EY and PolyU renew MoU to advance ESG and sustainability talent development

Ernst & Young Advisory Services Limited (EY) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have today renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further deepen their collaboration in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability. By strengthening talent development, knowledge exchange and research collaboration, both parties will continue to jointly promote best practices in ESG and sustainability, fostering closer integration between academic research and industry application.

The signing ceremony was held on the PolyU campus. Witnessed by Dr Laura Lo, PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement) and Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and EY Greater China Regional Managing Partner, the MoU was signed by Prof. Nancy Su, Head of PolyU School of Accounting and Finance and Benny Cheung, EY Hong Kong and Macau Managing Partner.

Since establishing their collaboration in 2021, EY and PolyU have built a solid foundation in advancing ESG initiatives, knowledge transfer and talent development. Under the renewed MoU, PolyU will promote the exchange of forward-looking academic insights and industry practices through thematic research exchanges and the sharing of research findings. Meanwhile, EY will provide professional guidance and regular engagement opportunities for PolyU School of Accounting and Finance students, helping them apply their academic knowledge in real-world business environments.

Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and EY Greater China Regional Managing Partner, says: “ESG is no longer a specialist topic sitting on the sidelines of business. It is increasingly connected with how companies set strategy, manage risk, allocate capital, strengthen governance and create long-term value. This makes collaboration between academia and industry more important than ever. Through this renewed MoU, EY and PolyU will continue to combine academic excellence with practical industry experience to help develop the next generation of multidisciplinary talent and support Hong Kong’s sustainable development.”

Dr Laura Lo, PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement), says: “PolyU remains steadfast in its mission to advance knowledge, foster innovation and serve the community. We are confident that, by implementing this renewed MoU, engaging EY as an industry knowledge partner and providing practical project support to students on our Master of Science in ESG and Sustainability program, PolyU and EY will continue to lead ESG innovation, nurture the next generation of leaders and jointly contribute to a sustainable future for Hong Kong and the broader global community.”

Looking ahead, both parties will actively engage in industry forums, professional training programs and academic seminars to examine key issues including ESG governance, sustainable finance and green technology, thereby advancing ESG development in Hong Kong. They will also explore broader range of opportunities to nurture high caliber ESG professionals for the industry, including student internships, talent recruitment and professional development initiatives.

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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) aspires to be an innovative world-class university that pursues excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer for the benefit of Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. Driven by its motto, “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”, the University nurtures socially responsible professionals and leaders with a strong sense of national pride and a global perspective and pursues world-leading research and innovation for societal benefits. The University’s unwavering commitment to excellence has garnered international acclaim, with PolyU ranking 50th in the QS World University Rankings 2027. Five subjects were placed within the top 30 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Furthermore, Hospitality & Leisure Management, Civil & Structural Engineering, Art & Design and Environmental Sciences were ranked first in Hong Kong. PolyU also strives to foster a University community in which all members are united with a strong sense of belonging and pride, empowering the University to scale new heights.