas is crucial because productive debates help initiatives proceed transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene that causes
effectively. cystic fibrosis (CF). He was given a “C” grade when he first proposed
the mechanism of gene discovery to his professor, who thought it
Last but not least, the University of Cambridge, one of the oldest was infeasible. Dr Tsui was not discouraged by the comment but
and most renowned universities in the world, provided me with an continued to research, which led to his success in discovering the
unforgettable experience in terms of academic research as well as causative gene of CF. He encouraged me to dare to be different
travel. I was very appreciative to have a lab partner who took me to a and use novel perspectives when approaching problems, especially
formal dinner, which is a Cambridge University tradition, and showed while I am young and with little to lose.
me around several colleges. Additionally, the research team set up
punting games for me. Overall, Cambridge is a peaceful riverside
city that I will never forget, in addition to being the location of the
prestigious University of Cambridge.

As teaching and learning had moved online due to the pandemic, I
During the summer of 2020, I joined Koln 3D, a biotech start-up delivered an experiential talk about marine science and reservation
specialising in manufacturing custom 3D-printed metal orthopaedic to promote STEM in primary school students. The students were
devices. This six-week research internship allowed me to experience passionate about science, and with suitable resources, I believe
the industry and observe the operation of a small-scale company. Hong Kong can become the nurturing ground of science talents as
Koln 3D has adopted a flat hierarchy, allowing employees to express well as a technological hub.
their thoughts and receive numerous opportunities to conduct
projects according to their interests, fostering a sense of belonging Overall Evaluation
among employees.
I am very grateful for the Scholarship, which allowed me to engage
After the internship, I worked as a part-time assistant and was allowed with top-notch scientists, entrepreneurs, and scholars both locally and
to travel to Switzerland under the InnoTech Scholarship. This unique internationally. I have learnt different skills not only from an academic
management style attracts fresh graduates and retains specialists, perspective, but also in non-academic areas such as goal setting, life
making it a good model for entrepreneurship. The company planning, business negotiation, and social skills. The network I have
demonstrated cross-disciplinary cooperation by transitioning from built through the Scholarship will be a life-long treasure for me.
selling customised metal moulds to medical implants, which is the
goal of engineering and medical research.
The internship encouraged me to discover novel applications of

different technologies and to be open-minded about all opportunities.
It also reminded me of the unlimited possibilities of basic science and
encouraged me to be open-minded about all opportunities and to
boldly walk into the unknown.
35
My attachment programme in Singapore encompassed two

academically enriching semesters, during which I had the privilege
of working closely with Professor Ling Shuo-chien, an accomplished
professor specialising in neurodegenerative research. My primary
research endeavour aimed to unravel the intricate mechanisms
underlying the impact of TDP-43 loss on hippocampal developmental
defects. Collaborating zealously with a dedicated PhD student in the
lab, I embarked on this intriguing journey of scientific exploration.
Prior to starting my attachment programme, I had meticulously set

specific learning objectives. Beyond the acquisition of academic
knowledge, I aspired to immerse myself in the full-time research
environment. Recognising the arduous nature of research, my aim
was to not only develop essential hands-on skills but also to gain
insights into the broader aspects of research culture, its pacing, and
the pivotal decision of selecting the right research topic. Additionally,
I sought to contemplate whether a PhD was the next step in my
HO Chun Wa, Edwin academic journey.
Memorable Preparation Experiences

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences The preparation phase for my attachment was an integral part of my
transformative journey. It encompassed not only logistical elements
such as arranging accommodations, securing research funding and
obtaining necessary permits but also the emotional and intellectual
I am delighted to share my immersive experience preparation. As a student contemplating a research programme, I
as a recipient of the InnoTech Scholarship, needed to meticulously consider various factors beyond academics.
This included acclimatising to the research culture, understanding the
highlighting my research journey during the
rhythm of life in a foreign country, making judicious choices regarding
attachment programme in Singapore. This
research topics, and navigating the uncertainties exacerbated by the
exceptional opportunity enabled me to explore COVID-19 pandemic.
my passion for biomedical research at the
prestigious Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine,
National University of Singapore, under the
guidance of Professor Ling Shuo-chien.
36
Institution and City Overview
The National University of Singapore (NUS), a renowned institution

celebrated for its pioneering research and innovation, provided an My mentor, Professor Nancy Ip, is an eminent figure in the field of
ideal backdrop for my academic and research pursuits. Nestled in neuroscience and holds the distinguished positions of President of
the dynamic city-state of Singapore, NUS was not just an academic The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and
institution but an embodiment of Singapore’s commitment to Director of the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience at
technological advancement. The city itself emanated a rich HKUST.
multicultural atmosphere, boasting advanced infrastructure, and
stood as a paragon of a city committed to progress. The mentorship provided by Professor Ip was invaluable in shaping
my academic and career aspirations. During our interactions, she
Lessons from the Attachment Programme offered guidance and advice without compromising her privacy. I
shared my research interests and prior experiences with her, sparking
One profound insight from my attachment programme revolves around insightful conversations that left a lasting impact on my trajectory.
the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration. My experiences were
enriched by meaningful interactions with researchers hailing from One of the key dilemmas I faced was the decision of whether to
diverse backgrounds. This exposure underscored the critical role played pursue a PhD abroad, particularly in the United States, where the
by interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex research questions. duration of doctoral programmes tends to be longer, often exceeding
I witnessed firsthand the transformative potential that collaborative six years. Professor Ip shared her own journey and experience,
ventures between experts in fields as distinct as biomedical shedding light on the challenges and rewards of a PhD in a foreign
engineering and neuroscience could yield. Such partnerships were country. Her advice and personal anecdotes encouraged me to
invaluable in deciphering intricate RNA sequencing data and shedding consider the research attachment abroad as a viable option, especially
light on the intricacies of our research. This experience cemented my with the financial support provided by the InnoTech Scholarship. This
understanding that effective communication and cooperation across guidance played a pivotal role in my decision-making process and
disciplines are integral to the triumph of research, offering novel provided the necessary reassurance to embark on this transformative
perspectives and innovative solutions that may remain elusive within academic journey.
the confines of a single academic silo.
Communication emerged as yet another pivotal lesson from my

overseas attachment programme. My participation in a PhD pitching
event was nothing short of revelatory. It underscored the paramount
importance of possessing effective presentation skills and the
ability to succinctly convey intricate research in an engaging and
comprehensible manner. These skills, I realised, are indispensable in
my future career as a scientist. As I embark on this path, I understand
that the capacity to communicate research findings effectively to both
a specialised audience and a broader spectrum of stakeholders is not
merely an ancillary skill but a pivotal aspect of my role. It is through
this communication that the potential impact of our work is amplified,
fostering collaboration and driving innovation.
Fruitful Overseas Experience
My sojourn in Singapore was not merely a journey of academic

enrichment but also an emotionally fulfilling experience. Beyond the Overall Evaluation
confines of the laboratory, I had the privilege of forging profound
connections with my labmates in Professor Ling’s lab. Our bonds The InnoTech Scholarship has been an immensely beneficial
transcended research; they encompassed shared life experiences, experience in my academic and personal journey. The Scholarship
cultural exchange and genuine camaraderie. Hiking became a shared provided me with the remarkable opportunity to expand my horizons
passion, and we explored the picturesque landscapes of Singapore and broaden my intellectual and research capabilities. By funding
together. These excursions not only provided a welcome respite from my research attachment at NUS, I was exposed to a world-class
our research-intensive routines but also fostered a sense of unity research environment and had the privilege of working alongside
within our team. distinguished researchers in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
This immersive experience allowed me to acquire a wealth of practical
research skills, ranging from laboratory techniques to interdisciplinary
collaboration and effective communication. These skills have not
only deepened my understanding of biomedical research but have
also empowered me to contribute meaningfully to the scientific
community.
37
Green Summit at the United Nations Economics and Social

Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP)
My highlight of this Scholarship was participating in the Green

Summit in December 2022 as a delegate representing Hong Kong.
This Summit was hosted at the UNESCAP centre in Thailand. It was
so powerful to witness 157 passionate youth delegates, representing
31 different countries, gathered with the common vision of driving
climate action for a better future in our own cities and globally. This
Summit enabled us to gain knowledge from expert speakers,
such as the Director of Environment and Development Division of
UNESCAP, the Communications Officer from the UN Department of
Global Communications, the Director for Education and Skills of the
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the
founders of plant-based companies, and more.
LAM Rainbow Yi Hung

The Hong Kong University of Science and
Technology
Bachelor of Science in Environmental
Management and Technology
I am deeply honoured to have been awarded

the InnoTech Scholarship back in 2021. This
Scholarship has given me the opportunities
to explore different aspects of sustainability Green Day Activity: Planting Mangroves
innovations through attending the United
Nations (UN) Green Summit and learning The most memorable part of this Summit was the Green Day
activity, where we planted 300 mangroves. Mangroves play a crucial
about Shenzhen’s innovation and technology.
role in coastal ecosystems, acting as natural buffers against storms,
Besides gaining knowledge and skills, I was
supporting biodiversity, and sequestering carbon. Unfortunately, only
grateful the Scholarship offered me a chance 50-60% of the mangroves we planted will survive due to environmental
to invest in the younger generation through conditions. This realisation highlighted the need to empower the local
hosting a renewable energy workshop during community in mangrove care. Thankfully, the locals in the area are
the challenging times of the pandemic. already experts in taking care of mangroves, and I am inspired by their
dedication to care for their community through nature-based solutions
even if it takes 7 years for the mangroves to grow.
38
Climate Justice During my internship, I gained insights into the importance of data
analytics and visualisation in driving consumer behaviour change.
The Summit emphasised climate justice. Climate justice is the idea of However, I witnessed how building public trust in new technologies
ensuring representation and inclusion of those who are vulnerable to or solutions is crucial for its success. To increase usage of HKUST
climate change, such as indigenous peoples and people living below dispensers with personal water bottles, I analysed data and proposed
the poverty line within each country, when we assess climate change evidence-based solutions to enhance user incentives. This internship
impacts and discuss the solutions. Data on climate change impacts is experience has influenced my approach to research projects,
lacking in developing countries, making collaboration crucial for sharing where I now apply design thinking to understand target audiences'
knowledge, resources, and funding. For instance, Singapore importing motivations and incentives for adopting innovative solutions, such as
hydropower from Laos benefits both countries economically, promotes renewable energy usage and disaster risk management collaboration
renewable energy and strengthens cross-border relations. Hong Kong in Hong Kong.
can explore opportunities for inter-city, inter-country, and inter-regional
collaboration in disaster resilience and green technology knowledge Mentorship Programme
sharing, aligning with the pursuit of climate justice and the agenda of
HKCAP 2030+.
In 2021, I had the privilege of being mentored by Professor Daniel
Mainland Attachment Programme Cheng from Dunwell Enviro-Tech (Holdings) Ltd. He graciously invited
Exploring Innovation and Sustainability: Lessons from me to attend Dunwell's workshop on liquid waste management,
Shenzhen broadening my exposure to the field of sustainability. At the
workshop, I learnt about Dunwell's vibrating membrane system
In March 2023, I participated in a visit to Shenzhen organised by the (VMAT) for recycling waste oil, addressing a significant global issue.
InnoTech Scholarship. This trip provided a unique opportunity to explore This innovative system has led to more efficient wastewater and
the intersection of technology, sustainability, and social initiatives. waste treatment, with the potential for regenerated materials to be
Visiting the BYD headquarters, I witnessed their ambitious efforts reused. Through my mentor, I was reminded that fostering innovation
to phase out production of fuel-engine vehicles and build the world's requires us to view sustainability issues as interconnected systems.
first zero-carbon headquarters. A highlight of the visit was riding
the innovative Cloud Bus, which showcased the potential of electric Service Project Programme
vehicles in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener future
in urbanised regions. This sustainable technology could potentially be
Despite COVID-19 restrictions, the InnoTech Scholarship allowed
deployed in Hong Kong to improve urban infrastructure and benefit
me to host a virtual workshop on sustainability, focusing on wind
society.
energy. Upper primary school students eagerly participated and
showed prior knowledge of sustainability. The workshop aimed to
raise awareness, teach about environmental impact, and showcase
sustainable technologies. Students learnt to differentiate renewable
and non-renewable resources, highlighting Precious Plastic's
innovative recycling machines that turn waste into valuable products.
The final section centred on wind energy, including building wind
turbine models at home. I’m grateful I was able to spark the younger
generation’s curiosity and encourage them to play a part in Hong
Kong’s sustainability development.
Overall Evaluation
Receiving the InnoTech Scholarship has truly been a transformative
experience, equipping me with the tools and inspiration necessary to
In 2021, I interned at Urban Spring, a company focused on reducing
make a meaningful impact in the realm of sustainability innovation.
plastic waste in Hong Kong, specifically single-use plastic bottles,
Through these experiences, I have found my passion in wanting
through providing accessible water stations. I worked on an IoT
to pursue further studies and work in the disaster resilience field,
project in collaboration with the Sustainable Smart Campus (SSC)
with the hope of pushing forth collaboration between Hong Kong
of HKUST. My main role was to brainstorm and co-create innovative
and other Asian cities to find innovative solutions to become more
solutions to encourage students to bring their own water bottles and
disaster resilient. This Scholarship definitely served as a catalyst for
use Urban Spring's smart water dispensers on campus.
my personal growth, and I look forward to contributing positively
towards Hong Kong and our global community in the near future.
39
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University, USA
With the generous support of the Scholarship, I embarked on a two-

