Professor
Department of Computer Science
Throughout his 25 years of exceptional service in HKBU, Prof. Cheung Kwok Wai has consistently demonstrated unparalleled dedication and commitment to serving the University and the broader academic and professional community. In recent years, he has been instrumental in spearheading innovation in curriculum development and other projects that advance the University’s reputation. Meanwhile, his active involvement in varied public service speaks for his contribution to the greater good of society.
Since taking up his role as Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programmes) in 2021, Prof. Cheung has led the swift development of four transdisciplinary Bachelor’s degrees approved by University Grant Council. In reflection of the rapid expansion of such courses at HKBU, his role is retitled as Associate Vice-President (Transdisciplinary Education). In his early stage of career, he kept contributing to programme revamps within the Department of Computer Science to ensure the academic content is aligned with curriculums reference from leading professional bodies.
Prof. Cheung’s remarkable leadership extends to other innovation projects. These include the successful launch of the HKBU Metaverse in 2024, and the pilot run of a new GE required course in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Literacies for Social Good which adopted the flipped classroom approach. These projects are deeply rooted in his earlier involvement in developing a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on AI, and design thinking workshops.
He has initiated, and been involved directly in, several collaborative relationships. For instance, the NVIDIA AI Technology Centre which stems from a Research Grant Council Research Matching Grant project, is the first of its kind joint-research laboratory in Hong Kong. He is also actively collaborating with colleagues from key organisations including the Hong Kong Hospital Authority for health informatics, and the Hongkong Electric Company on a variety of data-driven projects.
Prof. Cheung actively participates in public service and the professional community. He has delivered talks on AI to a wide spectrum of audiences, including the Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists, the Hong Kong Science Museum, as well as distinguished high schools in Hong Kong. He has also been a keynote speaker at school speeches themed on the importance of innovation. In addition, he has managed a systems development team that developed web-based management systems for several HKBU departments and non-government organisations.
Furthermore, Prof. Cheung’s expertise in AI and data mining has garnered recognition among academic institutions and professional bodies. Currently, he is an Appointed Member for the Accreditation Committee for Computer Science Programmes for the Hong Kong Institute of Engineers. He is invited to serve as Research Advisor and a Panellist for the Expert Review Panel for the Hong Kong Research and Development Centre for Logistics and Supply Chain Management Enabling Technologies, and as a Member of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park Data Governance Think Tank.
With an unwavering dedication, leadership and extensive contributions, Prof. Cheung’s efforts have significantly raised the academic standing of the University and fostered valuable collaborations and exchanges with other academic institutions and the professional community. He is a truly deserving candidate for the President's Award for Outstanding Performance in Service.