Hong Kong Shue Yan University (HKSYU) has achieved remarkable success in the Research Grants Council (RGC)’s 2024/25 Competitive Re-search Funding Schemes for the Local Self-Financing Degree Sector (CRFS). The University has its largest number of funded projects since the schemes’ launch in 2013, receiving a total of HK$8.8 million to support 13 research projects.

All 13 projects are rooted in the humanities and social sciences discipline, aligning with the University’s mission to advance Digital Humanities and reinvent liberal arts education for the digital age.

Of the 13 approved projects, 11 fall under the Faculty Development Scheme (FDS), with funding ranging from HK$540,000 to HK$890,000 for durations of 18 to 24 months. The remaining two projects are part of the Inter-Institutional Development Scheme (IIDS). HKSYU achieved higher-than-average success rates for both schemes – 32% for FDS and an impressive 67% for IIDS – reflecting our faculty and researchers’ dedication and the University’s commitment to fostering a vibrant research culture.

Dr Alex LI, HKSYU Associate Academic Vice President (University Research), said the number of applications in the recent round marked a record high in a decade, underscoring the synergy between teaching and research at the University. He also noted that HKSYU achieved the highest success rate among participating institutions in the Social Sciences and Humanities panel, with over 40% of its applications receiving funding—well above the sector average of 27%.

Dr. LI highlighted the importance of collaboration as many research projects require interdisciplinary cooperation. The Research Office will continue to encourage cross-disciplinary initiatives to spark new ideas and create impactful research outcomes.

Looking ahead, he hoped the research projects will integrate with teaching development and new curriculum offerings, particularly in areas such as arts, technology and digital media.

Source: January 2025 Issue