month research internship at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory
at Columbia University. I had the invaluable opportunity to work with
renowned tropical cyclone researcher, Professor Suzana J. Camargo,
as well as other scientists.
During the internship, I analysed the forecasts of tropical cyclones in

the Subseasonal-to-Seasonal prediction project (S2S) models. This
project was a new challenge to me as I had never worked with S2S
datasets, and I experienced many difficulties and setbacks during
the project. Fortunately, with the kind help and guidance of my
supervisors, I was able to solve the problems one by one. Throughout
my time at Lamont, I had the precious opportunity to present and
discuss my work with my supervisors and fellow scientists. These
discussions not only helped my project progress but also taught me
LAU King Heng, King how to better communicate my work to other researchers.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong I also took part in academic seminars held at Lamont, where leading
atmospheric scientists from diverse fields of research came to share
Bachelor of Science in Earth System Science their latest work and insights. I met researchers from different parts
of the world and established long-lasting friendships with some of
them. Through conversations with postgraduate students, I was able
to make my own decisions in postgraduate education with greater
It is an honour to be an InnoTech Scholar. confidence and had clearer expectations of the pathway to becoming
Without the Scholarship, I would never a tropical cyclone researcher.
have imagined that I could travel to so many
places in the world for various once-in-a-
lifetime experiences without worrying about
my finances. The Scholarship also provided
me with the invaluable opportunity to meet
other talented awardees in the innovation and
technology field. Their stories and words have
been a source of inspiration and encouragement
to me and have strengthened my determination
and confidence in the pursuit of my passion.
40
Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 19th Annual Meeting,
Singapore (Virtual)
The Scholarship enabled me to participate in the Asia Oceania It has been a great privilege to have Mr Chiu Ying Lam, former
Geosciences Society (AOGS) 19th Annual Meeting. In the final year Director of the Hong Kong Observatory, to be my mentor in the
of my undergraduate study at The Chinese University of Hong Kong Mentorship Programme. We chatted about two seemingly distant
(CUHK), I carried out a research project on the eyewall evolution of topics: what sustains the success of a company, and why modern
Super Typhoon Mangkhut, one of the strongest tropical cyclones to humans are harming the environment. To the first question, Mr
ever strike Hong Kong. Interestingly, an unusual eyewall evolution Lam argued that ‘profit sharing’ is crucial to business sustainability.
occurred when Mangkhut crossed Luzon Island. Under the guidance This gave me the inspiration that, analogous to how self-interested
of Professor Chi-Yung Tam at CUHK and Professor Chun-Chieh Wu companies eventually lose their market, humans are threatening their
at the National Taiwan University, I successfully reproduced the survival by leveraging all they can from nature without ‘giving back’.
observed evolution in a numerical model and confirmed that the Being an aspiring climate scientist myself, Mr Lam’s attitude towards
unusual eyewall replacement was triggered by the presence of the environmental conservation is particularly inspiring—if what you do
landmass of Luzon Island. is fuelled by love, disappointment and hopelessness have no place at
all. This is an attitude I shall strive to attain.
The AOGS meeting was a unique opportunity to present my results
to the science community, as well as to experience what it is like to Chatting with Mr Lam has truly been a source of inspiration, and has
be a research scientist. My submission was accepted, and I went on given me new perspectives on tackling environmental problems. His
to prepare the poster, repeatedly rehearsed my presentation and took words have been and will continue to be a reminder for me to follow
part in mock Q&A sessions to prepare myself for the conference. My my passion.
hard work finally paid off at the meeting, where I was able to answer
the questions raised by the audience with confidence. Service Project Programme
I held an online workshop on cloud appreciation with local primary

school students. The sky is the canvas of nature, with ever-changing
artworks on display. That is why I was motivated to organise a
workshop that promotes the beauty of the sky.
I introduced the 10 genera of clouds with interactive activities during

the workshop to facilitate the students’ understanding of the course
materials. They were invited to apply what they learnt in the workshop
by trying to name the cloud genera in the photos they had taken. In
the final part of the workshop, a quiz game was devised using the
Kahoot! online platform. Generally, students participated actively in
the quiz game, and most of them performed well on the quiz.
It is unavoidable that there are limitations and disadvantages to

online workshops. For example, some of the participants had
National Centre for Atmospheric Science, the United Kingdom
unstable internet connections, especially during the quiz game. On
the bright side, the choice of using Zoom and Kahoot! as platforms
I am very fortunate to have been able to participate in the “Introduction
for the workshop was an appropriate one, and participants generally
to Atmospheric Science” training course at the National Centre
encountered no problem with using either platform.
for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) Headquarters at the University
of Leeds. I was immediately attracted to the course as each topic
covered in the course is introduced by different atmospheric Overall Evaluation
scientists. The course provided a unique opportunity to communicate
directly with leading scientists in various fields of research. I am forever grateful to the many donors to the Scholarship, whose
kindness has greatly broadened my horizon. I must also reiterate my
Broad topics of atmospheric science were covered in the course, sincere gratitude to the Scholarship Secretariats, Mr Benny Cheng,
each coupled with an activity session. Through these activities, I had Ms Ruby Au, and Ms Ally Wong for their untiring support to Scholars
the opportunity to work with and exchange views with my fellow in planning their overseas programmes as well as local service
students from diverse backgrounds. The group work also allowed projects.
me to look at a problem from different perspectives and understand
how different research fields can potentially connect and generate Overall, I would recommend the Scholarship without reservation to all
unexpected outcomes. STEM students in Hong Kong. The Scholarship and the programmes
it encompasses have truly been a transformative experience for
My time at NCAS has given me an extensive overview of atmospheric me, and I believe it will continue to be one for anyone receiving the
processes and interactions. After the experience, my fundamental Scholarship.
knowledge of the subject was strengthened, and I can better frame
my research in the broad field of atmospheric science.
41
Despite the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, I

was fortunate to participate in a two-week internship at an Ottobock
patient care facility in 2022. This internship allowed me to gain hands-
on experience and learn from experts in the field of prosthetics and
orthotics. Attending patient assessments, observing the fitting and
fabrication processes, and assisting in the provision of devices were
some of the highlights.
Before starting the internship, I set various learning objectives,

including enhancing my knowledge of prosthetic and orthotic
devices, developing practical skills in patient assessment and
device fitting, and understanding the challenges in resource-limited
settings. The preparation process was memorable, involving careful
planning of my journey and rearranging accommodation after
encountering unexpected issues. However, the warm hospitality and
support I received upon arrival in Manila made me feel welcomed
and supported.
LOO Hiu Tung, Kristy The clinic I visited in Manila is renowned for its comprehensive
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University rehabilitation services for individuals with limb loss or disability.
This overseas attachment provided me with invaluable insights,
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering enhancing my empathy, communication skills and cultural sensitivity,
which are all crucial in patient-centred care. Furthermore, witnessing
the dedication and resourcefulness of the clinic’s staff inspired me
to explore innovative solutions within my own practice. I acquired
I am honoured to be selected as one of the 25 knowledge of different prosthetic and orthotic devices, fabrication
Scholars for the 2021 InnoTech Scholarship. techniques and patient assessment methods, equipping me with
This award has enhanced my clinical experience practical skills for future endeavours. Manila’s clinic demonstrated
in prosthetics and orthotics, both locally and innovative approaches and technologies that could serve as valuable
lessons for Hong Kong. The use of locally sourced materials and
abroad. I’m grateful for the valuable insights
collaboration with universities, NGOs and the government ensured
from experts and the chance to inspire the accessibility and affordability for patients. These lessons can help
younger generation. It has empowered me to Hong Kong create a more inclusive environment for individuals in
face future challenges and contribute to society. need.
In conclusion, the overseas attachment in Manila provided me with

invaluable clinical exposure, cultural immersion and exposure to
innovation and technology. This experience enriched my knowledge,
skills and perspective on providing prosthetic and orthotic services. I
am grateful for this opportunity and eager to make a positive impact
in my future studies and career.
42
with an experienced product designer, which helped me understand
the intersection between engineering and healthcare. His own
story and journey in mechanical engineering inspired resilience
During my Local Internship Programme, I shadowed clinical educators and determination in me. The Mentorship Programme fostered
at the Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics in public hospitals, a supportive relationship, building my confidence and self-belief
actively participating in patient assessments, fabrication and overall as I navigate my academic and professional journey. Overall, the
patient care. Exposed to a diverse range of cases, I developed a mentorship has shaped my aspirations and refined my understanding
deeper understanding of the complexities involved in providing of the possibilities within mechanical engineering.
personalised solutions for patients’ unique requirements. I honed my
technical and communication skills, recognising the importance of
holistic care.
Further, the internship provided opportunities to explore the

application of innovation and technology in prosthetics and orthotics.
Working with state-of-the-art equipment and technologies, such as
3D scanning and computer-aided design (CAD) software, enabled
me to gain hands-on experience in the implementation of innovative
solutions. Witnessing the integration of innovation and technology in
clinical practice reinforced my belief in their transformative potential.
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams highlighted the importance
of a patient-centred and holistic approach. The experience nurtured
my passion for integrating innovation and technology into prosthetics
and orthotics, leading me to seek additional learning opportunities
and engage in independent projects.

