The University of Macau (UM) today (13 December) held a Doctor honoris causa Lecture in celebration of its 40th anniversary. Chio Fai Aglaia Kong, recipient of an honorary doctorate from UM, gave a talk titled ‘Innovations for Billions’ to analyse innovation opportunities in today’s world under various global factors. The event attracted UM faculty members and students, teachers and students from local secondary schools, industry practitioners, and prominent members of the community.

According to Prof Yonghua Song, rector of UM, Dr Kong spares no effort in promoting the development of science and technology across the globe. She is innovative and forward-thinking, often translating anticipated needs into applications. Her work and achievements in scientific research are of leading international standard and her contributions have been affirmed and appreciated by all sectors of the society.

During the talk, Dr Kong shared her personal entrepreneurial philosophy, explaining how she identified opportunities for innovation to create products that are now used by a billion people and how to remain at the forefront of technology in an ever-changing era. She also discussed her key to success from her experiences as an executive of companies ranked among the top ten in the world, a founder of more than a dozen companies, and a developer of more than 20 products working with the world’s best technical experts. She also encouraged aspiring young people to seize the opportunity and dare to try.

In addition, Dr Kong analysed how entrepreneurs in Macao can ride the new wave and explore innovation opportunities under various global factors, including global warming, COVID-19, anti-globalisation, and artificial intelligence, in order to create favourable conditions for industrial diversification of Macao. She also put forward suggestions on the talent development policies of Macao, including how to simultaneously attract top talent and provide training for local professionals.

The Q&A and exchange session was chaired by Prof Jerome Yen, Distinguished Professor of the FST and the Institute of Collaborative Innovation.