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The University of Hong Kong (HKU) announces the establishment of the new School of Computing and Data Science (CDS) to consolidate and advance education and research across the fields of computing and data science, artificial intelligence (AI), statistical decision sciences, fintech, and actuarial science.

The new School of CDS combines the Department of Computer Science from the Faculty of Engineering and Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science from the Faculty of Science. It aims to take a truly integrated approach to reform these related academic disciplines, as well as foster multidisciplinary research collaboration within the University and beyond.

Professor Richard WONG, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: "The rapid advancements in computing technology, data science, and artificial intelligence have the potential to offer groundbreaking solutions to numerous industrial, economic, and societal challenges. It is anticipated that the demand for new and top-tier talent in these fields will rise significantly in the future. Consequently, reforming education and fundamental research in computing and data science has become a priority and a trend among top universities worldwide. This initiative also aligns well with the strategic scientific and technological plans of Hong Kong and the nation. The University of Hong Kong is determined to seize this opportunity and tackle the associated challenges. By establishing the School of Computing and Data Science, HKU aims to create synergies that will position it as a leader in transforming Hong Kong into an international hub for education and research in computing and data science."

Professor Yi MA, Chair Professor of Artificial Intelligence, has been appointed the inaugural Director of the School of CDS. “By converging computing, data science, and statistics, the School of CDS aims to foster a vibrant academic community that drives innovative education, promotes multidisciplinary research, and facilitates technological innovation. It will transform education in computer science, data science, and artificial intelligence, incubating future leaders who are well-versed in these new knowledge and technology,” said Professor Ma.

Formally established on 1 July 2024, the School of CDS will admit students directly starting from the academic year 2025-26, offering eight undergraduate programmes in total. Besides revamping its flagship programme, the Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science, the School plans to introduce a new programme, the Bachelor of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, which is designed to be a standalone or AI+X double degree programme. Furthermore, the School of CDS will be the home department to offer AI literacy micro-credentials for all incoming HKU undergraduate students from 2025/26. The School will also offer three new professional degrees, namely the Bachelor of Science in Decision Analytics, Risk Management, and Statistics programmes respectively. Current undergraduate students reading the existing programmes will continue their studies without being affected by the transition.

For postgraduate education, new programmes will be designed in close collaboration with industry partners to cater to market needs.

To mark the establishment of the School of CDS, an opening ceremony will be held on October 24 (Thursday). The ceremony will be officiated by esteemed guests, followed by keynote lectures featuring distinguished speakers.

For media enquiries, please contact: 
PR and Communications team, School of Computing and Data Science, HKU
(Tel.: 3917 0434 / E-mail: cdsnews@hku.hk)