To conclude, the Local Internship Programme provided me with
valuable exposure to prosthetics and orthotics, inspiring my studies
and fuelling my interest in integrating innovation and technology I organised an online workshop for primary school students,
into patient care. The hands-on experience and interdisciplinary introducing them to prosthetics and orthotics through a hands-
collaboration reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career that on experience. I explained the role of prosthetists/orthotists and
improves the lives of individuals with limb loss or disabilities. I am showcased real-life examples to engage and inspire the students. A
grateful for the opportunities and knowledge gained through this practical activity allowed them to create crafts using thermoplastic
internship, which will undoubtedly shape my future contributions. material, understanding its properties and applications in orthotics.
Interactive tools like visuals, videos and quizzes were incorporated to
enhance the workshop’s success and facilitate better understanding.
Through this project, I developed skills in presenting complex

information to young audiences and witnessed the enthusiasm and
curiosity of the students. It reinforced the importance of providing
educational opportunities and nurturing interest in prosthetics and
orthotics. This initiative sparked ideas for future contributions, raising
awareness and exploring the intersection of innovation, technology
and healthcare. I aim to collaborate with professionals, develop novel
solutions and make a positive impact in the field. The workshop
offered a platform to introduce primary school students to prosthetics
and orthotics, combining informative presentations with hands-on
activities, fostering curiosity and inspiring young minds.
Overall Evaluation
The Scholarship greatly supported me financially, enabling me to

focus on my studies and seize learning opportunities. Overseas
attachments, mentorship, service projects and internships
My mentorship experience with Professor Li Wen Jung, Chair broadened my perspective and enhanced my skills. My goal is to
Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at City excel in innovation and technology, and the Scholarship fuelled my
University of Hong Kong, has been incredibly valuable and inspiring. passion in this field. To prospective participants, I advise igniting
Throughout the Mentorship Programme, my mentor provided your passion, seeking mentorship, engaging in activities and staying
valuable advice on post-graduate studies and career opportunities, curious. I’m grateful to the Scholarship secretariat and staff, as well
extending beyond academia. His practical and kind guidance created as the university staff. Interacting with other awardees formed
a supportive environment for me to seek advice. I learnt a great deal enriching friendships and expanded my network. I’m thankful for the
from his expertise, gaining a clearer understanding of engineering Scholarship’s impact on my life and future aspirations.
development and the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge.
He advised me on pursuing a master’s degree or a doctorate and
emphasised aligning academic pursuits with personal interests and
career goals. Professor Li went above and beyond by connecting me
43
The InnoTech Scholarship has provided me with abundant resources,
including multiple training components such as an online training
programme, a mentorship programme and a service project
programme. These learning opportunities have expanded my vision
tremendously. I have gained valuable knowledge about rehabilitation-
related technology, received insightful advice for my career
development from my mentor, and learnt about the importance of
knowledge transfer and service. With the support of this Scholarship,
I have had a wonderful learning journey in the past year.
Thanks to the huge support from the Scholarship, I was able to enrol
in an online programme organised by the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT), which equipped me with invaluable knowledge
and insights into the utilisation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the
medical field. The Scholarship allowed me to access this programme,
which was specifically designed for healthcare professionals,
explaining the immense power of AI in relation to real-world clinical
NG Chit Yui, Jeffrey needs. The well-structured programme started by introducing the
basics of machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning, and
then delved deeper into the applications, the limitations, and how it
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University can be applied to improve healthcare management.
Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
The entire learning process was facilitated by a wealth of online
resources. The virtual learning environment provided a forum
function that allowed students to communicate and share ideas with
I feel incredibly grateful and honoured to have classmates from different countries, healthcare professions, and
been awarded the InnoTech Scholarship 2021. backgrounds. This was an incredible source of learning, especially
since people were encouraged to share their own experiences in
As someone who is new to the innovation and
using machine learning in their respective fields. I was thrilled to be a
technology field, this Scholarship has provided part of such a diverse and knowledgeable community.
me with an exceptional starting point and a
life-changing learning experience. Through Overall, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity provided to me
this Scholarship, I have been exposed to the by the Scholarship to enrol in various online programmes. I believe
vast potential of advanced technology, and that the knowledge and skills I gained will be of great benefit to
my future career and will help me contribute to the development
I am inspired to integrate it into the field of
of healthcare in Hong Kong. I am excited to continue exploring the
rehabilitation. potential of innovative technologies in healthcare and to be a part
of the movement towards more advanced and efficient healthcare
systems.
It is my honour to have Mr Wong Ming Yam as my mentor. With his

remarkable background and experience, Mr Wong has provided me
with prescient and practical advice for my personal development, and
has kindled my interest in innovation and technology.
44
Knowing my aspirations, Mr Wong provided me with many useful Thanks to the hard work of all the participating scholars, the young
pieces of advice. He reminded me to identify my own role and participants were able to engage in a meaningful and enjoyable
capability, taking advantage of being a healthcare professional scientific learning experience. By introducing them to the field of
in facilitating innovation development. He also introduced me innovation and technology and the role of technology in healthcare,
to a number of start-up companies and elaborated on the current we may have inspired some of them to pursue careers in science and
focus and progress of innovation and technology development in healthcare. Even for those who do not choose a career in these fields,
Hong Kong. This helped me recognise industrial needs and how I the workshop will hopefully have sparked an interest in science and
could play a role in the healthcare-technology integration process. innovation that they will carry with them throughout their lives.
Apart from imparting his general knowledge about innovation and
technology, Mr Wong also encouraged me to pursue my dream in my
future studies and showed me the great variability in development
pathways. With his support, I aspire to contribute to healthcare
technology development, providing high-quality and innovative
treatment to the public.
Every meeting with Mr Wong was eagerly anticipated. He was a kind

and easy-going person, with no airs and graces. I learnt a lot from him
every time. His advice and sharing of his experiences provided me
with insights, showing me how to pursue development associated
with innovation and technology. I am truly grateful to have met Mr
Wong and have him as my mentor under this Scholarship.
The workshop was designed to educate participants about the role Overall Evaluation
and scope of work of physiotherapists and to inspire them to be
innovative and curious. The topic that I chose was ‘The Colours of The InnoTech Scholarship has been a transformative experience for
Athletes’, and I used the story of an athlete to illustrate the process of me, both personally and professionally. The Scholarship has provided
injury, recovery and return to sports. Through this story, I introduced me with an exceptional starting point in the field of innovation and
the participants to the work of physiotherapists, emphasising that technology. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore and learn
physiotherapy is not just about restoring physical disabilities, but also about the vast potential of technology and how it can be integrated
about improving functional needs, quality of life, and personal well- into the field of rehabilitation.
being. I wanted to demonstrate that physiotherapy is not just for ill
patients or people after injury, but also for those who want to improve
their physical condition and reduce the risk of injury and illness.
The most exciting and eagerly awaited part of the workshop was the
hands-on session. The participants were provided with rigid tapes
and colourful elastic tapes, and some common taping methods were
introduced. They were so attentive and excited in using the tape
and tried to apply taping on their partners and parents. During the
process, they were able to understand the principles of protecting
a joint and even discovered new ways to apply taping. At the end of
the workshop, not a single part of their limbs was left uncovered by
colourful tapes. I was impressed by their creativity and imagination
in learning.
45
Studying in the United States at Columbia University through the

InnoTech Scholarship has been a transformative journey, offering
opportunities for personal and academic growth. The Scholarship
has opened doors to knowledge, cultural exchanges and unparalleled
experiences.
Before embarking on this journey, I set clear learning objectives that

would guide me throughout the programme. These objectives went
beyond academics, representing my commitment to lifelong learning
and adaptability in the ever-changing technology landscape. One key
objective was to deeply understand cutting-edge technologies like
AI, blockchain and biotechnology. I engaged in rigorous academic
exploration and practical projects, developing AI algorithms and
blockchain applications. These experiences not only enriched my
technical knowledge but also honed my problem-solving skills.
Preparing for my overseas adventure involved navigating the US visa

NG Ming Hin, Harvey system and securing accommodation in the competitive Manhattan
real estate market. These challenges taught me patience, attention
City University of Hong Kong to detail, adaptability and resourcefulness—skills crucial in the
innovation and technology field.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
The anticipation of cultural immersion in New York was both exciting
and challenging. Embracing diversity and adapting to new cultural
norms expanded my horizons, fostering the intercultural competence
My InnoTech Scholarship journey was necessary in a globalised world. Columbia University stands as a
transformative, consisting of three key bastion of academic excellence and innovation. Its state-of-the-art
components: the Overseas/ Mainland research facilities and passionate professors exposed me to cutting-
Attachment Programme, Mentorship edge research and technological advancements. New York City itself
is a dynamic hub of innovation, with tech startups, co-working spaces
Programme and Service Project Programme. At
and innovation centres around every corner. The rich cultural diversity
Columbia University, I embraced cutting-edge in the city promotes creativity and innovation, inspiring individuals
technology and gained a global perspective. from different backgrounds to tackle complex challenges together.
My mentor Dr Samson Tam, an entrepreneur,
emphasised startup ecosystems and personal Engaging in research projects and collaborating with world-class
growth. In the Service Project Programme, I professors and peers was a privilege. One standout experience was
working on renewable energy solutions for urban areas, instilling in
inspired young minds with STEM experiments,
me a sense of responsibility toward addressing global challenges
reinforcing the importance of early technology through innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration was a significant
education. The Scholarship deepened my takeaway from my time at Columbia. Working with individuals
understanding, broadened my horizons from diverse academic backgrounds broadened my horizons and
and ignited my passion for innovation and enhanced my problem-solving abilities, vital skills in the innovation
and technology field.
technology. I’m committed to contributing
actively to these fields while promoting Reflecting on my time abroad, I believe Hong Kong can learn from New
collaboration and education, making it a life- York’s innovation ecosystem. Strong industry-academic partnerships
changing experience. and support for startups can foster technological breakthroughs
and economic growth. Beyond academia, my overseas experience
was enriched by cultural exchanges and community service. These
experiences left me with a sense of responsibility toward contributing
to society through technology and innovation.
To prospective InnoTech awardees and young tech enthusiasts,

my advice is to embrace opportunities for learning and growth,
seek collaborations, and pursue your passion for innovation. With
determination and dedication, you can make a meaningful impact in
the world of technology and innovation.
46
This experience reinforced the importance of early STEM education
and encouraged many children to explore further experiments and
chemistry. Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing educational
The Scholarship’s Mentorship Programme introduced me to Dr outreach, particularly in innovation and technology, to shape future
Samson Tam, a seasoned tech entrepreneur with over 30 years of generations of thinkers and problem solvers.
experience. Dr Tam, known for founding ‘Instant-Dict’ and his active
role in angel investment and startup incubation, became my mentor, My long-term goal is to bridge the gap between academia and
profoundly impacting my outlook on innovation and technology. industry in innovation and technology. I aim to work on projects that
push technological boundaries, address real-world challenges and
Dr Tam didn’t leave room for uncertainty, promptly setting expectations benefit society. By fostering collaboration between researchers,
and offering tailored guidance. His advice spanned diverse innovation educators and industry professionals, I hope to create an environment
and technology topics, ensuring relevance to my goals. More than conducive to innovation and technological advancement.
theory, he shared real-life entrepreneurial experiences, illuminating
the unpredictable but rewarding startup world. Overall Evaluation
The paramount lesson from Dr Tam was the need for a supportive
The InnoTech Scholarship has been a transformative experience,
startup ecosystem. He stressed that innovation thrives in a
deepening my understanding of innovation and technology and
collaborative network, exemplified by his roles in various technology
instilling a passion for these fields. It provided hands-on learning
initiatives. Beyond the professional realm, Dr Tam imparted wisdom
and exposure to real-world tech applications, which will help prepare
on personal growth and leadership. He emphasised the importance
me for this fast-paced industry. Although I didn’t have a formal
of continuous learning and self-improvement, which are vital for
internship, my time at Columbia University and interactions in New
innovation and technology careers. His openness and humility
York City’s tech ecosystem broadened my perspective. I aspire to
inspired me.
bridge academia and industry, addressing global challenges through
innovation. Moreover, Dr Samson Tam’s mentorship inspired me to
The Mentorship Programme deepened my understanding of
support startups and innovation networks.
innovation and technology’s multifaceted nature, emphasising a
mindset that embraces change, learning and collaboration. It ignited
To future participants, I encourage you to embrace learning,
a passion to actively contribute to this dynamic field.
adaptability and collaboration. Overall, this Scholarship has equipped
me for a meaningful tech-driven career.
As an awardee of the InnoTech Scholarship, I had the privilege of

conducting a hands-on service project aimed at inspiring young minds
in the field of science. The project featured an engaging experiment
demonstrating the endothermic reaction between salt and water,
chosen for its ability to convey fundamental scientific principles in an
accessible way.
The experiment involved a simple outdoor setup with a wooden chair

and a beaker filled with water and ice cubes. When salt was added to
the mixture, it created a layer of ice between the beaker and chair due
to the endothermic reaction in which the salt’s dissolution absorbed
heat from the surroundings, causing the water to freeze.
Beyond the scientific aspect, the project focused on nurturing a

