Data Science at HKSYU: Empowering Innovation, Research and Future Talent

As HKSYU’s first and only department dedicated to applied data science, the Department of Data Science and Digital Innovation actively drives the University’s strategic direction through cutting edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, industry-aligned curricula, and outstanding teaching, while also nurturing student talent and broadening digital humanities education across the institution.

How does the Department of Data Science and Digital Innovation support the University’s development direction?

Professor LAU Kung-wong, Head of Department, stated that the Department enhances research capabilities and fosters students’ interdisciplinary and digital competencies. It actively promotes the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, extended reality (XR), and robotic programming, for both teaching and research purposes.

To support these goals, the Department has continually enhanced its learning and research facilities, including the Big Data Laboratory, Virtual Reality Laboratory, Game Development Laboratory, Social Robotics and Digital Living Laboratory, and other advanced spaces. Curricula are regularly reviewed to align with industry needs, embedding relevant knowledge and professional competencies across programmes.

To broaden Digital Humanities education at HKSYU, the Department has expanded beyond its flagship BSc (Hons) in Applied Data Science, which continues to attract strong interest. New programmes include the BSc (Hons) in Digital Solutions for Entertainment and Game Applications and the MSc in Game Development and Management, integrating technological innovation with creative and interdisciplinary applications.

Distinctive Features of the Academic and Supporting Team

The Department is supported by a multidisciplinary team of 11 full-time academic staff, 2 honorary and adjunct professors, 2 administrative staff, 3 laboratory managers and 2 part-time lecturers and 1 research assistant, totalling 21 members. Expertise falls into three areas:
(1) Data Science and Big Data Analytics, (2) Gaming and Digital Innovation, and (3) AI and Robotic Programming.

Research excellence is reflected in scholarly contributions. In the last academic year, staff has completed and implemented 17 research projects in digital humanities related areas and produced 67 scholarly outputs, including journal articles, books, chapters, and conference papers, demonstrating strong research capacity and commitment to innovation.

Teaching excellence is equally central. Academic colleagues integrate emerging technologies and innovative pedagogies into the curriculum, enabling students to develop theoretical knowledge and
professional skills. This recognition, the Teaching Excellence Award, goes to our Associate Head of Department, Dr Muhammad AZHAR. Students have also achieved success in external competitions, notably in the AI Innovation Track of the Huawei ICT Competition, where projects gained recognition for creativity and technical excellence. In the past year, 57 students earned Google professional certifications through extracurricular training.

Anniversary Greetings
For more than 55 years, HKSYU has upheld whole-person education, academic excellence, and the cultivation of socially responsible graduates, gaining international recognition. Professor LAU wishes HKSYU continued success in advancing scholarship, embracing innovation, and nurturing future leaders. May HKSYU continue to thrive and make meaningful contributions to Hong Kong, the nation, and the global community for many years to come.