The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has received a generous donation from the GS Charity Foundation to support a new research project aimed at driving sustainable fashion design and brand ecosystem management. The project, titled “From Tradition to Tech: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Fashion Design and Brand Ecosystem Management in the Age of AI and Digital Platforms,” is being conducted by the university’s School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT).
A kick-off ceremony was held on the PolyU campus, officiated by PolyU President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng and Mr. Yeung Fan, Vice-chairman and General Manager of Glorious Sun Group. The two parties exchanged souvenirs, including a unique piece co-created by the SFT and the Industrial Centre that features PolyU’s iconic architecture. The souvenir was engraved with a message conveying the university’s appreciation for the Foundation’s support.
A “Deep Partnership”
In his remarks, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng expressed gratitude for the long-standing support from Glorious Sun Group and the GS Charity Foundation. He highlighted the importance of AI in Hong Kong’s reindustrialisation and smart city development.
Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said: “AI is a core technology driving Hong Kong’s reindustrialisation and smart city development. With PolyU’s robust research capabilities, this collaboration will enable the continuous supply of talent for the textile sector, equipped with cutting-edge industry knowledge and AI expertise. This will help Hong Kong leverage its regional advantages and further consolidate the Greater Bay Area’s position as a hub for fashion innovation.”
Mr. Yeung Fan said: “Since the 1980s, Glorious Sun Group has developed a deep partnership with PolyU—one that has remained strong for four decades. Our support for PolyU research into co-developing a brand ecosystem reflects our confidence in PolyU research excellence, testifies to our enduring collaboration, and affirms our shared commitment to nurturing outstanding talent and driving innovation and sustainability in the apparel industry.”
The ceremony was attended by other key figures from both organisations, including Ms. Cheung Wai Yee, Professor the Honourable Poon Chung-kwong, The Hon Jimmy Ng Wing-ka, and Dr. Katherine Ngan.
Following the ceremony, Prof. Joanne Yip, Associate Dean and Professor of the SFT, introduced the research project. She noted that the fashion industry is undergoing a transformational shift, integrating cutting-edge technologies like AI, blockchain, and big data with sustainable practices.
The research will focus on seven key areas to develop innovative solutions that integrate traditional fashion design with advanced technologies. This includes projects on intelligent data-driven design, AI applications in apparel review, material simulation, and supply chain management. The goal is to accelerate design and manufacturing processes and enhance the overall competitiveness of the fashion industry.
