TLDR: City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and Alibaba Cloud have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote artificial intelligence (AI), cloud technologies, and innovative education. This partnership aims to cultivate global digital talent, establish an ‘AI Digital Learning Lab’ focused on generative AI, and integrate industry-aligned curricula and internship opportunities for students.
City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, officially formalized a strategic partnership on October 8, 2025, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration is designed to significantly advance the development of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud technologies, and innovative education.
The core objective of this alliance is to cultivate digital talent with a global perspective and to foster a deeper integration between academic research and industry practices. The MoU was signed by Professor Freddy Boey, CityUHK President and University Distinguished Professor, and Mr. Thomas Ho, Vice President of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence Hong Kong & Macau region.
Key initiatives under this partnership include the establishment of the ‘CityUHK x Alibaba Cloud AI Digital Learning Lab.’ This state-of-the-art laboratory will be dedicated to cutting-edge generative AI technologies, aiming to seamlessly integrate technology into educational frameworks. Furthermore, Alibaba Cloud will leverage its extensive educational platform, Alibaba Cloud Academy, to support CityUHK in developing curricula that are closely aligned with current industry demands and the latest technological advancements in AI and innovation.
In a move to provide practical experience, Alibaba Cloud also plans to offer valuable internship opportunities to CityUHK students. These opportunities will include hands-on experience through cross-regional visits and participation in competitions within top-tier technology environments.
During the signing ceremony, President Boey expressed CityUHK’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that it ‘would enrich students’ learning resources and provide practical experience in international tech enterprises and environments.’ He further highlighted CityUHK’s commitment to innovation in the rapidly evolving AI era, emphasizing the importance of equipping students to meet future challenges through strategic partnerships. Professor Boey also mentioned the recent appointment of Professor Ma Wei-ying, Director of the Hong Kong Institute of AI for Science, as the Chief of AI at CityUHK, tasked with leading the strategic development of AI. Additionally, a newly established committee, chaired by Professor Lee Chun-sing, Provost and Deputy President, is dedicated to attracting top AI talent.
Mr. Ho, representing Alibaba Cloud, commended CityUHK for its excellence in innovative research and talent cultivation. He conveyed Alibaba Cloud’s delight in partnering with CityUHK to ‘promote the accessibility and advancement of AI education through the technologies and resources of Alibaba Cloud Academy.’
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CityUHK’s dedication to advancing digital learning and leveraging AI’s societal benefits is further underscored by its recently established Institute for Future Learning. This institute is focused on curriculum innovation, enhancing student capabilities, professional development for educators, and policy impact, aiming to transform educational models and serve as a vital platform for exchange between academia and industry.
