University of Hong Kong opens second phase of Shanghai Zhang Jiang campus

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has officially inaugurated the second phase of its Zhang Jiang campus in Shanghai. The expansion includes new facilities for laboratories and a student activity center, with a third phase expected to launch next year to further support artificial intelligence (AI) education.

During the opening ceremony, HKU President Zhang Xiang emphasized the necessity of cross-disciplinary training to prepare students for the AI era. He noted that talent in this field cannot be treated as a commodity that is ready for immediate use; instead, universities must collaborate closely with enterprises to cultivate “composite talents” who possess critical thinking, creativity, and the ability to work alongside robotics.

To foster innovation, HKU signed cooperation agreements with 17 companies to establish various AI labs, including joint laboratories for embodied intelligence, fintech, and AI infrastructure. Partner companies include Unitree Robotics, BrainCo, and others. The campus is strategically located near over 3,000 technology enterprises in Zhang Jiang, providing students with significant opportunities for internships and industry-integrated research.