From advancing quantum-era readiness and AI adoption to supporting the next generation of trade leaders, the School is fostering innovation and developing talent to create lasting impact across industries and society.
Advancing Banks’ Readiness for the Quantum Era
The School is co-leading the development of a Post- Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Toolkit with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) to help banks prepare for the cybersecurity challenges arising from advances in quantum computing.
Led by Professor Allen HUANG, Head of the Department of Accounting, the initiative brings together expertise from HKUST’s business and engineering schools across finance, cybersecurity, and cryptography. The toolkit will equip banks with practical frameworks and guidance to identify transition priorities, plan their migration to post-quantum cryptography, and build cryptographic agility, thereby strengthening their preparedness for future quantum-related risks.
Study: AI Adoption Goes Mainstream in the Workplace
Hong Kong’s AI+ strategy places a strong emphasis on developing AI-ready talent to enhance long-term competitiveness. Reflecting this momentum, a study led by Professor TAM Kar-Yan, HKUST Vice-President for Administration and Business and Chair Professor of Information Systems, Business Statistics and Operations Management (ISOM), examined the adoption of AI in the workplace and found that more than 70% of Hong Kong professionals use AI tools daily or weekly, far exceeding the global average of 31%.
Among regular users, generative AI is the most widely adopted application, with more than 80% using it frequently for document drafting, information analysis, and creative ideation.
Bridging HK’s AI Workforce Gap
A study of Hong Kong’s AI talent market by the Center for Business and Social Analytics (CBSA) revealed structural mismatches in skills, experience, and the industry ecosystem, underscoring the need for a more balanced talent market.
One notable gap is the shortage of experienced professionals capable of leading AI implementation projects. Led by CBSA Director Professor YANG Yi of the Department of ISOM, the research team recommended that the city attract more practitioners with applied expertise while strengthening training programs that prepare talent for real-world AI deployment.
HKUST and HKMA Explore AI-Driven AML and CFT Solutions
The School and the HKMA co-hosted a workshop on the adoption of AI in anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). The event attracted more than 200 participants, including representatives from licensed banks, industry professionals, and HKUST faculty members and students.
Focusing on how financial institutions can move beyond efficiency-driven applications to harness AI for predictive and preventive risk detection, the workshop featured expert presentations and a panel discussion involving representatives from leading banks. The event reinforced the School’s role as a convening platform where academic research and industry practice come together to address emerging challenges and opportunities.
New Scholarship Supports Future Global Trade Leaders
The School and the Hinrich Foundation have joined hands to launch a new scholarship program to nurture future leaders in global trade. This marks the start of a three-year strategic partnership in talent development. The HKUST MBA-Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarships will fund nine scholarships of HK$350,000 each for full-time MBA students who are committed to advancing sustainable and mutually beneficial global trade. Beyond financial assistance, recipients will gain valuable opportunities to expand their professional networks and deepen their industry knowledge.
