The Hongkong Prize encourages students to pursue their passion, expand their global perspectives and make a real difference to society. It is one of Asia’s most competitive scholarship contests with thousands applying yearly. Winners receive cash awards and other prizes, including shopping vouchers and F&B benefits. The logo of the prize, which is also reflected in the trophy conferred to winners, juxtaposes two precious elements – a pearl and a pierced jade amulet. The symbolism of the prize reflects the prize’s aim to honour outstanding students for their pursuit of excellence and to celebrate the diversity of the Hong Kong community.
The HK Prize rewards excellent research articles published by young Fellows of the Academy in clinical studies, observational/epidemiological/basic science investigations or focussing on Hong Kong/Asia, and is open to all disciplines of medicine. Candidates must be the principal authors of their submissions. Submissions will be subjected to rigorous peer review. Those selected for the Prize will benefit from recognition, support and encouragement in their creative work or arts projects, as well as increased international visibility via top-tier media coverage.
This year’s prize was awarded to a postgraduate student for their project examining the historical development of China and Hong Kong, exploring the unique status that Hong Kong enjoys in China and the world. The Prize was established in 1996 by friends and students of the late Professor John D. Young who had a deep love for local history and believed that a comprehensive knowledge of the past is crucial to our understanding of contemporary life in Hong Kong.
Another prize was awarded to a Hong Kong art practitioner, who received a grant to support her artistic work or projects. Sameen Agha, who hails from Pakistan, made the shortlist for her sculpture A Home is a Terrible Place to Love. Her piece depicts a house in the process of dismantling, and is an allusion to the difficulties many face when trying to keep their homes intact.
The HK Prize for Chinese Literature is a biennial literary award to commend and support local writers for their achievements in writing quality Chinese literary works, and promote the publication of these quality literary works by local publishers. The Prize is a flagship programme of the Hong Kong Public Libraries and is supported by various sponsors. The Hong Kong Chinese Literary Award is one of the best known prizes in the country, and has become a benchmark for excellence in Chinese literature.