passion for science and innovation in young hearts. Witnessing the
children’s joy and curiosity was a powerful reminder of their potential.
It also provided lessons in effective communication and pedagogy,
since I needed to explain complex concepts in a child-friendly manner.
47
I also had the opportunity to participate in online conferences and
present my research findings, those being American Academy of
Ophthalmology (AAO), Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology
(APAO), EURETINA, and Canadian Ophthalmologist Society Annual
Meeting (COS) Canada. During the latter half of the Scholarship
period, I was able to travel with COVID-19 travel restrictions lifted.
I joined a full-day meeting held by the Royal Society of Medicine in
London and attended an in-person conference in Singapore organised
by the Asia-Pacific Association for Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
(APACRS).
At the Royal Society of Medicine in London, I was able to attend a

full-day course on Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) and Head and Neck
surgery. I was taught the pearls and tips on approaching challenging
cases of cholesteatoma, which is an abnormality inside the ear.
I also learnt about the approach to managing facelift surgery and
facial paralysis. More interestingly, I was presented with the method
POON Hiu Ling, of using visualisation techniques from the world of sports when
preparing for surgery. This method encourages surgeons to go over
Stephanie the possible things that could happen during the surgery that they will
perform the next day, thinking over how to manage any complication
if they were to occur. This can significantly increase the performance
of surgeons as shown in the data analysis. I found it very intriguing
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery to see that a method commonly used by athletes would actually be
useful when it came to performing surgery.
The InnoTech Scholarship brought me many

opportunities for growth and learning. I was
able to enrich myself with knowledge and
skills that I would not have been able to learn
had I not ventured into these courses and
conferences. I was able to participate in online
courses organised by the Royal College of
Surgeons, Perelman School of Medicine at the
University of Pennsylvania, The Association for
Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO),
and Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.
I also attended the APACRS conference organised in Singapore. This

was an utterly memorable experience for me as it was the first time
I had ever physically been to an international conference. Prior to
this, all the conferences I have attended were on a virtual platform.
I realised that attending a physical conference was so different and
so much more exciting than just sitting in front of my computer. This
is because not only was I able to meet new colleagues (and friends)
who were also interested in ophthalmology, but I was also able to
visit the booths and try out the new technologies and tools that
they had on offer. I was able to try out a virtual reality simulator for
performing a type of cataract surgery (phacoemulsification) step by
step under the guidance of the salesperson. This was the moment
when I realised that performing cataract surgery is not as easy as it
seems, but rather it involves a lot of skills and expertise.
Outside of the conference, I was able to meet up with a group of

fellow students from Hong Kong and explore Singapore beyond the
confines of the exhibition hall. We went on a Night Safari and saw
wild animals such as lions, tigers, wallabies, and many more from a
short distance away. This was a rather thrilling experience for all of
48
us. We also visited Sentosa Island, where we had an amazing time
Overall Evaluation
riding the Night Luge. Overall, it was a wonderful experience for me
as I got to enjoy various academic, social, and cultural aspects of
attending a conference. Through the conferences that I have participated in, I have listened
to so many keynote speakers and fellow researchers presenting their
projects and new findings. Their successes in research and medical
development is what I believe will be my encouragement to continue
practising academic medicine in the future. Research in medicine is
so important, and more doctors should get involved so that more
clinical trials can be carried out to develop new drugs, and we can
increase the pace of medical advancements.
All in all, the InnoTech Scholarship was a very generous scholarship

and allowed me to travel to places that I would never have gone on
my own. It encouraged me to go to international conferences such as
APACRS Singapore, and to explore other specialties that interested
me, specifically Head and Neck Surgery and ENT. I gained so much
insight into these two specialties after my trips to Singapore and
London respectively. These were such memorable experiences that
make me truly grateful to the InnoTech Scholarship.
I was able to meet up with Professor Dennis Lo, the renowned

chemical pathologist and the inventor and patent holder of the
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) method of diagnosing Down
syndrome in foetuses using the mother’s peripheral blood. During our
lunch, we discussed the importance of patents application, and some
of the problems he encountered as a patent holder and inventor of
something so massive in the scientific field. He also shared with me
stories from his time at medical school, and how he was dedicated
to research at a young age. Our conversation over the meal was an
eye-opening experience for me and I learnt a lot from my mentor.
For my service project, I held a workshop jointly with fellow InnoTech

Scholars about the anatomy of the eye. This workshop was aimed at
a group of primary school students and their parents to educate them
about the structure of the eye and the common diseases of the eye.
We also introduced to them the condition of myopia, which is short-
sightedness. Many questions were raised on this topic, especially
by parents. It was evident that myopia is becoming more and more
prevalent in Hong Kong and that, it is important to spread awareness
about this eye condition to children and their parents, educating them
on myopia prevention.
49
My Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme involved a cataract

blindness elimination project and a vector-borne disease (VBD)
elimination project in Cambodia under the lead of Professor Emily
Chan and her team. The projects offered us a platform to deliver
health interventions, initiate discussions with local medical staff on
VBD prevention measures, and learn the clinical management of
patients at Prey Veng Provincial Hospital.
The VBD Elimination and Cataract Blindness Elimination

Projects
There were multiple occasions during our field-trip in Cambodia

that allowed us to better comprehend the local eye disease burden
firsthand. Our team was invited to participate in the workshop on
2030 Insight Cambodia Policy Dialogue at Khmer-Soviet Friendship
Hospital, where we were able to gain greater insight into recent
ophthalmological care developments in Cambodia. We were briefed
SHAM Sze Tung, Tiffany on the current global trends in eye health and the World Health
Organisation's involvement, as well as internationally-applicable
tools developed to facilitate eye care service evaluation. The
The Chinese University of Hong Kong workshop also gave us an opportunity to engage in dialogue with
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery representatives from some of the most important global and local
players in eye health.
The InnoTech Scholarship has been an enriching

experience for me. I have been able to delve
deeper into the importance of intertwined top-
down and bottom-up efforts to facilitate data
dissemination in less developed countries, as
well as contextual considerations and multi-
pronged approaches to overcome technological
restrictions in resource-deprived settings. In Furthermore, through interacting with local medical staff at the local
the past years, COVID-19 has imposed further health centres and hospitals, we were able to learn more about the
geographical restrictions and social distancing cataract case load and general health-seeking practices of the local
measures— and technology has been the key population. The insights we gained will be invaluable in planning
to easing communication and information flow patient recruitment logistics for the Cataract Blindness Elimination
Project, such as through the direct referral of patients from these
in this interconnected world. This Scholarship
local health posts.
has opened up doors of exploration, and I
am immensely grateful for the eye-opening During our visit, we conducted a field inspection in the province of
experiences I have gained. Prey Veng in Cambodia in order to explore potential sites for the
parking of the Mobile Eye Treatment Centre (METC). Important
aspects to be considered included security, accessibility, local patient
load, and environmental appropriacy. We experienced firsthand how
multifaceted the site evaluations have to be for overseas projects to
be set up successfully.
50
The implementation in Cambodia had three core intervention
strategies, including the donation of posters and anti-mosquito
lamps, health education on the primary prevention of VBDs, and the
dissemination of informational leaflets. The experience of working As an InnoTech Scholar, I was fortunate to have Professor Gabriel
in a low-resource setting taught me to be innovative in finding Leung as my mentor. Our mentorship session was an invaluable
solutions to healthcare challenges. Over the years, Cambodia has experience, as Professor Leung shared his vision for public health
made significant progress in developing e-government initiatives and primary care in Hong Kong. He taught me the importance of
and digitising healthcare services. Cambodia's experience in leadership and teamwork in public health, and how innovation and
implementing e-health platforms and offering virtual healthcare technology can be leveraged to solve healthcare challenges. He also
services was a hallmark of the digitalised shift of medical systems in encouraged me to pursue my passion for medicine and public health,
less developed countries. and to be a positive force for change in society.
Clinical Attachment at Prey Veng Provincial Hospital

To better understand local healthcare provision in Cambodia, I
underwent a clinical attachment at Prey Veng Provincial Hospital. I
am grateful to have had the chance to experience how the Internal As part of the InnoTech Scholarship, I led a service workshop on
Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, the DNA structure. With over 20 primary school children and their
Infectious Diseases, and Emergency services are run, as well as parents, the workshop aimed to teach them about the double helical
the hospital admission procedure and triage, and the nature of the structure of DNA through the use of gummy bears and noodle-
cases. I was able to experience healthcare in a country which had shaped candies. The children had loads of fun classifying gummy
completely contrasting resource availability, different patient needs, bears of different colours into ‘CTGA’ bases, then assembling them
and distinct dynamics from our home city of Hong Kong. It was with toothpicks and making their very own ‘DNA’.
valuable to witness in person the unique doctor-patient interactions
in the local context. I was inspired personally by patients that I had It was a fun-filled afternoon with questions of curiosity and laughs
the privilege to examine and learn from throughout the day. of amazement, and I hope that my little attempt to introduce the
children to the world of science will plant seeds in them that may one
day bloom as some of them grow up to become budding scientists.
Overall Evaluation
The InnoTech Scholarship has opened new windows of opportunity for

me. The experiences I gained during the Scholarship period have had
a long-lasting impact on my personal and professional growth in the
fields of global health and humanitarian medicine, and have inspired
me to use technology to solve healthcare challenges. I will continue
to be open-minded and curious as I embrace new experiences in
the coming years as a medical doctor. Clinically, my wish is to serve
patients in our community during the most intimate, sensitive,
and insecure moments of their lives; globally, I am enthusiastic in
promoting healthcare equity through bridging the gaps in healthcare
between privileged and impoverished communities. I hope that the
Scholarship will continue to inspire and empower future generations
of innovators and leaders in Hong Kong.
51
The moment I received the news of my selection, a surge of emotions
overwhelmed me. The joy of achievement, the anticipation of the
experiences ahead and the gratitude for being provided with such a
platform. The Scholarship was not just about financial support; it was
about exposure, learning and growth in the vast field of innovation
and technology.
The programme was meticulously curated to offer a panoramic

view of the global technological landscape. It was a journey through
diverse ecosystems, each offering unique insights, challenges and
opportunities.
The University of British Columbia, Canada
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal forests, The
University of British Columbia (UBC) stands as a testament to
excellence in education and research. Founded in 1908, UBC
has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, pushing
WONG Ho Chi, Andy boundaries and challenging conventions. My time at UBC was an
immersion into sustainable technologies. The university, with its
City University of Hong Kong deep commitment to sustainability and green initiatives, showcased
how technology could be harnessed to create environmentally
Bachelor of Business Administration in
responsible solutions. Workshops, seminars and hands-on projects
Global Business Systems Management provided a comprehensive understanding of the innovations in green
technology. Beyond the academic rigour, the breathtaking beauty of
Vancouver and the rich cultural tapestry of the city added depth to
the learning experience.
The InnoTech Scholarship is not just a financial
grant; it’s a beacon of recognition, a testament
to the relentless pursuit of knowledge and a
gateway to unparalleled opportunities in the
realm of technology and innovation. Being
chosen from a vast pool of exceptionally
talented candidates was not only an honour but
also a profound responsibility. It was a clarion
call to delve deeper, to explore further, and to
contribute significantly to the ever-evolving
world of technology. The Scholarship was more
than just an accolade; it was a commitment to
excellence, a promise to innovate and a journey
to the future.
52
Lancaster University, the UK
Lancaster University, with its sprawling campus adorned with

historical and modern architecture, is a blend of tradition and
modernity. Since its establishment in 1964, the university has been
a hub of research and innovation. My journey in Lancaster was not
just about technology; it was about understanding the socio-cultural
underpinnings that drive innovation. The hiking adventure in the
picturesque Lancashire countryside was symbolic of my exploration.
Each hill climbed, and each valley crossed mirrored the challenges
and triumphs of the technological world. The serene landscapes, the
rich history and the vibrant student community at Lancaster provided
a holistic experience, blending academic learning with cultural
enrichment.
Organising the design thinking workshop for kids was a testament

to the adage, “To teach is to learn twice.” The enthusiasm of the
young participants was infectious. As I watched them brainstorm and
collaborate, I was reminded of the pure joy of creation. Their fresh
perspectives on problem-solving were enlightening, emphasising the
importance of nurturing young minds for the future of innovation.
Overall Evaluation
The realm of innovation and technology is vast, intricate and ever-

