The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi) launched its Centre for Music Therapy Research (CMTR) on September 16 at the Sky Concert Hall in Shenzhen. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for innovative healthcare talent while supporting the health development goals outlined in China's 15th Five-Year Plan and the Healthy China Initiative.
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The ceremonial launch attracted prominent figures from government, business, education, and technology sectors. Notable attendees included Mr. Paul CHONG Kin-lit, Vice Chairman of THEi's Board of Governors; Professor Alan LAU Kin-tak, President of THEi; Ms. LIU Ying, Director of CMTR; Mr. YANG Pengda, Deputy Director of CMTR; and officials from the Shenzhen Municipality and various academic institutions.
During the event, strategic partnerships were established and a live concert titled "Emotional Healing Show" was performed by celebrated musicians, highlighting the Centre's commitment to non-clinical wellness. A standout moment was a performance of the iconic song "Beneath the Lion Rock," aligning with THEi's objective of enhancing Hong Kong's international connectivity.
Mr. Paul CHONG emphasized the role of music therapy in addressing mental health and wellness, stating that THEi aims to integrate music therapy with technology to establish a hub for research and community service. Professor Alan LAU highlighted the importance of adapting higher education to contemporary trends, focusing on the intersection of music, emotion, and AI.
The CMTR, directed by Ms. LIU Ying, aims to leverage both Hong Kong's global insights and Shenzhen's rapid development to create a cross-disciplinary hub. It will utilize music therapy, grounded in Five-Tone theory and AI technologies, to provide innovative wellness solutions. The Centre is also focused on addressing significant societal issues such as sleep disorders and elder care, using a blend of technology and musical arts.
Furthermore, the CMTR signed memorandums of understanding with the Key Laboratory of AI-Enabled Music Therapy and the Tchaikovsky Conservatory (China) International Exchange Centre, creating opportunities for collaborative research and talent training.
Future initiatives of the Centre will center on advancements in AI music therapy, the emotional benefits of traditional Chinese music, arts-based healing programs for seniors, and the integration of digital music technologies.
Through this launch, THEi aims to solidify its position as a leader in applied science education in the Greater Bay Area, driving innovation to support high-quality development regionally and nationwide.