Empowering the Next Generation of Creative Technologists at The University of Hong Kong (HKU)

Over the course of four enriching days, I had the privilege of leading a series of hands-on training sessions and delivering a keynote talk titled “Building the Metaverse: Real-Time Power and Procedural Magic.”

The energy throughout the event was electric, driven by the curiosity and creativity of HKU’s talented community of students and educators.

Immersive Learning Meets Real-Time Innovation

During the workshops, participants explored the latest real-time technologies through Unreal Engine and Houdini, learning how to craft dynamic, high-fidelity environments.

Some standout moments included:

- The spark of excitement as students lit up real-time cityscapes in Unreal Engine
-The pride in rendering iconic neon-lit Hong Kong street scenes—a visual tribute to their cultural roots
- The depth of engagement during extended Q&A sessions, where we explored how real-time and procedural technologies are shaping the future of virtual worlds

These sessions went beyond technical training—they became collaborative explorations of the Metaverse, creative pipelines, and the future of interactive media.

A Community of Excellence

HKU’s reputation speaks for itself—ranked #1 in Hong Kong and #17 globally in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. But it was the people—their passion, professionalism, and drive—that truly stood out. I was deeply impressed by how quickly participants embraced complex tools and concepts, applying them creatively and confidently in such a short time.

A heartfelt thank you to my training assistant, Cheerie Tan, for her outstanding onsite support. Her dedication was essential in making each session run smoothly and efficiently.

Looking Forward

As I look back on the highlights and video moments from this vibrant week, I’m reminded of just how powerful immersive learning experiences can be. The Arts Tech Lab’s commitment to merging technology and creativity sets an exciting precedent for the region.

It was an honor to contribute to this thriving academic and creative ecosystem. I look forward to future collaborations—and to witnessing how HKU’s next generation of creative technologists will shape the digital world ahead.