HKU IDEI Co-hosts 2026 Greater Bay Area AI Innovation Alliance Forum (Spring)
The Greater Bay Area (GBA) continues to emerge as one of the most dynamic hubs for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation in China. To further strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, the 2026 GBA AI Innovation Alliance Forum (Spring) was successfully held on January 22–23, 2026, at Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou South Campus).
The forum was jointly organized by leading institutions across the region, including the HKU Institute of Digital Economy and Innovation (IDEI), alongside partners from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), CUHK Business School, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Sun Yat-sen University, and South China University of Technology.
Representing HKU IDEI, Prof. Yulin Fang and his research team actively participated in the forum, engaging in discussions on AI innovation, digital economy development, and interdisciplinary research collaboration.
The event brought together over 50 scholars and students from top universities and research institutions, fostering vibrant academic exchange on cutting-edge topics in AI, including innovation ecosystems, industrial applications, and governance challenges in the age of generative AI.
A key highlight of the forum was the industry visit on January 23 to JiaDu Technology Group, where participants explored real-world AI applications. Discussions covered topics such as:
- AI-driven enterprise strategy and organizational transformation
- New product development models based on generative AI
- Smart city and large-scale intelligent transportation systems
- AI-enabled industrial upgrading and governance frameworks
This engagement further strengthened the connection between academic research and industry practice, aligning with IDEI’s mission to promote impactful knowledge exchange.
The forum was supported by multiple academic and industry partners, as well as major national research funding initiatives. Looking ahead, the next GBA AI Innovation Alliance Forum (Autumn 2026) will be hosted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen).
HKU IDEI remains committed to advancing AI and digital economy research through regional and global collaboration, contributing to innovation-driven development in the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
The IDEI × MIT Digital Health Bootcamp united students, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders to explore the transformative potential of digital health in advancing longevity. Through dynamic workshops, cross-cultural collaboration, and expert-led sessions, participants delved into how technologies like wearables, AI platforms, and telemedicine can empower individuals to proactively manage their health and age with dignity.
The bootcamp emphasized digital health’s pivotal role in reshaping healthcare systems and individual wellness. Discussions centered on preventative care, where wearable devices and AI-driven tools enable real-time tracking of vital signs, fostering early detection of health issues and timely interventions. Participants explored how AI algorithms can personalize health management by analyzing vast datasets to generate tailored recommendations for diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments, thereby optimizing long-term health outcomes.
A significant focus was placed on remote monitoring and telemedicine, which bridge gaps in healthcare access for remote populations and individuals with mobility challenges. The role of digital platforms in enhancing social connection and cognitive well-being was also highlighted, with examples such as educational apps and online communities that combat isolation and support mental health in aging populations. Additionally, the bootcamp underscored how digital solutions streamline healthcare workflows, reduce costs, and democratize access through mobile applications and smart home technologies, ensuring equitable care for all.
Collaboration took center stage as teams of Hong Kong-based and international students worked together to develop innovative prototypes. These projects addressed pressing issues in elderly care, including AI-powered wellness platforms and wearable devices designed for fall detection and emergency response.
The event also provided unparalleled networking opportunities, connecting attendees with faculty from MIT, HKU, and industry pioneers. These interactions offered insights into cutting-edge research, ethical considerations in AI, and emerging trends in digital health.
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