Aside from monetary awards, the hongkong prize can open doors to opportunities in one of Asia’s most vibrant science hubs. Winners will be able to collaborate with world-class scientists, access top research facilities and attend global conferences pertinent to their field. They will also have an opportunity to present their work at an award ceremony in Hong Kong.
The prize is designed to recognize scientific researchers with innovative discoveries that have significant societal ramifications, and encourage their leadership in Hong Kong. The prizes will be presented in four fields (artificial intelligence/robotics; life and health sciences; physical science materials and new energy; advanced manufacturing and FinTech), with no more than five persons or teams awarded in each field annually.
This year’s nominations include activists fighting for freedom and democracy, such as Jimmy Lai and Chow Hang-tung, who were arrested or jailed in their pursuit of justice; community service initiatives, including a young man using technology to help homeless individuals and a charity that repurposes food waste to support the hungry; and arts practitioners interpreting human rights concepts through fine art techniques. The winners will be honoured at an awards ceremony in October.
Those interested in applying for the prize can visit the World of Winners splash page beginning March 1 to enter. The application process will be conducted in three waves, with Southeast Asian residents submitting first, followed by mainland Chinese and international applicants.
The BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize is an independent merit-based award sponsored by the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, with a view to attracting global top science talent to Hong Kong, nurturing forward-looking scientists and together making Hong Kong an international science and technology hub. The prize will be awarded in four fields (artificial intelligence/robotics; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Science Materials and New Energy; Advanced Manufacturing and FinTech), with no more than five scientists/teams to be awarded in each field annually.
The Hong Kong Prize shines a spotlight on unsung heroes who are helping to shape our city’s role as an energetic international center of culture and innovation. From a young artist who uses her talents to serve the needy to an entrepreneur who created a start-up that helps the blind navigate the streets, they all share a common thread of compassion and dedication. Their stories are a reminder that the human spirit can overcome obstacles, regardless of how big or small. They have a profound impact on our society and the future of humanity. They are the true inspiration behind this year’s theme, Our Changing World. Their achievements are our pride.
