The Digital Age Offers New Opportunities for the Development of History

In line with HKSYU’s active promotion of Digital Humanities, Professor HE Qiliang, Head of the Department of History, firmly believes that the digital age represents a transformative turning point for historical studies.

Professor HE points out that the department’s staff and students are well positioned to contribute rich, evidence-based historical resources to digital platforms. Moreover, in an age of information overload, the ability to distinguish fact from misinformation is more important than ever. Historical training cultivates precisely this form of critical literacy, equipping students with the analytical skills needed to navigate today’s complex information landscape.

In response to the growing emphasis on cultural outreach from both Chinese mainland and Hong Kong, Professor HE stated that the department will expand its curriculum across world history, Chinese history, urban studies, and international relations. This will allow students to become thoughtful leaders in the digital and humanistic future of Hong Kong.

Highlighting the distinct features of the academic team, Professor HE noted that the faculty—comprising both full-time and parttime members who are young, dynamic, and highly specialised—covers a wide range of expertise, including ancient Chinese history, modern and contemporary history, urban history, Hong Kong studies, and international relations, forming a community that values both teaching and academic research.

Faculty members are active academically, publishing in reputable journals, while also prioritising knowledge transfer—converting research findings into public history projects, teaching materials, and community workshops. This ensures that academic knowledge benefits society and embodies Shue Yan’s liberal arts spirit. The team also excels in small-group seminars, field studies, and project-based learning to nurture students’ critical thinking and social awareness.

As someone only a few years younger than HKSYU, Professor HE feels deeply honoured to witness this milestone—from its early days as a college to its present stature. “May SYU continue to uphold the motto, ‘Cultivating virtues of benevolence; broadening horizon and knowledge,’ and shine in the digital age. I look forward to our 60th anniversary and am confident that the University will reach even greater heights and nurture more talents with global perspectives and social conscience for Hong Kong and the nation,” he said.