The BOCHK Prize 2024 and the Pulitzer Prize 2021

Five scientists from Hong Kong universities have won the BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize 2024, an honor recognized by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited that honors exceptional scientific researchers for their significant accomplishments and impactful contribution towards R&D outcomes in Hong Kong.

Research projects of the winners span across numerous areas, such as artificial intelligence and robotics, life and health sciences, new materials and energy solutions, advanced manufacturing, fintech, advanced manufacturing processes and fintech. Winners will not only receive a prize of HK$2 million but will be invited to take part in various events designed to showcase their research while further strengthening Hong Kong’s technology and innovation scene.

Robotics innovation includes patents granted to the winning team for in-sensor computing paradigms that allow artificial vision sensors to perform information processing directly within them, thus decreasing computational burden and improving data transmission efficiency. This enables computers to process images much more rapidly than before, leading to the creation of virtual reality applications.

Professor Fan Zhiyong from HKU’s Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering received the Xplorer Prize for his innovative research at the forefront of basic sciences and advanced interdisciplinary studies. His groundbreaking work could transform industries throughout Greater Bay Area including biomedical engineering, aerospace and defence.

On the other hand, Chinese netizens reacted strongly against Reuters winning a Pulitzer Prize for its biased reporting of pro-Beijing protests in 2019. Sina Weibo saw 11.7 million views for #PulitzerPrize2021 with many comments asserting that its credibility had been damaged after awarding such an unworthy company with such an accolade.

This year, the HK Phil will continue its celebration of music’s power with special concerts that showcase some of its beloved works. We would like to express our deepest thanks and appreciation to Hong Kong SAR Government, principal patron Swire Group and all music-lovers in Hong Kong who support our efforts and look forward to providing more quality musical experiences in future years. Furthermore, we are immensely thankful to all donors who have helped us meet our goals and create more opportunities for music lovers – you can read about more of our fundraising activities here. As we are non-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers, all donations are tax deductible!