Laboratory Unveiling Ceremony
On December 1, the unveiling ceremony and keynote address for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Transportation Infrastructure Innovation Joint Laboratory took place at the Wushan Campus of South China University of Technology. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished figures, including Zhang Liqun, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and President of South China University of Technology; Fwa Tien Fang, Academician of the Singapore Academy of Engineering; and Zhou Wei, former Chief Engineer of the Ministry of Transport. Notable attendees also included Wu Bo, Vice President of South China University of Technology, Academician Zheng Jianlong of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and Zeng Zhaogeng, former Director of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Transportation.
President Zhang Liqun's Video Address
President Zhang Liqun, in a video message, congratulated the establishment of the laboratory, expressing gratitude for the continuous support from leaders and experts. He highlighted the laboratory's significance as a crucial step in the university's commitment to technological innovation in the field of transportation. President Zhang emphasized that the joint laboratory is not only a concrete action in response to national strategies but also a vital initiative to contribute to the development of the Greater Bay Area of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. The platform aims to gather outstanding researchers from diverse disciplines to collaboratively address significant technical and engineering challenges in transportation infrastructure, fostering excellence and innovation in scientific and technological realms.
Video Address by Zhou Wei, Former Chief Engineer of the Ministry of Transport
Former Chief Engineer Zhou Wei emphasized the importance of integrating scientific research and engineering practice for the innovative development of transportation infrastructure. He expressed anticipation for the laboratory to evolve into a hub that combines academic research, engineering practice, and industrial applications. The goal is to facilitate collaboration among experts and talents in the transportation technology field, ultimately contributing to the innovative development of transportation infrastructure in the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
Address by Academician Fwa Tien Fang
Academician Fwa Tien Fang acknowledged the laboratory's establishment as a positive response to national policies, foreseeing its role in propelling innovation in transportation infrastructure within the Greater Bay Area and globally. He emphasized the laboratory's potential as a vital platform for international scientific cooperation, fostering valuable academic and cultural exchanges among researchers and students. The collaboration is expected to cultivate future talents in the field of transportation with a global perspective, enhancing collaboration and communication skills across different cultures and economic backgrounds.
Issuance of Appointment Letters
During the ceremony, Vice President Wu Bo presented appointment letters to Academician Zheng Jianlong and Academician Fwa Tien Fang as the Director and Deputy Director of the Laboratory Academic Committee, respectively. Professor Hu Chichun was appointed as the Laboratory Director, with Professors Leng Zhen and Zhou Wanhuan serving as Deputy Directors. Engaging presentations were delivered by Academician Fwa Tien Fang and Professor Leng Zhen. The event witnessed the participation of over 200 attendees, including government officials, university representatives, and industry leaders.
The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Transportation Infrastructure Innovation Joint Laboratory, jointly applied for by South China University of Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and the University of Macau, was approved by the Guangdong Provincial Department of Education. The laboratory focuses on research in multiple areas, including green technology in transportation infrastructure, intelligent traffic management, efficient and resilient infrastructure, future transportation technology, and the integration of transportation with smart cities. Its establishment aims to drive innovation, development, and application of transportation infrastructure technology in the Greater Bay Area, ultimately raising the technological standards in transportation infrastructure nationwide and maximizing the economic and social benefits of transportation infrastructure investments. The laboratory's inauguration has garnered attention and coverage from various media outlets, including China Science Daily, Science and Technology Daily, Guangdong Science and Technology News, Guangzhou Daily, Yangcheng Evening News, Information Times, China News Network, and China Education Online.