Happenings

The Network for the Study of Social Ecological Systems Transformation was initiated in May 2026 and is coordinated by the Centre for Civil Society and Governance to consolidate our partnerships with SES researchers across a number of institutions. We work together to collaborate in conducting interdisciplinary research and knowledge dissemination, pursue funding opportunities and co-authored publications. Together with Society for Social-Ecological Systems (SocSES) and the International Association for the Study of the Commons (IASC), we are co-organising a joint network webinar series. The launch session is titled “The Evolution of SES Research and Practice in Asia”, featuring Professor Yahua Wang (representing this SES Transformation Network and IASC) and Mofizur Rahman (representing SocSES). “The SES Framework as a Common Language: Reflections Two Decades Later” – Prof. Yahua Wang (Tsinghua University) “A Traveling Idea, A Traveling Self: An Autoethnography of Social-Ecological Systems Thinking” – Mofizur Rahman (Humboldt University of Berlin) Discussant: Dr Mansee Bal Bhargava (Senior Researcher, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg; Director, Wednesdays.for.Water) Moderator: Dr Vivian Ho Yee Chu (Centre for Civil Society and Governance, The University of Hong Kong; Network for the Study of Social Ecological System (SES) Transformation) 🗓️ Date: 23 October (Friday) 🕑 Time: 11:30 AM Bangladesh Time, 12:30 PM ICT, 1:30 PM HKT / Beijing Time, 2:30 PM JST / KST 🔗 Register to attend here 🌐 Webinar info on SocSES website

Career Talk cum Admission Briefing for Master of Social Sciences in Sustainability Leadership and Governance Join us for an engaging discussion with our alumni, who will share their experiences of integrating the values of sustainability into their professional lives and how they see themselves contributing to societal well-being and making a positive impact through their work. Webinar Details: Date: 27 Oct, 2026 (Tuesday) Time: 6:30 – 7:00 pm Language: English Alumni Sharing: Ms. Cindy Au, Assistant General Manager - Sustainability and Shared Value, Nam Fung Group Mr. Evan Wong, Senior Ethical & Sustainability Specialist, John Lewis Partnership Moderator: Dr. Vivian Chu, Co-Director, MSocSc Sustainability Leadership and Governance Programme, The University of Hong Kong Registration link: https://hku.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d1lGj4F67C8uWOi?hkufoss=xT7k2P

This project, centred on the 300-year-old Hakka village Lai Chi Wo, set out to conserve traditional knowledge while empowering both the local community and emerging artists. By immersing participants in the village’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, the programme focused on three core elements: Soil, Plant, and Sound. Guided by our staff and experienced mentors, artists explored the landscape, engaged with villagers, and rediscovered traditional crafts. They then translated their insight first in an Open House in Lai Chi Wo, and later in an 8-day exhibition in Central, Hong Kong.  The impact has been profound. Artists not only developed their creativity and traditional craft skills but also acted as bridges between rural wisdom and urban audiences. Activities included interactive workshops with social NGOs. These interactions brought Hakka heritage to life, making it accessible and relevant to a wider public.  Importantly, the project demonstrated the university's effectiveness as a connector, linking academic research, community trainers, and the rural context. The incubation model piloted here highlights how universities can help foster sustainable urban-rural partnerships, positioning villages like Lai Chi Wo as living laboratories for creative, co-created revitalisation.