French Academic Leader Addresses University Forum
On April 14, Professor Jacques Biot, the former president of école Polytechnique in France, addressed the University Forum at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) (HKUST(GZ)) with a keynote speech titled “AI and Higher Education.”
Professor Lionel M. Ni, the president of HKUST(GZ), delivered opening remarks.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. In recognition of this milestone, President Ni announced a series of commemorative events planned for 2025, including the forum held today. These events aim not only to celebrate this significant anniversary but also to enhance the university’s internationalization efforts and foster collaboration with European educational institutions.
The forum also welcomed Mr. Xiaobing Hong, Director of the Department of European Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mr. Olivier Ngo, Science and Higher Education Attaché at the Consulate General of France in Guangzhou. Professor Wei Shyy, Chair Professor at HKUST (GZ) and the fourth President of HKUST, led the Q&A session.
President Ni warmly welcomed Biot and other guests from Europe and China in his opening address. He emphasized that strengthening collaboration with Europe is a key aspect of HKUST(GZ)’s international strategy. He expressed gratitude to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for authorizing HKUST(GZ) as one of the first universities to use the Chinese emblem for the 50th anniversary of China-Europe relations. Under this framework, HKUST(GZ) plans to enhance its ties with Europe through delegation visits, attracting European youth to the PLACE summer camp, and hosting the Sino-German 5+5 Climate Change Dialogue, among other significant events.
Mr. Xiaobing Hong congratulated the university on initiating the anniversary activities and highlighted the importance of cultural and educational exchanges between China and Europe in the context of international dynamics.
In his keynote speech, Professor Biot praised HKUST(GZ) for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research, noting its sophisticated vision and pathway in the field of AI. He discussed the importance of universities teaching AI and integrating it into curricula. While AI is grounded in mathematics, computer science, and physics, disciplines such as clean energy, law, and social sciences are essential for its healthy development.
Professor Biot emphasized the reciprocal relationship between AI and various academic fields. He suggested educators incorporate AI tools into teaching processes like lesson preparation and data analysis. He advised students to use AI responsibly to enhance learning efficiency and optimize their educational experiences. However, he cautioned that AI as a teaching tool might reduce empathy between teachers and students and affect the fairness of evaluations and the reliability of data analysis.
Using France as a case study, Professor Biot examined the digital transformation in European higher education, arguing that closing innovation gaps, reducing reliance on imported digital technologies, and investing in AI competitions are crucial for Europe's strategic independence. He referenced the EU’s “AI Continent Action Plan,” launched on April 9, which aims to strengthen the bloc's competitiveness in AI and underscores the importance of cultivating high-level AI talent.
Drawing from his experiences as the former president of école Polytechnique, Professor Biot delved into the achievements and challenges faced by French public universities and Grandes écoles. He noted France’s competitive edge in AI research and its successful startup ecosystem. However, the widespread adoption of AI is often limited by users’ digital literacy.
The forum continued with a dialogue and Q&A session led by Professor Wei Shyy, who expressed gratitude for Professor Biot’s visit. Professor Biot reiterated the need for reflection on AI amid its popularity, urging focus on other fields like energy, agriculture, and biology.
