Prof. QU Huamin, Dean of HKUST Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS), has recently been interviewed on a Shenzhen TV program hosted by professional WeiQi player Ms. XU Ying. The interview offered a unique glimpse into Prof. Qu's enthusiasm for the ancient Chinese board game, WeiQi, and its influence on his life and academic pursuits.

Tracing his enthusiasm back to his university days in the 1980s, Prof. Qu eloquently described WeiQi's allure: its elegant simplicity masking profound complexity. He highlighted how the game's basic rules, combined with its infinite possibilities, embody the concept of "great wisdom in simplicity." 

As both a computer scientist and a WeiQi enthusiast, Prof. Qu offered insightful comments on the impact of artificial intelligence, such as AlphaGo, on the game. While acknowledging the transformative effect of AI on WeiQi analysis, he maintained that the human element in the game would add depth and interest to matches.

Drawing parallels between WeiQi and life, Prof. Qu emphasized the game's lessons in patience, perseverance, and adaptability. These qualities are invaluable in academic careers, helping researchers face challenges and fostering resilience among students. He even likened WeiQi strategies to his approach in building a research team at HKUST, stressing the importance of establishing a strong foundation before pursuing immediate results.

Emphasizing WeiQi's capacity to teach strategic thinking and its philosophical depth, Prof. QU expressed hope that more people would discover the game's beauty in our fast-paced world.

Earlier in July 2024, AIS co-hosted the 2nd "Four Seas Cup" Hong Kong International University Student WeiQi Competition. The event brought together 14 teams from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, fostering international cultural exchange.

At the opening ceremony, Prof. Qu announced HKUST's upcoming credit-bearing course on WeiQi and Chinese culture - a first for Hong Kong universities, taught by Ms. Xu Ying. This marks an innovative approach to education, blending traditional culture with modern academic pursuits.

Watch the interview (in Chinese) here: 

Part 1 

Part 2