Boston University, the US evolving. The InnoTech Scholarship provided not just a glimpse but
a deep dive into this world. From understanding global technological
Boston, Massachusetts, a city steeped in history and buzzing with narratives to grasping intricate concepts like cybersecurity and HCI,
innovation, is home to Boston University (BU). Since its inception the journey has been enlightening.
in 1839, BU has been a crucible of ideas, fostering creativity and
pioneering research. The university’s legacy of producing Nobel As I reflect on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the myriad
laureates is a testament to its commitment to excellence. The US, experiences and invaluable lessons. The Scholarship was not just an
with its pulsating tech hubs and a culture of startups, provided academic endeavour; it was a holistic experience that moulded my
a kaleidoscopic view of technology and innovation. At BU, I was perspective, honed my skills and ignited my passion for technology.
exposed to a plethora of ideas, from groundbreaking research to
entrepreneurial ventures. The dynamism of the American tech To the budding aspirants and the vibrant young minds who are on the
ecosystem, the spirit of enterprise and the culture of collaboration cusp of stepping into the vast realm of technology, I extend these
were palpable in every interaction, seminar and workshop. words of counsel. First and foremost, nurture your innate curiosity.
The technological landscape is ever-changing, filled with mysteries
The Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme was not just about waiting to be unravelled and innovations yet to be discovered. Your
visiting universities; it was about imbibing the ethos of innovation inquisitiveness will be your guiding light, leading you to breakthroughs
that each of these institutions embodied. It was about understanding and novel insights.
the global narratives of technology, recognising the common threads
and appreciating the nuances. Secondly, embody relentlessness in your quest for knowledge.
The journey through technology is not always straightforward;
it’s punctuated with challenges, setbacks and moments of
Mentorship Programme doubt. However, it’s your unwavering determination and thirst for
understanding that will propel you forward, helping you surmount
My mentorship with Mr Lam Tin Fuk was transformative. Our any obstacle in your path.
initial meetings were filled with discussions about the current
state of technology in Hong Kong and the potential for growth. Lastly, cultivate a mindset of adaptability. In an industry as dynamic
Mr Lam emphasised the importance of effective communication as technology, stagnation is the antithesis of progress. New
in leadership, a lesson I’ve internalised and practised. Under his paradigms, tools and methodologies emerge almost daily. Being
guidance, I undertook projects that honed my management skills, adaptable ensures you remain relevant, versatile, and at the forefront
teaching me to lead with empathy and vision. of innovation.
Remember, the vast expanse of technology doesn’t pause or slow

down for anyone. But for those who are committed to continuous
learning, growth and evolution, it unfurls a horizon brimming with
boundless opportunities and transformative potential. Embrace it
with open arms and an open mind.
53
I went on an exchange during the spring of 2022 at the University of

Manchester in the United Kingdom. Not only did I have the chance
to enjoy the thought-provoking courses from the school, but also
to explore Manchester, the world's first industrialised city, and
neighbouring cities and countries. Although the COVID-19 pandemic
complicated the exchange journey and the mode of learning was
altered, I still achieved what I aimed for—to learn about research and
experience living in a different cultural setting.
I had the opportunity to take courses on bioethics, genetics, cancer

biology, and more. I enjoyed the tutorials very much as they were
conducted as discussions of scientific journal articles and Q&A
sessions.
For example, in the bioethics class, different controversial topics

were discussed during tutorial sessions. Instead of being confined to
responding in a standard way, lecturers introduced various theories
WONG Tsz Yan, Cherry of reasoning and guided us to explain our ideas in fully developed and
logical arguments. I also mingled with locals and worked on group
The Hong Kong University of Science and projects—I appreciate how proactive, attentive, and respectful my
classmates were when expressing ideas, which was vastly different
Technology from the learning culture in Hong Kong.
Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and
Business Through the genetics course, I garnered the opportunity to learn
about genetics from the point of view of archaeology and diseases,
a perspective I had rarely come across in Hong Kong. The course
covered methods for studying the origin of the human species and its
evolution. It was eye-opening to learn about how scientists deduce
I am deeply honoured to be one of the
the origin and sub-population of human ancestors by putting pieces
InnoTech Scholarship 2021 awardees, of evidence together.
surprised and grateful at the same time. The
Scholarship’s support is one of the highlights In essence, the overseas attachment was a once-in-a-lifetime
of my undergraduate studies, including an experience that has broadened my horizons and helped me to
exchange at the University of Manchester, prepare for future careers.
a three-month internship at the Hong Kong

Productivity Council, mentorship by Dr Edwin
Yu, a service project at the Hong Kong Science
Park, and a big innovation and technology
community with inspiring and bright minds.
This was a fruitful, eye-opening, and life-
changing journey for me, and I wholeheartedly
recommend the Scholarship to any budding
local undergraduates who are passionate about
science, technology, and innovation.
54
I interned at the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) during

the summer of 2021, where I assisted on a few ongoing research
projects on food waste and public works under the Green Living and
Innovation Division.
With guidance from scientists and consultants, I carried out

experiments and literature reviews, and prepared materials for
business development, which has given me insights into the
collaboration of the government, universities, and statutory bodies
for technology transfer in bringing innovative solutions to local Service Project Programme
industries and enterprises. I also joined various site visits and
seminars to get a glimpse of several emerging technologies, namely
My service project was about DNA, which is the hereditary material
blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and the Internet of Things
in humans and most organisms. As a biotechnology student, I
(IoT). I was immensely motivated by the Massachusetts Institute
wished to arouse the interest of the younger generation in life
of Technology (MIT)’s motto, ‘mens et manus’ (mind and hand),
sciences, specifically to introduce them to basic cell structure, the
emphasising the cooperation between education and industry for
function of DNA in a cell, and DNA-based technologies. Also, I hoped
practical applications, which I learnt from one of the talks at the MIT
that parents would support their kids in pursuing a career in STEM.
Hong Kong Innovation Node.
Hence, I prepared a workshop for 16 pairs of parents and primary
school students at the Hong Kong Science Park with support from
Moreover, I had the opportunity to nurture my soft skills during
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups.
the internship. Thanks to the trust of the directorate and senior
management, I was the Master of Ceremonies for a division-wide
During the workshop, I briefly introduced various applications of
meeting. I also shadowed executive-level managers in internal
biotechnology, followed by a mini-quiz contest, in which participants
and external events, gaining invaluable experiences from the
answered questions related to biology. Later on, participants
management board.
conducted hands-on experiments in extracting the DNA of
strawberries. The DNA was visualised in the form of white/ clear
Overall, the local internship at HKPC has inspired me with how
sticky threads.
research and innovation come hand in hand by transferring
technologies to local industries, making a real impact on the market.
I was amazed by the enthusiasm of the kids who asked questions
about the rationale of the experiment. For example, one kid asked
why and how we could prove that the slimy glue-like gel is DNA.
This reminded me of the importance of curiosity, which lies at the
crux of all successful research. Another lesson I learnt throughout
the activity was the importance of effective science communication,
so that complicated science concepts can be open, understandable,
and accessible to the masses. Their smiling faces by the end of the
activity gave me a great sense of fulfilment.
I am honoured to have Dr Edwin Yu as my mentor for the Mentorship

Programme. Dr Yu is renowned for the integration of Chinese and
Western Medicine, both in clinical and academic aspects. He is also
keen on educating the next generation of clinicians. Overall Evaluation
Although I am coming from a non-medical background, I was I am sincerely grateful to the InnoTech Scholarship for giving me a
fortunate enough to sit in while Dr Yu was attending to patients. He head start in the innovation and technology field—the opportunities
patiently explained how he handled different cases from Chinese to explore research and development locally and globally, to interact
and Western angles and shared stories related to life values and his with emerging talents and experts who dedicate themselves to the
thoughts on the outlook for society. field, and to share scientific knowledge with the younger generation.
I also came to understand that passion, a life-long learning attitude,
I was energised by Dr Yu’s wisdom, passion, and lifelong learning dedication, and curiosity are all important qualities in the innovation
attitude. I hope I can inspire someone the way he has inspired me and technology industry. After all, I am better equipped to pursue my
one day. dream and hopefully can contribute to the world in the near future.
55
Exchange at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland
Participating in a five-months semester exchange programme at

Metropolia University of Applied Sciences (Metropolia) was an
immensely valuable experience. Being the largest university of applied
sciences in Finland, they focus on preparing future professionals in
various fields, with the vision of being a bold reformer of expertise
and an active builder of a sustainable future. The supportive and
approachable teaching staff offered practical skills and workplace-
oriented education, in contrast to the more theoretical and research-
oriented approach at my home university. Remote learning during
the initial phase due to the pandemic did not hinder my engagement,
and I had the opportunity to study diverse subjects such as database
management, full-stack development, neural networks, mathematics,
and cybersecurity. The collaborative and friendly learning environment
fostered creativity and provided insights into the effective application of
technology in business.
WONG Wai Ning, Emily The exchange programme was not limited to academics but also
The Hong Kong University of Science and involved cross-cultural experiences. Despite initial restrictions, out-
of-school-hours student events allowed me to interact with peers
Technology from different backgrounds, broadening my understanding of diverse
Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science cultures and perspectives. This cultural exchange enhanced my skills
in collaboration and effective communication within multicultural
and Bachelor of Business Administration in
environments.
General Business Management
Metropolia provided extensive support for student-initiated projects.
Some inspiring projects include physiotherapy games for children
hospital and educational games in cooperation with NGOs. They were
The InnoTech Scholarship endowed me with the truly bringing technology into their efforts to improve the society, which
privilege to explore the technology space with a brought useful and practical results. The innovation-driven mindset of
global vision. With the various kinds of activity Metropolia students, their student-led projects, and the emphasis on
practical skills were inspiring examples that Hong Kong could learn from
as well as interactions with my mentors and
to create a more engaging educational experience.
other awardees, I could not have had a more
fruitful and well-spent year, especially during
the difficult times of the pandemic.
FinTech World Forum 2022, the United Kingdom
Attending the FinTech World Forum 2022 in London provided valuable

insights into the latest trends and developments in the fintech industry.
Interacting with international industry leaders and experts exposed me
to emerging technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and
open banking. Listening to the professional speakers from companies
such as JUXT, Rakuten Group, Allica Bank, IBM, and HSBC broadened
my knowledge of global fintech trends and regulatory frameworks, and
best practices in digital payments, wealth management, and lending.
One remarkable presentation was the introduction of blockchain
technology in improving operational efficiencies and compliance. The
event highlighted London’s successful ecosystem that fosters fintech
innovation through collaboration between industry players, regulators,
56
and academia, serving as an inspiration for Hong Kong’s future
endeavours in the field.
I am honoured to have Professor Timothy Tong, Former President of The

