HKUST Co-hosts My Toy Design Competition 2014-15 with Toy Industry Leaders
The Department of Industrial Engineering and Logistics Management (IELM) at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) co-hosts My Toy Design Competition 2014-15 with the Hong Kong Toys Council (HKTC) and the Toys Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong Limited (TMHK), aiming to nurture creativity of students, recruit exceptional design talents and maintain the sustainable development of the toy industry in Hong Kong.
HKUST has many educational initiatives in place to promote the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation. Hosting the first My Toy Design Competition in 2012 is one of HKUST’s moves to promote the idea of combining engineering with innovative design. In view of the success of the last competition, HKUST co-hosts with the industry leaders this year with an additional category of toys with smart device applications, encouraging the participants to be creative in toy design by blending the traditional elements and innovative ideas. The competition this year also debuts the “Designer Group” for local industry professionals and designers to learn more about the industry, to foster innovation culture and to nurture the creativity of the new generation.
The launch ceremony of My Toy Design Competition took place today with the presence of Mr Gregory So, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Eden Woon, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement of HKUST, Prof Fugee Tsung, Head of IELM of HKUST, Prof Ravindra Goonetilleke, Associate Head of IELM of HKUST, Mr Jimmy Kwok, Deputy Chairman of Federation of Hong Kong Industries, Mr Eric Yim, Deputy Chairman of Federation of Hong Kong Industries and Chairman of Design Council of Hong Kong, Mr John Tong, Chairman of HKTC, Dr K M Cheung, President of TMHK, Mr Y M Tam, Past President of TMHK. Apart from showcasing the past winning products at the ceremony, the past winners also shared their experiences with the audience.
My Toy Design Competition welcomes entries from full-time students aged 12 or above (either in group or on individual basis) and designers in Hong Kong (on individual basis). Registration is now open until 31 October. The Competition which emphasizes originality has the support of various toy companies, professional bodies and youth organizations. While entrants can showcase their creativity and innovation, they will also receive training at HKUST to acquire specialized knowledge and experience from toy design, manufacturing to sales. Besides, mentorship programs will be offered to the finalists. Details of the Competition can be found at the website.
IELM Department offers a number of professional courses as well as ground-breaking, innovative research. With advanced laboratory facilities, specialized equipment and interactive teaching methods, students gain a thorough understanding of professional knowledge, technical skills and an appreciation of the latest trends of global industries. The Competition provides an ideal platform for talented students to practice their technical and creative skills.