Distinguished Higher Education Leader Professor Dame Madeleine Atkins Inspires CityUHK and Hong Kong Scientific Community on Future Learning and Global Partnerships

Newswise — Professor Dame Madeleine Atkins, Senior Fellow of The Hong Kong Institute for Advanced Study (HKIAS) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and President Emeritus of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge, is a visionary leader whose influence continues to shape the global scientific and academic landscape. Her visit to CityUHK from 7 to 13 December 2025 stands as a testament to her enduring commitment to advancing higher education and research, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose and ambition across the university community.

The visit commenced on 8 December with a warm welcome by the Institute of Future Learning. Professor Atkins led a seminar titled “Future Learning and International Educational Partnerships: Issues and Emerging Practices” with members of the Institute of Future Learning, where she shared her extensive expertise on educational leadership, sparking productive discussions on the future of digital learning and cross-border academic collaboration. Professor Atkins also engaged in discussions with CityUHK scholars including Professor Ray Cheung, Associate Provost (Digital Learning) and Director of the Institute of Future Learning, Professor Jianping Wang, Dean of the College of Computing, Professor Feng Lin, Dean of the School of Law, Professor Gerhard Petrus Hancke, Director of the Talent and Education Development Office and Professor Lik Hang Tsui, Associate Director of the Talent and Education Development Office.

On 9 December, Professor Atkins visited the CityUHK (Dongguan), accompanied by Professor Shuk Han Cheng, Executive Director of HKIAS. They met with Professor Chun Lu, Executive President of CityUHK (Dongguan), Professor Juan Julie Li, Vice President (Academic) of CityUHK (Dongguan), and Professor Chi Yue Chiu, Vice President (Administration). During the visit, Professor Atkins delivered a seminar on “Additional Models of Research Grant Funding”, where her insights into innovative funding strategies provided young faculty and researchers with practical tools to seek resources and pursue ambitious research agendas. After her talk, Professor Atkins engaged in discussions with young faculty and students about career pathways and success in a dynamic global environment.  (For more details about her visit to CityUHK (Dongguan), please click here.)

Madeleine Atkins contributed as a keynote speaker at the RGC Research Summit 2025, co-hosted by the University Grants Committee and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. In the Plenary Session of “Research Future”, she shared insights on the future of research, highlighting global research trends and funding strategies. Her leadership continues to guide scientific inquiry and foster international cooperation, reinforcing the importance of strategic investment in science and technology.

As a strong advocate for student development, Professor Dame Madeleine Atkins dedicated substantial time to interacting with young scholars. On her visit, Professor Shirley Chong, Director of the Communications and Institutional Research Office (CIRO), welcomed her and attended the sharing session co-organised by the Office of the Provost and Deputy President and CIRO. This session focused on Master’s and Doctorate studies at Cambridge, where Professor Atkins offered invaluable guidance to potential applicants, helping them navigate opportunities and requirements for postgraduate study at this world-leading university. Additionally, Professor Atkins reconnected with CityUHK students who had previously gone to Lucy Cavendish College for the Future Global Leaders Programme for an afternoon tea gathering. Her outreach extended to the local community on 12 December, where she met with secondary school students from Kowloon True Light School, True Light Girls’ College, and Ying Wa College. Organized by the Office of the Vice-President (Community Engagement), this session allowed students to gain inspiration from a world-class academic leader, further amplifying Professor Atkins’ impact on future generations.

As a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, Professor Dame Madeleine Atkins served as the President of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge from 2018-2025. Her legacy extends far beyond her formal titles and accolades. Her contributions have been recognised at the highest levels. Yet, her enduring influence, her ability to inspire, connect, and empower truly sets her apart. The CityUHK community, and indeed the Hong Kong and global scientific community, will continue to benefit from the vision, wisdom, and passion she has so generously shared.