Five faculty members from Hong Kong Shue Yan University (HKSYU) presented their research at a Workshop and Poster Session on the Competitive Research Funding Schemes (CRFS) for the Local Self-financing Degree Sector organised by the Research Grants Council (RGC) on 24 November 2025.

Dr Alex LI Wang-on, Associate Academic Vice President (University Research); Professor Rita LI Yi-man from Department of Economics and Finance; Dr Edward TANG Chi-ho, Associate Head of Department of Economics and Finance; and Dr Kitty MO Yuen-han, Associate Professor of Department of Social Work, showcased findings from projects supported by the Faculty Development Scheme (FDS) under the Competitive Research Funding Schemes for the Local Self-financing Degree Sector. The workshop was an invaluable platform for sharing experiences and engaging in professional exchanges on research innovations and achievements, bringing together over 200 academics to promote a vibrant exchange of ideas.

Professor LI is leading a team working to enhance safety awareness among construction workers by developing a chatbot. The chatbot is currently being used in a research study that trains workers and evaluates whether the training enables them to identify hazards more quickly. However, she noted that the greatest challenge lies in recruiting participants. Public concerns about privacy remain a significant barrier, and even financial incentives may not be sufficient to encourage participation.

HKSYU has successfully secured over HK$8.9 million in funding for 14 FDS research projects through the RGC’s 2025/26 Competitive Research Funding Schemes for the Local Self-financing Degree Sector. This year’s number of successful projects marks a record high in a single round since the CRFS’s introduction.