Hong Kong Polytechnic University and CEO of the AMTD Foundation,
as my mentor. His guidance and advice on career planning broadened
my perspective and inspired my personal and professional growth.
Professor Tong’s extensive knowledge in engineering and personal
stories motivated me to strive for success. His passion for innovation
and entrepreneurship fuelled my own aspirations and encouraged me
to think creatively. I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with Dr
Tong and for the mentorship provided by the Scholarship.
International Business Plan Competition 2023, Germany
Participating in the International Business Plan Competition (IBPC)

held in Hamburg, Germany was an exceptional opportunity.
Collaborating with students and professors from the University of
Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Bayreuth, National Tsing Hua
University and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology,
our diverse team developed a pitch on ‘AI for Business’ in just ten
days. Our idea, ‘DigiDive’, a digital diving goggles concept, earned
us third place out of eight teams. The intense programme included
ideation, presentation, feedback, reflection, and visits to esteemed
German companies like Lufthansa Technik. This experience sparked
our creativity and deepened our understanding of the practical I conducted a MakeCode Arcade workshop at the A.I. Future Tense
implementation of technology in business. Science Carnival, organised by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth
Groups, to promote STEM education among elementary school
Working within a multicultural team exposed me to different working children. Using MakeCode Arcade, I taught them how to create their
styles, fostering an innovative mindset and reinforcing the importance own retro arcade games and grasp coding concepts. The workshop
of challenging conventions. Alongside the competition, we formed highlighted the importance of accessible and engaging technology for
strong bonds, enjoying light-hearted moments while immersing younger generations, inspiring their enthusiasm for learning. Interacting
ourselves in the local culture, trying German cuisine, and engaging in with the children made me realise my potential impact on society and
activities like canoeing on Hamburg’s scenic lakes. the field of innovation and technology. I am motivated to bridge the
digital divide, empower individuals, and contribute to a technology-
driven world. This service project instilled a sense of responsibility and
passion in me. I was inspired to organise workshops, mentor aspiring
coders, and contribute to educational technology resources for a more
inclusive and innovative future.
Overall Evaluation
The InnoTech Scholarship has been transformative for both my personal

and professional growth. The Scholarship expanded my knowledge
and understanding of the technology industry, allowing me to gain
insights into emerging trends, innovative solutions, and the global
landscape of innovation. It also served as a platform for me to engage
with industry experts, mentors, and like-minded individuals, fostering
valuable connections and relationships that will continue to enrich my
Local Internship Programme journey in the field. Most importantly, it solidified my commitment
to making a positive impact through innovative solutions and driving
As a Software Developer Intern at a high-tech start-up specialising positive change in society.
in AI for job-seekers, agents, and companies, I gained practical
experience in database management, front-end development, UI/UX To prospective participants in this Scholarship and younger students
design, and optimisation. This real-world setting allowed me to apply interested in innovation and technology: embrace your curiosity and
my academic knowledge and enhance my technical skills. Witnessing never stop learning. The ever-evolving world of technology requires
the transformative power of AI and natural language processing (NLP) adaptability and an open mind to explore novel opportunities.
in the job-seeking process deepened my interest in these fields. The Seek diverse experiences through internships, competitions, and
internship exposed me to innovative technologies and a dynamic work collaborations. Build a strong network of mentors, peers, and
environment, motivating me to pursue a career in the innovation and professionals who can guide and support you on your journey. Their
technology field. wisdom and expertise will prove invaluable to you in navigating the
challenges and seizing the numerous opportunities that lie ahead.
57
Harvard University
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly emerging industry that holds

tremendous potential for transforming the healthcare landscape. To gain
an in-depth understanding of the interplay between AI and medicine,
I enrolled in the ‘Designing and Implementing AI Solutions for Health
Care Programme’ offered by Harvard Medical School. The Programme
explores the frontiers of machine learning, with global leaders sharing
their expertise on the practical aspects of AI implementation in real-life
clinical scenarios. In addition, participants were given the opportunity
to develop their AI group projects, for which our team was honoured
to be awarded first place. The global exposure has enriched my
understanding of incorporating technological advancements into
enhancing the medical infrastructure, which can be further integrated
to optimise healthcare services.
Another programme that has deepened my grasp of healthcare is

WONG Wing Yan, Yanny the ‘Leading in Health Systems: Activating Transformational Change’
course provided by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. This
The Chinese University of Hong Kong meta-leadership course imparts unique insights on how to navigate
the unprecedented challenges in medicine. The course examines
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery the fundamental principles of crisis management by investigating
(Global Physician-Leadership Stream) pragmatic models that empower organisations to flourish under
adverse conditions. In addition, it covers a plethora of negotiation and
conflict resolution techniques to generate swift and effective responses
in healthcare dilemmas. The lessons on astute leadership in this course
I am deeply honoured to have been selected can be applied to enhance medical services during the extraordinary
times of COVID-19 and beyond.
as one of the awardees of the InnoTech
Scholarship 2021. The exceptional experiences Peking University
offered by the Scholarship have broadened my
Bioinformatics is an expanding discipline in medicine with far-reaching
horizons and further inspired me to transform
implications that extend beyond DNA sequencing and genome research.
my vision of providing the optimum healthcare
To attain a more well-rounded appreciation of this interdisciplinary
services for the betterment of Hong Kong into field, I enrolled in the online bioinformatics course. This course
positive actions. My heartfelt gratitude for all investigates the extensive applications of bioinformatics in research and
the invaluable learning opportunities which development while equipping students with tangible skills to tackle the
have empowered both my personal growth and intricacies of this dynamic field. In the era of big data, bioinformatics is
a pertinent scientific discipline that catalyses healthcare research. The
professional development.
informative course has increased my understanding of bioinformatics
and motivated me to further explore this rapidly evolving field.
Over the past decade, the field of neuroscience has experienced

exceptional technological advancements. In pursuit of a deeper
understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, I enrolled in the online
advanced neurobiology course. It provided a valuable educational
platform for me to explore the marvels of neurotechnology and its
diverse array of applications. This gratifying journey has broadened my
knowledge of the most recent scientific breakthroughs in neuroscience,
underscoring the immense potential of this field to improve healthcare
outcomes.
58
International conferences
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many face-to-face teaching activities
have transitioned to digital platforms. A research project was initiated It is my great honour to have Professor Yuen Kwok Yung as my
to investigate the impact of this transformation in medical education, mentor. He is the Henry Fok Professor in Infectious Diseases at the
and I was honoured to present the findings at the Association for Department of Microbiology of The University of Hong Kong. I have
Medical Education in Europe (AMEE) Conference. The interactive thoroughly enjoyed the extraordinary mentorship experience and
session delved into the pedagogical strategies of medical education am immensely grateful for Professor Yuen's guidance. His profound
under the new normal, assessing the capacity of e-learning platforms insights have broadened my horizons in medicine and beyond, instilling
to complement traditional curricula. The academic discussion was in me the values of leadership and service. His invaluable advice on
illuminating, generating innovative ideas for continuing professional life and career has inspired me to continue pursuing my goals with
development through leveraging the power of technology. passion and dedication, striving to become a compassionate doctor
with unwavering devotion to the community.
It was a great honour to represent my university at the International
Online Clinical Case Discussions Summer 2022, a Global Alliance of
Medical Excellence collaborative initiative, organised by The Chinese
University of Hong Kong, Nagoya University, Korea University, Ludwig
Maximilian University of Munich, Monash University, and University of
Bologna. The highly interactive experience featured interesting clinical
cases and thought-provoking dialogues. I thoroughly enjoyed this
fruitful opportunity to expand my medical knowledge and exchange
new ideas with an international audience.

The Programme provides me an excellent opportunity to give back to
the community. My project aimed to promote eye health among primary
16th Colorectal Surgery Course cum Hong Kong Society for
school children through an online health talk that included interactive
Coloproctology Annual Scientific Meeting
activities to increase their awareness of eye protection. I relished the
service opportunity and am enthusiastic about organising future health
Sarcopenia is an age-related skeletal muscle disorder associated with
initiatives that promote community well-being.
unfavourable clinical outcomes, including postoperative complications,
morbidity, and mortality rates. I am grateful to have had the opportunity,
Volunteering for the HSBC Hub for the Future Programme in the
under the guidance of Professor Simon Ng and Dr Ho Man Fung, to
Hong Kong Sevens was another rewarding experience. Guiding
embark on a colorectal research journey on sarcopenia and present
underprivileged youths to enjoy the premier rugby tournament in a
the findings at the meeting. The memorable experience offered me
welcoming environment was truly fulfilling. The festive atmosphere
exceptional insights on recent technological breakthroughs in colorectal
of the event, coupled with its promotion of inclusivity, made it an
research, inspiring me to advance healthcare through bench-to-bedside
unforgettable event that further strengthened my determination to
practices.
make a positive difference in society.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales
Hospital Overall Evaluation
The attachment provided extensive perspectives into the innovative

The Scholarship has been an exhilarating journey both for my personal
frontiers in obstetrics and gynaecology. The clinical and research
development and my pursuit of innovation in enhancing healthcare
activities have honed my problem-solving and analytical skills. Through
services. I am immensely grateful for the unparalleled experiences
reviewing the medical literature on ovarian stimulation, it has increased
which have enriched my perspective on medical advancements,
my understanding of the latest developments in fertility treatments and
reinforcing my commitment to continue contributing to the community
encouraged me to contemplate the bioethical ramifications of these
with the knowledge and skills I have acquired. I wholeheartedly
inventions for patient well-being.
recommend the Scholarship to all budding scientists who share the
Anti-COVID AI Chatbot Programme same passion for building a bright future for our home.
The pioneering initiative aims to develop an AI chatbot capable of

providing accurate and timely information in response to pandemic-
related queries. Participating in the programme has given me firsthand
experiences in the technical aspects of training AI chatbots, as
well as their potential benefits to public health. It has helped me to
further appreciate the ongoing quest for groundbreaking possibilities
to enhance the quality of medical services and patient care through
cutting-edge technology.
59
The InnoTech Scholarship is a gateway for me to chase after my
aspirations by providing invaluable experiences, networks, and
extensive knowledge. The resources and support offered through
the various programmes under this Scholarship will be immensely
beneficial in helping me turn my ambitions into a reality.
One significant aspect of the Scholarship is the opportunity for overseas

attachments. I participated in the FinTech World Forum, a renowned
two-day event held in London that brings together companies from the
global financial and banking technology industries. During the forum,
I had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from keynote speakers
and engage in productive conversations with overseas businesses.
This experience not only allowed me to represent Hong Kong students
but also helped me lay a solid foundation for discovering more about
business ideas and ways to integrate with Hong Kong's fintech
ecosystem.
YAU Hui Ching, Charlie

Bachelor of Engineering in Financial Technology
The InnoTech Scholarship goes beyond

providing financial support to awardees; it aims
to foster holistic development through various
opportunities such as overseas attachments/
internship placements, mentorship
connections, and local internship opportunities.
As a Financial Technology student pursuing a
bachelor’s degree at The Chinese University
of Hong Kong, my studies have inspired me to
incorporate more technological elements into
Hong Kong’s financial hub.
The Scholarship also serves as a portal to establish connections

between academia and the workplace. The Local Internship
Programme supported me in searching for job opportunities aligned
with my passions. Through internships, I was able to immerse myself
in Hong Kong’s financial industry and apply my fintech knowledge while
gaining both soft and technical skills.
In my first internship, I had a keen interest in learning how website

design and development worked. Therefore, I sought an opportunity
as a user experience/ user interface (UX/UI) developer at a trading
services and consulting company that connects global supply chains.
During this internship, I was responsible for maintaining the company’s
website, researching user requirements, collaborating with managers
for experience evaluation, and designing graphic user interface
elements. It was a steep learning curve as it was my first time applying
my UX/UI skills in a professional environment. This internship not only
allowed me to contribute ideas as an intern but also provided me with
60
valuable insights into the company’s products and logistics, helping me various business functions and job duties. Mr Grimme's vast network
make the website convenient and efficient for both our team and our and guidance have been instrumental in expanding my knowledge and
clients. The skills I gained were also beneficial for my university final opening doors to new opportunities.
year industrial project, where I was responsible for implementing the
front end of a contract management platform. Overall Evaluation
In my second internship, I delved into the world of cryptocurrencies and

