GTE Students' AI Project Wins Outstanding Award at HKBU "Sustainable Futures: Green x Silver" Innovation Challenges

GTE Students' AI Project Wins Outstanding Award at HKBU "Sustainable Futures: Green x Silver" Innovation Challenges

In May 2026, four students from the MSc in Green Technology (Energy) (GTE) programme in the Department of Physics, Zeng Ziye, Xie Junxi, Du Junfeng, and Xing Jinming, participated in the HKBU Student-led Competition “Sustainable Futures: Green x Silver” Student Innovation Challenges 2026. Their AI project, “Luma Agent,” was awarded the Outstanding Award in the Smart Green x Silver Co-creation category.

“Luma Agent” aims to develop an AI tool capable of executing daily tasks for users, primarily as a life and safety assistant for the elderly. Unlike conventional AI systems that provide instructions, it emphasizes “direct execution,” helping users complete tasks efficiently. Project leader Zeng Ziye stated, “We hope to transform AI into a ‘life agent’ that the elderly can truly use and trust.”

The team highlighted that many elderly individuals are currently excluded from the benefits of digital technology due to issues such as small text, complex interfaces, typing difficulties, inaccurate voice recognition and concerns over online security and privacy. They believe that “Luma Agent” has the potential to help overcome these barriers and promote greater digital inclusion.

During the preparation process, Dr. Hu, the Programme Director of the GTE programme, provided important guidance and support to the team. They recalled, “Dr. Hu recognized our innovative capabilities and encouraged us to actively participate in various innovation competitions in Hong Kong, making full use of resources through the department and the university to turn our ideas into reality.”

Through their studies in the GTE programme, they developed skills in AI-based model construction for green technology. This competition enabled them to apply these skills to real-world challenges and address practical societal needs. Preparing to enter the workforce, they plan to focus on emerging new energy storage technologies, aiming to contribute innovative green solutions and promote sustainable development.