EY renews MoU with PolyU, forging ahead in the endeavor of ESG development in Hong Kong

Ernst & Young Advisory Services Limited (EY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), represented by the Center for Economic Sustainability and Entrepreneurial Finance (CESEF) of the School of Accounting and Finance (AF) on 25 March to strengthen the existing collaboration toward the shared goal of making headway for developments in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and beyond.

With the leading advantages of strategic initiatives and robust regulatory frameworks, Hong Kong is a key player in both the regional and global ESG landscape. Following the conducive collaboration since 2021, the joint efforts between EY and PolyU have realized tremendous collaborative benefits of supporting the development of high-quality economic and ESG developments, enriching not just the two organizations but also bringing about the associated benefits to Hong Kong collectively. With the renewal of the MoU, EY and PolyU aim to further explore opportunities between industry and academia, creating greater synergy and prospects in the ESG landscape.

According to this MoU, EY will continue to provide support and guidance to eligible PolyU students. ESG leadership talks and other training opportunities will be organized to facilitate knowledge sharing. EY and PolyU will also endeavor to promote ESG development in Hong Kong and foster academia-industry collaboration to advocate ESG and sustainability best practices. This MoU acts as a catalyst for change and empowerment, thus bringing about positive impact in the world and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Jasmine Lee, EY Hong Kong and Macau Managing Partner, says: “The renewal marks a milestone on our journey towards sustainability, propelling us towards greater success and emphasizing our unwavering dedication to a sustainable future. Through our collaboration with PolyU, we have contributed substantially to the development of ESG through student mentorship and hosting numerous knowledge-sharing events, driving progression in the ESG field in Hong Kong. We are excited for the renewed cooperation, through which we continue to empower the next generation and lay the foundation for a sustainable future. By joining forces once again, the MoU will reinforce our mutual commitment to stay in the vanguard of advancing the city’s leading position in the ESG landscape.”

Nancy Su, Professor and Head of the School of Accounting and Finance of PolyU, says: “We are glad to work with EY again in driving sustainable development in Hong Kong. Through knowledge transfer, CESEF endeavors to collaborate with different industries in practicing ESG and green finance. By organizing ESG-related conferences and seminars, we will continue to communicate with industry professionals closely and address the needs of our society. This MoU will further integrate our experiences in promoting green and sustainable finance and nurture innovative talents, thus contributing to the sustainable development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area and creating better opportunities for the younger generation.”

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The Center for Economic Sustainability and Entrepreneurial Finance of the School of Accounting and Finance

The School of Accounting and Finance (AF) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is the first local tertiary education institution that offers honours degree programme in accountancy. It has nurtured scores of professionals in Hong Kong since the 1960s. Faculty members bring a great wealth of teaching and research experience to AF and have transferred interdisciplinary knowledge across areas such as accounting, finance, economics and law for decades. AF endeavours to fulfil PolyU’s "Opening Minds • Shaping the Future" pledge. Placing equal emphases on research and practice, AF provides students with both professional knowledge and internship opportunities.

Established in 2015, the Center for Economic Sustainability and Entrepreneurial Finance (CESEF) endeavours to encourage economic growth by promoting sustainability among local enterprises. CESEF develops partnerships with various industries through knowledge transfer and put ESG and green finance into practice. For more information about CESEF, please visit https://www.polyu.edu.hk/af/cesef/.