MIT Node had concluded the Urban Tech week 2024 on June 15, 2024 successfully. Students from MIT, HKU, City U, CUHK , Poly U and HKU Space spent the two weeks delving into three problem statements stipulated by the three companies, Chinachem, MTR and Unifi3D. The challenges called for students to apply interdisciplinary knowledge, design thinking methodology to develop innovative solutions.
GIS workshop
Joined by GIS workshop leaders from Geospatial lab, students were equipped with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) skills that allowed them to capture and present holistic analysis of market demand. The 2-day GIS workshops introduced a general process to obtain data via data collection, developing analysis rubrics, data visualization and application. The hands- on exercises, themed data analysis and clinic hours guided students with a diligent learning process that inspired students to critically analyze data with publicly available resources.
Site visit – HKSTP
During the site visit, students were warmly greeted by HKSTP representatives, and learned from the start-up companies Blue Pin(HK) Limited, Medmind Technology and Sensestek Solution Limited for their start up experience and adoption of technologies. Blue Pin (HK) Limited developed people recognition and service robots with indoor positioning system to provide seamless check in experience for hotel guests, while Medmind Technology shared their extensive research on Gerontechnology and lastly, Sensestek Solutions Limited on Cognitive Training and Performance Tracking solution. The fruitful sharing by industrial representatives and tour at Science and Technology Park reminded of the importance and advancement of technology that further enhance the quality of living of human species without endowment of sustainability. Through implementation of innovative ideas and extensive practices, we can address real-world urban issues through technology-driven innovations.
Site visit – Chinachem Group
The site-visit at two elderly centres Pine Care Group was joined by 13 students, led by Ms. Yan Liao, Head of RCHE of New Pine Care Centre, and Mr. Dante Feng, Head of RCHE/ Home Manager of Pine Care Group. Students had the opportunity to learn about the care routines, variety of assets and facilities offered at the elderly centres and interact with residents at the premises for better understanding of their living experience. Throughout the visit, students were able to expand their knowledge base for adoption of technology to assist healthcare services for elderly. The visit provoked thoughtful discussions on the current adoption of Gerontechnology and pain points addressed by the RCHE groups staff in daily operation at elderly Centre.
Site visit – Unifi3D
The site visit was joined by team 8 to team 10 students, Ms. Viviene Ma, from LFX’s People and Organization, delivered a presentation on “Transforming the Retail Industry and Empowering Sustainable Supply Chain,” emphasizing LFX’s initiatives in driving positive changes within the retail sector. Subsequently, Ms. Jessica Lee, the Head of Commercial and Strategic Partnership at UNIFi3D, shared their company’s approach to the “Digital Transformation Journey for Fashion Retailers,” providing valuable insights into leveraging technology for enhancing operations and customer experiences. After their presentations, the students were divided into different groups and assigned mentors for a guided visit to the office of UNIFi3D and mentoring session. This visit provided an invaluable opportunity for students to gain a firsthand experience of the company’s workspace, culture, and operations.
Site visit – MTR
The site visit was joined by all cohort students on June 4, 2024. During the workshop, students had the opportunity to engage with Mr. Gene Soo, Head of Ecosystem, MTR. Mr. So’s valuable insights into current development in Hong Kong public transportation and industrial development at MIT Node, followed by a site visit at Quarry Bay to experience newly developed AI chatbot services and digital signage boards at Admiralty, one of the busiest interchange stations in Hong Kong. Students were able to appreciate and experience the latest AI technology implemented in local transportation services that strive to uphold an efficient and environmentally sustainable railway system.