In conclusion, the InnoTech Scholarship has empowered me to pursue
NFTs (non-fungible tokens), which are undoubtedly core components
my aspirations in the fintech field. The comprehensive development
of the fintech realm. Having learnet about the concepts and case
opportunities, including overseas attachments, internships, and
studies of cryptocurrencies and NFTs in my studies, I was thrilled to
mentorship connections, have equipped me with invaluable skills,
join a fintech company that aimed to develop NFTs in collaboration
experiences, and knowledge. With the support of the Scholarship, I
with an entertainment group. During this internship, my responsibilities
am well-prepared to contribute to the innovative and technological
included researching NFT and metaverse-related projects, designing
advancements in Hong Kong’s financial hub. The opportunities provided
NFT products, handling internal and external business communications,
through the Scholarship programmes have laid a solid foundation for my
and assisting in community channels.
future career in fintech and will continue to drive my passion and goals
in this rapidly evolving field.
Through countless meetings and discussions, I learnt numerous
terms from the crypto community and delved into the procedures
of whitelisting and airdropping. I even had the opportunity to interact
with our community through the Discord channel, where I served
as a moderator and hosted several games to entertain our followers
while they learnt more about our background. The knowledge I gained
through this internship extended far beyond what I had previously learnt
during my study. It provided me with a real-life experience where I
could see the whole picture of running an NFT company.
For my final internship, I wanted to explore a different path that is

focused more on technology, regardless of the industry. My goal
was to develop my programming and data skills by improving a
company’s online payment systems. I applied for an internship position
at a cosmetics company where my main responsibilities included
contributing to online payment strategies by researching the market,
closely engaging with other business teams, and supporting the
digitalisation of sales administration. During this internship, I had the
opportunity to identify the latest payment methods and technologies
used by cosmetic companies. I was involved in integrating a new
payment method to streamline our customers’ checkout process. The
improvement and transformation of the process made me realise the
importance of providing a seamless experience for both clients and the
company itself.
Through engagement with various departments, I gained a holistic

view of the considerations required for successful digitalisation, ranging
from technical specifications and security standards to UX design and
marketing strategies. It provided valuable lessons that will help me
pursue future career opportunities in the field of fintech.
I am grateful to have Mr David Grimme, the Group General Manager

and Chief Operating Officer (Asia Pacific) of HSBC, as my mentor in
the Mentorship Programme. This programme is extremely valuable as
it allows students to directly connect with senior leaders or industry
experts, an experience that is often challenging to attain on their own.
We scheduled a lunch where we discussed a range of topics,

from HSBC's perspectives to navigating my career path. As an
undergraduate student with limited industry experience, I was also
nervous about securing summer internships. I remember how Mr
Grimme shared his past experiences to put me at ease and encouraged
me not to worry about feeling lost while pursuing job opportunities.
After our initial meeting, we stayed in touch and arranged a Zoom call to
further discuss my career choices. Mr Grimme also connected me with
professionals from different departments within HSBC to learn about
61
The InnoTech Scholarship provided me with the opportunity to study

a Master of Science in Medical Genomics at the University of Exeter.
In terms of coursework, we learnt about sequencing technologies,
their applications in clinical medicine, methods for data analysis and
development of bioinformatic pipelines. Despite being more familiar
than other medical students with genetic and genomic sciences and
how they are applied in clinical medicine, I was still amazed by how fields
that are not typically associated with genetics, such as microbiology
and public health, are embracing sequencing technologies and genomic
medicine to enhance their delivery of care.
YEO Victoria Anna

Beyond the standard teaching and learning, we also had to complete a

I am forever grateful for having received the
research study under the supervision of esteemed researchers at the
wonderful opportunity to pursue further studies institute on a topic of our choice. The chance to conduct a research
in my field of interest—genomic medicine— project from the very beginning and see it through the end was priceless
during the InnoTech Scholarship period. During because the problem-solving skills attained through overcoming the
the academic year spanning 2021 to 2022, which challenges that were encountered in developing a research protocol,
corresponds to my Enrichment Year for the troubleshooting erroneous bioinformatic pipelines, and making valid
interpretations from the results cannot be acquired by other means.
undergraduate degree at The University of Last but not least, the research opportunities provided in the school
Hong Kong, I was able to study a Master of also allowed me to experience the research culture in other cities and
Science in Genomic Medicine intercalated organisations, from which I have learnt the importance of talking to
degree at the University of Exeter. people who are working on similar topics of research, how sharing
ideas and thoughts with people of different backgrounds can yield
fruitful conversations, and how friendly competition can elevate the
outputs of the entire research group.
Receiving the Scholarship in itself also acted as a token of

encouragement from well-respected pioneers of innovation and
technology in society. I participated in further research studies on
introducing change in the curricula of undergraduate medicine, as
well as that of other healthcare professionals. While my personal
development is significant, systemic changes are equally if not more
important because advancements in the healthcare system involve
and affect everyone working in the field. Furthermore, this research
experience differed greatly from bench-based and data-based
research projects, and while the unfamiliarity was frightening at the
beginning, it further pushed me to learn the techniques involved in
other forms of research, while providing me with an opportunity
to train my skills in critical thinking and logical reasoning. Finally, I
attended a virtual international conference during this research
internship. This was my first time presenting at an international
conference. I learnt how to deliver and receive critiques with grace,
while also responding to questions and doubts about original
research.
62
and that teaching may be an element of consideration when I choose
my career in the future.
Overall Evaluation
I have benefited from the InnoTech Scholarship in multiple ways.

Financially, it was of great assistance when it came to pursuing studies
overseas. However, it also provided me with countless opportunities
for personal development. First and foremost, it provided me with the
opportunity to organise a workshop on gas laws for primary school
students, during which I learnt as much as they did from the experience.
The Scholarship also provided me with a platform for professional
networking, not only among peers who are at the same stage of
development as I am, but also with seniors who have established
careers and juniors who are experiencing what I have gone through.
What I have gained from the Scholarship is difficult to quantify, but I am
Mentorship Programme proud to have been awarded the InnoTech Scholarship.
Similarly, conversations with my mentor, Professor Francis Chan, was

invaluable as he was able to advise me on both questions relating to the
InnoTech Scholarship and those relating to my future career directions.
I was struggling with the idea that I am both a medical student and a
recipient of the Scholarship because the former would mean that my
primary task is to learn about clinical medicine and devote myself to
patient care, while the latter suggests that I have a commitment to
facilitate the development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong,
especially with my background in genetic and genomic medicine.
Professor Chan reassured me that my main goal at the moment should

be completing my medical studies, as it is the foundation for my future
career. He also counselled me and reinforced the idea that the gains
from individual experiences are usually difficult to pinpoint, as they may
be indirect and delayed. His kind words not only serve as comfort but
as motivation for my further pursuit of medicine.
The final highlight of the Scholarship was the opportunity to organise

a workshop for primary school students, in which I decided to
emphasise the importance of the scientific method, such as observing
the natural world, generating probable hypotheses, and using known
scientific facts to explain natural phenomena. While I began with
breathing mechanisms and gas laws in mind, it eventually evolved
into an insightful session with a lot of interaction between me and the
students, as well as discussions on how such breathing mechanisms
and gas laws could be applied in clinical medicine. I was amazed at
how children can easily pick up new concepts, their inquisitiveness,
enthusiasm and excitement for conducting scientific experiments.
Beyond that, the experience also made me realise that I like teaching,
63
YEUNG Yuen Hei

City University of Hong Kong Overseas Exchange
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Intellectually speaking, the academic rigour at the exchange school was
very refreshing. The genuine curiosity of the students towards learning
can be very commonly observed everywhere on campus. Besides
curiosity and engagement, students are also courageous to present
I wish to take this opportunity to express my each of their ideas for brainstorming and discussion. The open-minded
wholehearted gratitude to the sponsors of the environment certainly nurtures more curiosity and creativity. This is an
InnoTech Scholarship, without whose support, essential element of learning, where students are driven to discover
my learning experiences would not have been new knowledge independently while not being bound by curriculums.
This also highlights the learning attitude we should have, which will be
as fruitful. I have genuinely enjoyed the learning
helpful for my future endeavours.
experiences, being immersed in a vibrant
learning atmosphere which nurtured in me From my interactions with other international students, I learnt a
a curious attitude and assiduous dedication lot about different cultures with their similarities and contrasts. The
towards studies. underlying connections remind me of the differences in perspectives
with respect to not only cultures but personal preferences and ways of
thinking. As a result, it is vital to have mutual respect for one another,
in that we all may have our own points of view, and each is worthy of
appreciation and thorough consideration. Most importantly, we should
always nurture within ourselves the curiosity to discover new ideas and
the flexibility to accept them.
64
Mainland Study Tour justifications of method designs. As a result, I came to appreciate the
impartiality of ‘control experiments’ and ‘ablation studies’. Through
We visited the BYD office to see exhibits of their latest electric experimentation, results should be validated strictly according to
car prototypes and chatted with the representatives regarding the rational standards, with zero bias that can cause interference. On top
company’s recent developments. We then listened to panel discussions of the extensive knowledge of the functional mechanisms of the brain
with entrepreneurs who set up business in the Greater Bay Area, at for visual perception and inference, I gained the experience of project
the Shenzhen Social Welfare Foundation, and Shenzhen-Hong Kong procedures, including data collection and presentation preparation, each
Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Base. We heard inspirational of which requires dedication and diligence for the sake of academic
messages from the founders that as young people, given the energy rigour and to disseminate ideas clearly through concise communication.
and time, we should be daring to try out every possibility that we are
genuinely passionate about. It was rather motivating to us with respect Mentorship Programme
to the different policies by the mainland government that are catered
towards Hong Kong talents.
My mentors are Mr Brian Li from Gold Peak Technology Group Limited
and Mr John Hsu from HSBC (connected through the Hub for the Future
mentorship programme). I learnt a great deal of life advice from them in
terms of personal growth and career development. In the course of our
conversations, I was advised on time management, social interaction,
and life planning. I have significantly benefited from these chats and
received much guidance from my mentors, which I would not have
been offered otherwise.
In this Programme, I had a chance to mentor secondary students

through a social project about promoting the sustainable development
of Hong Kong, for which we needed to discuss raising public awareness
of ‘waste sorting’. Not only did the students possess ample curiosity to
do background research about the related environmental issues, they
were also creative in proposing innovative workarounds to the issues.
Innovative Research Project: Summer Research Project
Even though I was the one who taught and mentored juniors, all of these
This summer research project, titled 'Deep Learning-Based Antibody experiences were also lessons for me about the importance of certain
Specificity Prediction', studied the interaction between antibodies and attributes that help effective learning. The ability to learn is an essential
antigens. This relates to ‘immunology’, an impactful body of work that lifelong skill, as there is no end to it. With regard to my own challenges,
concerns the protection of the human body from foreign substances a lot of the associated tasks will require me to think the problem
such as pathogens. I was fortunate to be supervised by Professor through and formulate a solution in terms of scientific frameworks. In
Nicholas C. H. Wu from the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology of addition, problems in real life are open-ended, particularly in the field
the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. of research. Having these two characteristics will be substantial to our
future exploration and problem resolution for any future challenge.
The lesson I learnt was that with integration also comes discord.
Members may have disagreements over the choices of designs or
differences in expectations. In short, each of us is concerned with
particular aspects that others don't regard as important. In such cases,
I learnt the importance of pinpointing the source of divergence and
consulting each teammate regarding the significance of our different
perspectives. All in all, this summer research has been a meaningful
journey on which I have gained a lot of knowledge and, as a result, I am
equipped to be a better researcher for my future endeavours.
Final Year Project at NeurIPS 2022
My Final Year Project was conducted in the last three semesters of my

university degree, from which I gained many insights and aspirations
for my future career. Overall Evaluation
The effects of the research project journey were beneficial in a myriad I would not hesitate to call this a fruitful learning journey which I am
of ways. The ‘scientific method’ practice was the most valuable incredibly grateful for having experienced. I gained a lot as I learnt
technique I have acquired. Throughout the Final Year Project process, about foreign cultures from the overseas exchange programme and
I was exposed to the full cycle of systematic experimental procedure, acquired more in-depth knowledge from research projects on artificial
consisting of ‘observation’, ‘background research’, ‘hypothesis intelligence, as well as gaining social awareness from the Service
formulation’, ‘experimentation’, ‘analysis’, and ‘report’. Each of these Project Programme. This journey has definitely laid a solid foundation to
steps is integrally self-contained, contributing to the exhaustive get myself started with academic development.
methodical discovery. The procedures also come with a rigorous
mindset of constantly obeying the standard of fair comparisons and
65
• Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, the UK

