The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Jinchuan Group Co., Ltd (Jinchuan Group) have entered into a strategic cooperation framework agreement aimed at advancing high-quality development within the non-ferrous metals industry. This collaboration focuses on green and low-carbon development initiatives, specifically targeting key materials such as nickel, copper, cobalt, and rare precious metals.
The agreement was formalized on August 21, 2023, during a signing ceremony held on the PolyU campus. Notable attendees included Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, and Mr. Ying Ruan, Chairman of Jinchuan Group. The official signing was conducted by Prof. H. C. Man, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at PolyU, and Mr. Yonghong Cheng, International Business Director of Jinchuan Group.
Collaboration Goals and Vision
The partnership aims to harness the strengths of both institutions to drive innovation and foster deeper connections among industry, academia, and research sectors. Following the signing, Prof. Jianquo Lin, Chair Professor of Materials Technologies, provided insights into the intended collaboration.
Prof. Jin-Guang Teng emphasized the significance of this alliance, stating, “As an industry leader addressing major national strategic needs, Jinchuan Group has achieved remarkable accomplishments in research innovation. PolyU looks forward to leveraging this partnership to help fully utilize our strengths in research and talent cultivation, in conjunction with Jinchuan Group’s extensive industrial resources and sector expertise. Together, we aim to overcome key technological bottlenecks, promote efficient and green production within the industry, and inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology hub.”
In a similar vein, Mr. Ying Ruan highlighted PolyU’s standing as one of the world’s top 100 universities, known for its excellence in research and talent development. He noted, “Building on PolyU’s extensive experience in university-industry collaboration, combined with Jinchuan Group’s technological strengths and strategic positioning in non-ferrous metals smelting, new energy, and new materials, we will explore new models for deep integration among industry, academic, and research sectors.”
Future Directions and Areas of Focus
The two organizations will work under the principles of long-term vision, complementary strengths, resource sharing, and mutual benefits. Their collaborative efforts will encompass areas like platform development, technological innovation, research commercialization, and talent cultivation.
During the visit, the Jinchuan Group delegation engaged in detailed discussions with the Faculty of Engineering at PolyU. They also toured facilities such as the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, the University Research Facility in 3D Printing, and the Industrial Centre.
This strategic partnership is expected to significantly contribute to advancing the non-ferrous metals industry, enhancing technological capabilities, and strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a global innovation and technology center. The collaboration between PolyU and Jinchuan Group underscores the importance of synergy between educational institutions and industry leaders to drive sustainable development in critical sectors.
