The third Hong Kong Science Fair offered a mega showcase of ingenious inventions by local talent and drew a record 30,000-strong attendance
- Hong Kong’s young talent of innovation and technology unleashed their potential on this nurturing platform, which also serves as an established launchpad for innovation.
- The organiser of HKSF continues to inspire local talent by launching them onto the international stage and sponsoring the top teams to enter the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva in Switzerland.
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The HKSF has become a grand and dynamic event, featuring an array of innovative hardware prototypes, family-friendly scientific interactive zones, and a showcase of cutting-edge inventions by local I&T institutions. The event is an exemplary community-driven initiative that promotes the popularisation of science and technology in the city.
This energetic platform was abuzz with visitors of all ages and nationalities, interacting with the participating teams. Many were captivated by the creative solutions demonstrated, marvelling at the young inventors’ ingenuity, insightful observations, and impressive problem-solving abilities. Meanwhile, eager student participants engaged with visitors, inviting them to their prototype demonstrations and distributing souvenirs. The excitement among the participating teams was palpable, because the three Gold Award-winning teams would go on to join an international innovation event – the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva.
Visitors were also keen to support their favourite inventions, casting votes for the Most Popular Award. A large crowd was excited to pose next to the cutting-edge technological innovations displayed by local institutes.
HKSF has emerged as a recognised launchpad for young I&T talent in Hong Kong, aligning with the Government’s long-term goal of transforming the city into a sustainable international I&T hub.
For the third year running, the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation (HKIF) has organised the HKSF, supported by the Sino Group. The event has also received support from Cyberport, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node, and over 40 partners from various societal sectors.
Government and international support
Since its launch in 2021, the HKSF has received unwavering support from both the Hong Kong and Central Governments. The award ceremony was graced by Professor Sun Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, and Mr Zhang Zhihua, Director General of the Youth Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, who attended as guests-of-honour.
Endorsing the HKSF, Professor Sun highlighted that one of the eight key strategies in the “Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint” is fostering a culture of I&T for all. He emphasised that popularising science not only enhances the overall I&T atmosphere in the community but also facilitates long-term I&T development. “The Hong Kong Science Fair, through the competition format, encourages students to apply science to address real-life challenges with the innovative and people-oriented approach. The Government has been making substantial efforts to promote STEM education, and the promotion by the community is also crucial. Today's Science Fair serves as a commendable demonstration of how community-driven initiatives can promote the popularisation of science and technology. The enthusiastic participation and vibrant atmosphere onsite indicate the success of this well-received science event,” said Professor Sun.
Dr Daryl Ng, SBS, JP, Chairman of the HKIF, echoed Professor Sun’s sentiment, saying, “We are delighted that the HKSF has received widespread support and participation and is able to play a role in inspiring the I&T journey of young innovators. I noticed that many parents participated in the event with their children today, aiming to nurture their interest and capability in I&T. I look forward to seeing these young people utilise technology and an innovative mindset to contribute to society in the future, injecting fresh vitality into Hong Kong's I&T ecosystem.
Amidst the students’ thunderous applause, HKIF would once again elevate the Gold Award winners to the global stage by sponsoring their participation in the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, Switzerland. This initiative aims to cultivate a global outlook among Hong Kong’s young innovators, providing them with firsthand exposure to cutting-edge inventions and facilitating idea exchange with global innovators.
The Geneva exhibition, a distinguished event that showcases the latest inventions, recently concluded its 49th edition. It featured over 1,000 inventions primarily from start-ups and scientific institutions across approximately 40 countries and regions. Mr David Taji-Farouki, President of the Geneva exhibition’s jury, attended the HKSF for the second time to express his support.
Mr Taji-Farouki commended Hong Kong’s young innovators for their unique awareness of current social issues, keen observational and problem identification skills, and their determination and ingenuity to devise creative and practical solutions. “The top three teams of HKSF will gain invaluable experience at the upcoming Geneva exhibition,” he said. Besides demonstrating their inventions and answering visitors’ queries, he encouraged the teams to interact and exchange ideas with adult inventors worldwide, which would provide them with a unique perspective and a broader vision.
The Junior Secondary Division’s Gold Award-winning team from Pui Shing Catholic Secondary School was ecstatic about the prospect of joining the Geneva exhibition. Team member Tsui Wai-shun expressed the team’s eagerness to exchange ideas with global I&T professionals and start-ups. Despite some nerves, the team plans to enhance their communication and presentation skills in preparation for the exhibition. They also aim to improve their invention’s viability—a device assisting the elderly with health issues in dressing—by minimising its size, strengthening its structure, and refining their presentation for precision and persuasiveness.
Tsui, who has never travelled outside Asia, also views this as a great opportunity for cultural exposure.
Promoting I&T culture
Throughout the event, in addition to exploring first-hand the latest inventions by the participating students, eager parents and children queued up to join in the fun at the interactive zones. Immersed in laughter and photo-taking, they engaged in activities designed to blend learning with entertainment.
.JPG?itok=pYun4PQN "The HKSF provided immersive interactive activities blending science and entertainment for children and parents.")
Mrs Yau accompanied her 11-year-old son Benny to the HKSF. “Benny is interested in science competitions featuring secondary school teams. We’re pleased to see that HKSF includes entries of diverse themes and applications, with a balanced participation of boys and girls.”
“Benny will start secondary school next academic year and he is keen to understand the science projects undertaken by secondary students, their approaches, and the latest trends. We’ve taken many photos,” added Mrs Yau.
Hong Kong depends on its next generation to evolve into a sustainable international I&T hub. By inspiring young I&T talent and providing a nurturing platform, the HKSF has contributed to promoting the I&T culture in the community.
