In a recent episode of i-CABLE News’ program "InnoAction" (智創未來), Prof. QU Huamin, Dean of the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS) at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), shared a transformative vision for interdisciplinary education and research. Highlighting the Academy's strategic evolution since its elevation in 2023, Prof. Qu discussed talent cultivation through AIS’s innovative pedagogies, impactful Industry-Academia-Research collaborations, and the pioneering integration of “Liberal Arts + Technology” (博雅科技) in interdisciplinary education and research.

Through the cutting-edge interdisciplinary programs—ranging from Greater China’s first Individualized Interdisciplinary Program to the novel "Major+X" academic framework—students are able to develop deep expertise in more than one area and seamlessly integrate emerging hot topics such as artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability into their studies. Prof. Qu detailed how this forward-looking curriculum equips graduates with the practical and cross-disciplinary skill sets required to address multifaceted societal challenges through highly relevant, real-world applications.

Demonstrating AIS's commitment to translating research into tangible social impact, Prof. Qu discussed the recent launch of an advanced AI-powered English assessment and learning system for secondary school students, alongside the AI Film Festival hosted over the past two years. These pioneering initiatives perfectly encapsulate how frontier interdisciplinary research bridges the gap with industry, fostering deep synergy between academic research and real-world practice to directly benefit the wider community.

Looking ahead, Prof. Qu shared the aspirations driving the future of the Academy, with a strong focus on building a cohesive identity for the AIS community. This vision is anchored in an interdisciplinary learning approach that utilizes AI and human-centric design thinking to transcend traditional academic boundaries, complemented by a deep commitment to cultivating an awareness of pressing social issues and the seamless integration of “Liberal Arts + Technology” to foster a unique, supportive environment where students from diverse crossover pathways feel a profound sense of belonging. In today’s rapidly evolving AI era, Prof. Qu emphasized that the strength of the AIS community lies in nurturing these talents, who possess both the humanistic insight and the technological prowess to shape a better future together.

Read the full interview (11m18s to 23m30s): https://hoy.tv/title/27121