• The UCLA Stein Eye Institute in Los Angeles, the US
• Embu Provincial Hospital in Embu, Kenya
• Adolescent Health Conference 2022 in Birmingham, the UK
• EMBA Annual Conference in Helsinki, Finland
• ARVO 2023 Conference in New Orleans, the US
Medical Knowledge & Clinical Skills
Moorfields Eye Hospital and the UCLA Stein Eye Institute are world-
renowned institutions in ophthalmology, and prized destinations for
aspiring medical students and practising ophthalmologists. After my
rotations, I could not agree more. Moorfields Eye Hospital is a very
specialised eye hospital which includes most if not all subspecialties
of ophthalmology. Being the best eye hospital in the UK, or possibly
in the world, the hospital gathers all kinds of cases in ophthalmology,
which are very beneficial to beginners in the field like me and even to
YUEN Lok Cheung, seasoned ophthalmologists.
Vincent The UCLA Stein Eye Institute also gathers dedicated ophthalmologists
within the US and overseas. Talents from across the world sharing
their expertise and experience was really illuminating to me. On the
other hand, although Embu Provincial Hospital is a resource-scarce
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery setting in a rural region, ophthalmologists there are in fact very skilled at
(Global Physician-Leadership Stream) optimising the limited resources and equipment available to deliver the
best outcomes for their patients.
The teaching environments at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the UCLA

Thanks to the InnoTech Scholarship 2021, I was Stein Eye Institute were also incomparable. Fellows, residents,
and consultants were more than willing to teach and give me the
able to participate in clinical attachments at
opportunities to practise. To my surprise, even patients were very
Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, the United willing for me to practise with them. I still vividly remember one day
Kingdom (UK); the UCLA Stein Eye Institute in when the morning clinic was very busy after a long weekend, and
Los Angeles, the United States (US); and Embu therefore I did not request to examine patients. After knowing that I
Provincial Hospital in Embu, Kenya. These was a medical student, the patients still volunteered to allow me to
practise. Every time I said thank you to patients after examining them,
experiences definitely broadened my exposure
I was so surprised that almost all of them replied with something like,
and widened my horizons. I would like to ‘This is how you learn, young man.’ I will not forget their heart-warming
express my heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors gestures.
and administrative staff of the Innovation and
Technology Scholarship Secretariat who made
this possible.
66
Medical Culture Personal Development and Future Plan
I had always heard that the primary care system in the UK is very When compared to ophthalmology departments in Hong Kong public
sophisticated, and I agree with this very much after spending five hospitals, Moorfields Eye Hospital, as a part of the National Health
weeks there. Every patient is assigned to a general practitioner, who Service in the UK, indeed has a lower patient load. However, I am
is in charge of referral and routine monitoring. Patients can turn to their also aware that the remuneration in the UK is far lower than that in
general practitioners for drug refill and routine monitoring, without Hong Kong. Meanwhile in the US, although doctors in general are well
having to visit ophthalmologists all the time for consultation and follow- paid, they also face a much higher burden from medical liability claims
up. The division of work between general practitioners and specialists and overhead costs. Because it is a privately funded system, financial
not only benefits doctors, as the workload can become lighter, but also factors become an important concern, and clinical judgement may not
patients as they can stay within their community, sparing the need to always be based on relevant guidelines and the latest evidence.
visit specialists in hospitals located far away.
Because of their fame in ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital

and the UCLA Stein Eye Institute attract residents and fellows from
all around the world. Residents and fellows often bring their practices
in their home country to Moorfields, where people can share their
thoughts and exchange ideas regarding patient care and treatment. I
believe these exchanges are very vital in the medical field as we all
aim to provide the best care to patients. A disadvantage, though, is
that this may result in slight differences in patient care from person
to person, especially those borderline cases which may have various
treatments across guidelines. Language barriers may sometimes be
present between local patients and residents or fellows from non-
English-speaking backgrounds.
A stark contrast also exists between my experiences at Moorfields Eye

Hospital and the UCLA Stein Eye Institute. Moorfields Eye Hospital
is located in the UK, where the medical system is publicly funded. Overall Evaluation
Therefore, medical costs are covered by the British government, and
patients seldom have to pay extra fees. The obvious advantage is that I have benefited tremendously from the Scholarship, which has
patients are very willing to seek consultation; but because resources supported my participation in clinical attachments in the UK, the US,
are from public expenses, patients have to be prioritised according and Kenya, and also three conferences in Finland, the UK, and the US.
to their medical needs and the resources available. Novel treatments These were truly rewarding experiences which have broadened my
may not always be provided due to cost effectiveness concerns. As horizons. Before I was awarded this Scholarship, my focus was mainly
for the UCLA Stein Eye Institute, because it is a private medical centre, on research. While research itself is important, correlating with real-
patients are either covered by insurance or pay from their own pocket. life clinical settings should be the ultimate goal. In order to produce
Therefore, the resources are significantly more abundant. Patients impactful research outcomes, a good understanding of the medical
are able to receive the latest treatments and interventions, with very systems beyond Hong Kong, such as the Mainland China and overseas,
prompt appointments and surgeries. is also crucial. With the support of this Scholarship, I was able to visit
prestigious overseas institutions to learn more about different medical
systems and transform such experiences to inspire my future research.
I strongly encourage interested students to apply for this Scholarship,
which will surely be a life-changing opportunity.
67
Introduction of ITC
Innovation and Technology Commission
Established in 2000, the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) of the HKSAR
Government strives to promote and support applied research and development, and
technology transfer and application; foster an innovation and technology (I&T) culture
in the community, and promote technological entrepreneurship; facilitate the provision
of infrastructure and development of human resources to support innovation and
technology; develop and implement Government’s policies, programmes and measures
to promote I&T; and promote internationally accepted standards and conformity
assessment services to underpin technological development and international trade etc.
68
Introduction of HSBC
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited is the founding member of
the HSBC Group. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 62 countries and
territories. With assets of US$2,990bn at 31 March 2023, HSBC is one of the world’s
largest banking and financial services organisations.
69
Introduction of HKFYG
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (hkfyg.org.hk | m21.hk)
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) was founded in 1960 and is
now the city’s largest youth service organisation. For the past six decades, it has been
committed to serving the youth of Hong Kong by providing a variety of services, activities
and programmes, which have an annual attendance of over six million. We encourage
youth to reach their fullest potential, and with community support, we now have over
90 service units. We also have 12 core services, which include the Youth S.P.O.Ts,
M21 Multimedia Services, Employment Services, Youth at Risk Services, Counselling
Services, Parenting Services, Leadership Training, Volunteer Services, Education
Services, Creativity Education and Youth Exchange, Leisure, Cultural and Sports
Services, and Research and Publications. Our aim is to motivate young people to grow
into responsible and dutiful citizens and we now have over 250,000 registered volunteers
and over 500,000 registered members. We believe that our motto HKFYG • Here for You
reaffirms our commitment and dedication to the young people of Hong Kong.
70
71
創新科技獎學金秘書處
Secretariat of Innovation and Technology Scholarship
(852) 2561 6149 (852) 2565 8345

it_scholarship@hkfyg.org.hk
香港青年協會
香港新界白石角香港科學園第一期 5W大樓2樓211室
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Unit 211, 2/F, Building 5W, Phase One, Hong Kong Science Park,
Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
香港青年協會總辧事處
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, Head Office
(852) 2527 2448 (852) 2528 2105

hq@hkfyg.org.hk hkfyg.org.hk
facebook.com/HKFYG
香港北角百福道21號香港青年協會大廈21樓
21/F, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Building
21 Pak Fuk Road, North Porint, Hong Kong
更多詳情，請瀏覽「創新科技獎學金」網頁。
For more information, please visit our website.
http://innotechscholarship.hkfyg.org.hk
會員平台義工搜尋器
下載青協 APP
Member portal Volunteer Search Engine
支持媒體
Supporting Media
在本刊物/ 活動內（或由項目小組成員）表達的任何意見、研究成果、結論或建議，並不代表香港特別行政區政府、創新科技署或創新及科技基金一般支援計劃評審委員會的觀點。
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material/ event (or by members of the project team) do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong
Special Administrative Region, the Innovation and Technology Commission or the Vetting Committee of the General Support Programme of the Innovation and Technology Fund.
Date of issue: November 2023

InnoTech Scholarship Awardee Report 2021

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2021

贊助及支持機構 全力支持 主辦機構

Innovation and Technology Scholarship

Mr CHOW Bak Yue, Matthew 周伯儒 Mr NG Chit Yui Jeffrey 吳哲睿

Mr WONG Ho Chi, Andy 黃皓智 Mr YUEN Lok Cheung, Vincent 袁樂彰

Miss WONG Tsz Yan, Cherry 黃梓欣

Miss WONG Wai Ning, Emily 黃慧寧

Miss WONG Wing Yan, Yanny 黃詠茵

Ir LAM Sai Hung, JP Mr LEE Chung Sin, Esmond, JP

Dr Brian LI Ms PUN Ting Ting, Rebecca, JP

Professor Timothy TONG, BBS, JP Professor Rosie YOUNG, GBM, GBS, JP

Mr William CHIU Dr Lucas HUI Chi Kwong

Ms PUN Ting Ting, Rebecca, JP Mr Simon WONG Kwong-yeung, MH

Mr Peter YAN King-shun, JP

Host Institution Destination Host Institution Destination

Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Malaysia Royal College of Paediatrics and Child UK

National University of Singapore Singapore Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory - USA

Professor Francis CHAN, SBS, JP 陳家亮教授 , SBS, JP Dr Brian LI 李耀祥博士

BEAMPLUSLAB Limited Insight Robotics Limited

Reports of 2021 Awardees

International Conference on Bioinformatics, Biomedicine,

Attending the International Conference on Bioinformatics,

Enrolling in the animal behaviour course at the University of

Overall, the experience of studying at a world-class university and

Healthcare Data Science and Data Analytics in Healthcare (level

The data science programme at University College London was

Service Project Programme

Electrophoresis & Vaccine Research and Development

Organising and instructing a workshop as part of the Service Project

Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme

Under the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic on

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Fundamentals and

The launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 represents a major paradigm

Despite being conducted in an online format, the seven-week

Asia-Pacific Neuroscience Student Congress 2021

I participated in the Asia-Pacific Neuroscience Student Congress

The conference introduced new hypotheses on the neuronal network

Service Project Programme

Education is an essential component of the city’s innovation and

Using a combination of videos, animations and hands-on activities,

I am deeply grateful to The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups,

During our meeting at the university, Professor Tam generously

Overseas/ Mainland Attachment Programme

With financial support from the Scholarship, I participated in an

CHAN Wing Lam, Vanora from my classmates and lecturers.

Being an exchange student, I was fortunate to have an opportunity

It was my honour to be selected as one of

This Scholarship is one of the greatest

Thanks to the InnoTech Scholarship, I was able to make my dreams

Having encountered these patients at the clinic at Oxford Eye Hospital,

My attachment at the Moorfields Eye Hospital has also provided

Conversely, the NHS has largely digitalised patient care, such as

Having worked as a house officer in the Hospital Authority in Hong

Second, I was able to learn from other InnoTech Scholars during

Artificial Intelligence in Health Care, Massachusetts Institute of

Coming from a non-technical major, it is hard for me to learn about

International Summer School, University of Cambridge

CHEUNG Yin Chi, Meryl

my passion in becoming an occupational

He encouraged me to expose myself to technology-related topics.

Local Internship Programme

Intern at Rehab-Robotics Company Ltd

贊助及支持機構全力支持主辦機構