The "1+1+1" joint seed fund pool was officially launched on 11 September 2024 at UIC, marking a significant collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province, UIC, and Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). Over 140 individuals attended the event in person and online, including UIC President Prof Chen Zhi and HKBU President and Vice-Chancellor Prof Alexander Wai.
Group photo
The "1+1+1" joint funding scheme, set to run from 2024 to 2026, will see each party contribute annually: The Department of Science and Technology with RMB 10 million, and UIC and HKBU with no less than RMB 10 million and HKD 10 million respectively. The cumulative seed fund over the three years will amount to approximately RMB 90 million. This fund will be used to deepen tech cooperation, with a focus on research in strategic areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary applications.
The commencement of this scheme signifies a further deepening of educational cooperation between Guangdong and Hong Kong. UIC President Prof Chen Zhi said that UIC will continue deepening its research cooperation with HKBU, aligning with national development strategies and responding to significant technological needs in society. This joint funding scheme will further promote innovation cooperation between Guangdong and Hong Kong, laying the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in scientific and technological innovation.
UIC President Prof Chen Zhi
HKBU Vice-President (Research and Development) Prof Lyu Aiping noted that the launch of the pool has opened a new chapter in research cooperation between the two institutions, marking a significant step towards academic development, technological innovation, and societal progress. He expressed his anticipation for it to foster further collaboration in talent cultivation, research enhancement, and the production of high-level research outcomes.
HKBU Vice-President (Research and Development) Prof Lyu Aiping
Speaking on the specifics of the research cooperation, UIC Vice President (Research and Development) Prof Pan Jianxin outlined the cooperation plan to the researchers from both institutions, including the project management process, the joint research teams and the criteria for project evaluation. He encouraged them to seize this opportunity and contribute to the regional scientific innovation.
UIC Vice President (Research and Development) Prof Pan Jianxin
Researchers participate in the meeting actively
From MPRO
Reporter: Cecilia Yu
Photographer: Season Li
Editor: Deen He
