Qian Weichang International Summit, hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) Graduate School and sponsored by the K. C. Wong Education Foundation, is a premier academic event honouring the enduring legacy of Professor Qian Weichang, also known as Chien Wei-zang (1912–2010). A towering figure in science and education, Professor Qian served as the former President of Shanghai University and former Vice Director of the Institute of Mechanics of Chinese Academy of Sciences, and is widely revered as the “Father of Mechanics” in China.
Despite the hardships of his early life, Professor Qian remained remarkably optimistic and driven, pursuing interdisciplinary academic fields with unwavering dedication. He carried a profound sense of duty to his country, and his pioneering contributions to mechanics and applied mathematics not only transformed scientific progress across Asia and beyond, but also laid the foundational groundwork for modern interdisciplinary innovation. As a legendary educator and scientist, his vision of breaking interdisciplinary boundaries continues to inspire global innovation worldwide. Professor Qian believed education should serve society and the greater good. This philosophy closely echoes PolyU's motto, - “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind” - a shared value that makes us proud to host this summit in his name.
Building on the remarkable success of the inaugural edition held in March 2026, the Qian Weichang International Summit has quickly established itself as a dynamic platform for global academic dialogue and interdisciplinary exchange. Under the theme of Interdisciplinary Advances in Science and Engineering, the Summit will return on 17-19 March 2027, at Hotel ICON in Hong Kong. It will once again bring together distinguished scholars, researchers, and emerging academic stars from Asia, the United States and Europe. By fostering cross-regional dialogue and weaving bridges across disciplines, the Summit empowers the next generation of talent in science and engineering to tackle global challenges.
Our Mission
- Ignite global academic collaboration by uniting world-class scholars for transformative exchange
- Spark high-level discussions across diverse science and engineering disciplines
- Inspire and empower young scholars to carry forward a legacy of scholarly excellence
- Elevate Hong Kong’s role as a dynamic global hub for academic innovation
About The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Approaching its 90th anniversary in 2027, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has long evolved alongside Hong Kong, making pivotal contributions to the social and economic advancement of the city, as well as to the Nation and the wider world. PolyU aspires to be an innovative world-class university that pursues excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer. Guided by its motto, “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”, the University nurtures socially responsible professionals and leaders with a strong sense of national pride and a global perspective, while driving world-leading research and innovation for societal benefits. PolyU’s unwavering commitment to excellence, impact, and innovation has earned it widespread international recognition. The University consistently ranks among the world’s top 100 universities, a testament to its status as a global leader in higher education and cutting-edge research.