The HK Prize and BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize

HK prize is a prize that can be won by Hong Kong residents. It is awarded by the government to recognise the contributions of individuals and organizations to the community. The prize is a cash award that can be used to fund projects. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that will benefit society, as well as local communities and businesses. The project should have a positive impact on the environment, economy, culture, and education in the city of Hong Kong.

A total of HK$50 million has been allocated to this year’s prize. The money will be distributed to a total of 16 recipients. These people and organisations will be awarded for their efforts in promoting Hong Kong’s international development. The winners will be announced in March 2024.

BOCHK SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION PRIZE is a merit-based award that aims to reward outstanding scientists and research teams, who have completed their scientific and technological innovation or research work primarily in Hong Kong or universities, industry-education-research bases and institutes set up by Hong Kong higher education institutions and located in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, for their significant achievements. The operation of this prize is governed by a Charter, which ensures that the selection and evaluation of candidates are carried out in accordance with scientific and rigorous standards, and that no individual or organisation exerts undue influence on the review process.

The Hong Kong Award for Young People, known as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the United Kingdom, is an internationally recognised youth programme that cultivates perseverance and a spirit of challenge in youngsters aged 14 to 25. Participants must complete a series of sections, including services, skills, physical recreation and expedition, as well as a residential project.

Founded by a donation from Professor Wang Gungwu, this award provides financial support to undergraduate and postgraduate students in need of financial assistance. The winner will receive a cheque in the amount of HK$5,000.

During the awards ceremony, Chief Executive John Lee said that the laureates’ groundbreaking research and discoveries open up new doors of scientific possibility. He also thanked all those who have contributed to the success of this year’s prize, particularly the judging panel.

Michael Hui, top-grossing comedian of the 1970s and 1980s who shaped Hong Kong comedic cinema, received a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the film industry. Artist Noormah Jamal, whose acrylic-on-canvas painting Did the Seed Grow? is a study of empty spaces and vacant expressions, was also among the shortlisted nominees. The winnings will help bolster SAF’s Make It Better program, which has been offering expressive arts workshops for children from disadvantaged communities since 2013.