The BOCHK Student of the Year and Science and Technology Innovation Prizes
In an effort to boost the quality of the jockeys in Hong Kong’s racetracks, the Jockey Club has introduced a bonus scheme that will reward the trainer who gets the most points for their horses. The top-winning trainer will win HK$200,000, the runner-up HK$100,000 and third place will get HK$50,000. The new scheme is aimed at encouraging trainers to spend more time and resources on improving their horses, so that they can have more chances of winning in future races.
Hundreds of students from across the city gathered on Saturday to attend this year’s Student of the Year awards ceremony, with Diocesan Girls School (DGS) pupil Gwyneth Ho winning the grand prize for her all-round achievements and contributions to society. She received a trophy, HK$10,000 and access to Hong Kong research facilities.
The BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize aims to inspire scientific researchers in Hong Kong to pursue innovative research ideas, establish their careers here, serve the nation and contribute globally. This year, a record number of applications were received, with all fields covered by the Prize – including artificial intelligence and robotics, life and health, new materials and energy, advanced manufacturing and FinTech – well represented.
The prize was established in 1996 by friends and students of the late Professor John D. Young, who had a passion for Hong Kong history and believed that every student should have a thorough understanding of the city’s unique development. The prize carries his name and is awarded to a third-year student taking at least 48 credits in History who achieves outstanding results.
At this year’s awards, more than 250 teams competed for the winner and 13 merit awards, with Hong Kong teams performing especially well in all categories. The Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, Tony Wong, congratulated all winners at the award presentation ceremony and said the government will continue to pursue its prevailing strategy in attracting global ICT talent and nurturing forward-looking scientists for building Hong Kong into an international research and technology hub.
A total of nine Hong Kong artists made the shortlist this year, making it the most-represented city in the Art Prize’s history. Two-thirds of the shortlistees are women, which is also a first for the prize’s history. The winners will each receive a cash prize of HK$50,000 to support their creative work, arts projects and further studies. The public can vote online until 16 September for their favourite art piece from the shortlist.