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HKBU School of Business Co-Hosts Youth Digital Empowerment Programme with HKyIGF

2 Aug, 2024

HKBU School of Business Co-Hosts Youth Digital Empowerment Programme with HKyIGF HKBU School of Business Co-Hosts Youth Digital Empowerment Programme with HKyIGF

The HKBU School of Business, in collaboration with the HK Youth Internet Governance Forum (HKyIGF), hosted a full-day youth digital empowerment programme on 27th July, 2024. Centered around the theme “Prompting a SMART Digital Economy”, the programme not only highlighted the latest technological trends and global Internet governance developments, it also explored the opportunities, risks, and discussions surrounding Internet governance worldwide, and how these factors impact Hong Kong’s journey towards becoming a Smart City.

The programme brought together over 30 promising digital natives to share their thoughts about the Internet and to hone their skills to take a stand on the shared digital future. It emphasised that cities can only truly be smart by being S.M.A.R.T. – Sustainable, Multistakeholder-involved, Accountable, Resilient, and Trusted. To spread this message, the day featured gamified and capacity-building workshops, open dialogues, expert sharing sessions, and thematic discussions, shedding light on current technological advancements and the evolving landscape of Internet governance.

Among the distinguished speakers were Dr. Monique WAN, Associate Dean (Taught Postgraduate Studies), and Mr. Ryan MAN, Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies). They presented on the topic “Shaping the Digital Future: The Economics and Governance of Tech Public Policy,” sparking engaging discussions crucial for the progress of the digital economy.

Other inspiring experts included Mr. Timothy TAM, Associate Director, CEO Office, Hong Kong Science and Technology Corporation (HKSTP) and Former Head of Public Policy & Government Affairs, Google Hong Kong. Drawing from his extensive experience in tech policy, Mr. TAM emphasised the significance of public and private partnerships in advancing the digital economy. Additional sessions provided insights into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the Internet (protocol and its infrastructure), AI regulatory approaches, government advisory roles, and tech careers, offering young participants diverse perspectives from the private and public sectors, technical and academic communities, and civil society.

Throughout the event, networking opportunities and open dialogues facilitated the exchange of ideas, sharing of questions, and collaborative interactions among attendees and speakers, fostering a vibrant and inclusive forum atmosphere.

Mr. Kenneth LEUNG, the main organiser of the event, Advisor at the Asia Pacific Policy Observatory (APPO), and an HKBU School of Business alum with a BBA in Marketing, played a pivotal role in bringing this impactful event to life, providing a platform for young digital natives to engage with experts and peers. This initiative contributes significantly to shaping a S.M.A.R.T digital future for Hong Kong and beyond.

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