The Hongkong Prize is one of the world’s most esteemed prizes, awarded annually to scholars in the humanities who have made significant contributions to research on Hong Kong and achieved early career success. Established since 1997 at the International Convention of Asia Scholars book prize family conference where books by scholars, civil society representatives and practitioners are displayed and exchanged;
The award is intended to recognize and encourage young talent from Hong Kong and to foster further contributions toward its development. It’s open to anyone in Greater Bay Area between 18-30, living and residing in Hong Kong at time of submission – this year alone it received over 300 submissions covering areas as diverse as creative arts, technology, healthcare and public administration.
Winners will receive cash prizes of up to HK$10,000 and an opportunity to participate in a global mentorship programme to further advance their careers. Anyone with an idea on “Building an Official Development Assistance program in Hong Kong” can submit them at www.generocity.hk until December 30.
Paul Chan, Hong Kong’s financial secretary, acknowledged local newspapers for their vital roles during the pandemic and encouraged them to uphold high standards as protectors of free information that will foster Hong Kong’s long-term development.
Ng Siew Chien of the University of Hong Kong became the inaugural female awardee since the establishment of the BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize in 2022. She won Life and Science awards for noninvasive tests to diagnose autism spectrum disorder; other winners came from Chinese University of Hong Kong, University of Macau, Hong Kong Polytechnic University or other schools and were recognized for innovations such as phase engineering of nanomaterials, 3D microfabrication processes and innovative data/AI security technologies.
On Saturday, Hong Kong pianist Aristo Sham became its inaugural champion at the 17th Van Cliburn international piano competition held in the US, receiving both a gold medal and cash prize of US$100,000 (HK$784,800). As well as receiving the prize money, the pianist will also benefit from a three-year career management programme and performance attire provided by US department store chain Neiman Marcus. With these opportunities at his disposal, he may soon become one of the premier pianists both domestically and abroad while further expanding Hong Kong’s cultural influence worldwide. No doubt his victory was celebrated by media and even Pui Ching Middle School – an accomplishment and encouragement for youth alike. But some experts remain wary, saying the massive prize could actually encourage youngsters to start gambling: “[If there is] much publicity surrounding winning this prize then this may serve as propaganda and encourage both normal as well as pathological gambling” according to associate professor John Tse Wing-ling from University of Hong Kong.