The Hongkong Prize is One of Asia’s Premier Prizes
The hongkong prize is an honor bestowed to scientists who have made contributions that impact society, making it one of Asia’s premier prizes. The award is open to researchers worldwide and the judging process is rigorously free of sponsorship and special committee influences. This contest attracts thousands of applicants each year, and winning scientists receive cash awards as well as access to Hong Kong’s top research facilities. Notable finalists have included an entrepreneur who created a mobile shelter to assist homeless adults and a scientist who developed liquid biopsy.
Winners of this prestigious award will be invited to present their work at a ceremony held at City University of Hong Kong. The ceremony is an opportunity for winning scientists to showcase their accomplishments and gain exposure to potential investors. This prestigious award also provides a platform for scientists to network with other scientists around the world and expand their careers.
The Hong Kong Prize was established in 2005 to honour individuals who demonstrate the spirit of humanity through their deeds, with the aim of encouraging more people to live this spirit and care for their neighbours. In the past 10 years, over 90 individuals have been commended for their humanitarian contributions in various areas, including protecting human life, caring for the health of the vulnerable and respecting human dignity.
China Daily’s senior reporter Kate Li Bingcun won the top award in the news report category for her three-piece culture series, which covered Hong Kong’s efforts to become a culture and arts hub, including the shipping of cultural relics from Beijing to Hong Kong and showcasing them in innovative ways. Her story about an ardent art fan who is committed to the restoration of cultural relics in his post-retirement life was especially moving and garnered a second runner-up award in the category.
Winners of the HK Prize are given a chance to share their findings with an audience of leading scientists from around the world at the awards ceremony. They are expected to make a presentation on their research, highlighting the significance of their achievements and the benefits to society at large. The judging panel also considers the overall impact of each submission, such as its level of scientific innovation and the extent to which it has been applied in practical applications.
The HK Prize is the first of its kind in Hong Kong. The competition enhances students’ interest in history and their independent thinking by helping them work out topics, gather information and formulate reports. The competition is co-organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Museum of History. It is also supported by the Friends of the late Professor Wang Gungwu and other donors.